Under federal disability laws, Emotional Support Animals (ESA) are NOT Service Animals and cannot be with an individual at all times. ESA fall under Fair Housing Act (FHA). Under the FHA, a housing provider MAY request reliable documentation of the disability itself and the disability-related need for the ESA. Online certification of an assistance animal alone does not establish either criteria.
- For more information see: US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Approval from DSS is required to bring an ESA to campus housing. Requests and ESA documentation should be submitted at least 60 days before the anticipated move-in date. Approval is not guaranteed.
- Morton Hall Housing Application: students are REQUIRED to complete the housing application with Morton Hall, which is a separate process. Questions should be directed to the Residence Hall Manager.
- ESA must be an animal commonly kept in households: dogs, cats, small birds, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, other rodents, fish (no more than 10-gallon tank), turtles, or other small, domesticated animals that are traditionally kept in the home. The following are not considered an ESA: reptiles (other than turtles), barnyard animals, monkeys, kangaroos, and other non-domesticated animals are not considered common household animals.
If approved by DSS, the ESA is allowed ONLY in the student's assigned dorm room and the residence hall's outdoor space for waste disposal as applicable. Students will be required to sing the ESA Liability Waiver Form with DSS if approved. ESA is NOT permitted in any common areas in housing (no exceptions). ESA accommodations must be requested every semester by completing the housing accommodation request eform in eTrieve.