For many Floridians living with emotional or psychological disabilities, an emotional support animal (ESA) is more than a pet—it’s a lifeline. ESAs provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and help alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions. However, without a valid ESA letter in Florida, tenants often face barriers when seeking housing, such as extra pet deposits or outright restrictions.
A legitimate Florida ESA letter grants tenants housing protections under both federal and state laws. While emotional support animals don’t have the same access as service animals in public places, they are recognized under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Florida statutes, giving their owners the right to live with them without discrimination.
Emotional Support Animal Housing Rights in Florida
Under Florida ESA laws, landlords cannot deny housing or charge additional pet fees to tenants who present a valid ESA letter. Even if a property has a “no pets” policy, individuals with a legitimate need for an ESA are entitled to reasonable accommodation.
That said, exceptions do apply. A landlord may reject an ESA request if:
The animal poses a direct threat to other tenants’ health or safety.
The ESA is likely to cause significant property damage.
ESA owners are responsible for any damage their animal causes. Additionally, while landlords may not ask invasive questions about a tenant’s disability or demand medical records, they are allowed to request proof that the animal complies with state and local licensing and vaccination requirements.
What is an ESA Letter in Florida?
An ESA letter in Florida is a legal document written by a licensed healthcare professional. It verifies that the individual has a qualifying mental or emotional disability and benefits from the presence of an emotional support animal.
To be valid, the letter must:
Be signed and dated by a Florida-licensed provider.
Include the provider’s license number and contact details.
Clearly state the tenant’s need for an ESA.
Eligible professionals who can issue ESA letters include:
Physicians
Psychologists
Psychiatrists
Licensed therapists and counselors
Social workers
Nurses
Telehealth services are also recognized, meaning you can obtain an ESA letter online in Florida through a virtual appointment with a licensed provider.
Who Qualifies for an ESA Letter in Florida?
ESA letters are typically granted to individuals with mental health conditions that limit one or more major life activities. Examples of qualifying conditions include:
Anxiety and panic disorders
Depression
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Phobias
Personality disorders
Cognitive and learning disorders
Each ESA must have its own letter, even if an owner has more than one support animal. Only a licensed professional can determine whether someone qualifies.
ESA Laws in Florida
Florida passed updated laws on emotional support animals on July 1, 2020. These regulations were designed to reduce fraudulent ESA claims and clarify the rights of tenants and landlords.
Key points include:
ESAs do not need special training to qualify.
Landlords cannot request proof of training or certification.
Only a valid ESA letter from a licensed healthcare provider is legally recognized.
Fake ESA letters or attempting to pass a pet off as a service animal is considered a misdemeanor offense.
Importantly, landlords cannot create unnecessary hurdles, such as demanding notarized forms, as long as a legitimate ESA letter is provided.
How to Get an ESA Letter in Florida
If you need an ESA letter in Florida, the process is straightforward. You must connect with a licensed healthcare professional—either in person or through an online ESA service. After an evaluation, the provider will determine whether you qualify and issue your ESA letter.
With this letter, you are protected under federal and state law, ensuring your right to live with your emotional support animal without paying extra fees or facing discrimination.
