Tennessee’s Laws & Regulations for Assistance Animals are as follows:
Acceptance
Housing
Tennessee landlords must comply with the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), which protects ESAs, PSAs, and Service Animals when proper documentation is provided. Tennessee’s housing discrimination laws also support reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Air Travel
Tennessee follows the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Only trained service dogs may fly as Service Animals. ESAs must follow airline pet rules. DOT forms may be required at Nashville International (BNA), Memphis International (MEM), Knoxville (TYS), and regional airports.
Public Access
Tennessee follows the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state law under TCA § 62-7-112. Only trained Service Dogs—including psychiatric service dogs—must be allowed in restaurants, hotels, stores, medical facilities, public transit, schools, and government buildings. ESAs do NOT have public-access rights.
Additional Notes
- ADA: Only task-trained dogs qualify as Service Animals.
- ACAA: Airlines accept only trained Service Dogs for in-cabin travel.
- FHA & Tennessee housing law: ESAs, PSAs, and Service Animals qualify for housing accommodations.
- Misrepresentation penalties: Tennessee imposes fines for fraudulent Service Animal claims.
- Recognition Gear: Strongly recommended in rural regions and small municipalities.
Applicable Laws
Emotional Support Animals (ESA):
Protected for housing under FHA and Tennessee anti-discrimination law; no public-access rights.
Psychiatric Support Animals (PSA):
Recognized as Service Animals only when task-trained.
Service Animals:
Recognized under ADA, ACAA, FHA, and Tennessee Code § 62-7-112.