How to Get an ESA Letter in Arizona
Having an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in Arizona can make everyday life calmer and more manageable—but only if you have the right paperwork. A valid ESA letter is what lets you live with your support animal in no‑pet housing and avoid pet rent or deposits.
In Arizona, your housing rights are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). This federal law requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for ESAs as long as you provide a letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). Below, we’ll walk through how to get an ESA letter in Arizona, common mistakes to avoid, and the state-specific laws you should know.
Why Arizona Residents Need an ESA Letter
An ESA letter is your official proof that your animal provides emotional support for a qualifying mental health condition. With a valid letter in Arizona, you can:
Live with your ESA in apartments or condos with no‑pet policies
Avoid paying extra pet rent or deposits
Request housing accommodations confidently and legally
Just remember: ESAs in Arizona don’t get public access rights. They can’t go into stores, restaurants, or hotels unless the business is pet-friendly.
Arizona ESA Housing Laws and Protections
Under the FHA, landlords in Arizona must:
Allow your ESA in most rental properties, even with no‑pet policies
Waive pet fees and deposits for emotional support animals
Only deny requests if your ESA poses a danger or could cause significant property damage
Arizona ESA FAQ
Q1: Are ESA letters legal in Arizona?
Yes. ESA letters are valid under the Fair Housing Act, protecting your right to live with your support animal.
Q2: Can a landlord charge pet fees for an ESA in Arizona?
No. Emotional support animals are not pets, so no pet rent or deposits are allowed.
Q3: Can I take my ESA to public places in Arizona?
No. ESAs don’t have public access rights—housing protection only.
Q4: Does my ESA letter need to be from an Arizona provider?
Yes. Arizona landlords can reject letters from out‑of‑state providers.
Q5: How long does an ESA letter last in Arizona?
Most landlords prefer a letter dated within 12 months, so renew annually.