How to Get an ESA Letter in Arkansas
If you live in Arkansas and rely on an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), the right paperwork can make all the difference. A valid ESA letter lets you keep your emotional support animal in housing that normally doesn’t allow pets and avoid paying extra pet deposits or monthly pet rent.
Arkansas follows the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), which means landlords must make reasonable accommodations for your ESA if you provide a letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). In this guide, you’ll learn how to get an ESA letter in Arkansas, the housing protections it gives you, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
Why an ESA Letter Is Important in Arkansas
An ESA letter is your proof that your animal is more than a pet—it provides emotional support for a mental health condition. In Arkansas, a valid ESA letter allows you to:
Live with your ESA in no‑pet housing
Skip pet deposits and monthly pet fees
Ask for housing accommodations with confidence
Just keep in mind: Emotional support animals don’t get public access rights in Arkansas. You can’t bring them into stores or restaurants unless the business is pet‑friendly.
Arkansas ESA Housing Laws
Under the FHA, Arkansas landlords must:
Allow ESAs in most rental housing
Waive pet deposits and pet rent for ESAs
Only deny if the animal poses a direct threat or causes major property damage
Arkansas ESA FAQ
Q1: Are ESA letters legal in Arkansas?
Yes. ESA letters are valid under the Fair Housing Act, and Arkansas landlords must honor them.
Q2: Can landlords charge pet fees for ESAs in Arkansas?
No. Emotional support animals aren’t considered pets, so no pet deposits or rent apply.
Q3: Can I take my ESA into stores or restaurants in Arkansas?
No. ESAs don’t have public access rights—your protection is for housing only.
Q4: Does my ESA letter need to be from an Arkansas therapist?
Yes. To ensure acceptance, your letter should come from a licensed Arkansas LMHP.
Q5: How long does an ESA letter last in Arkansas?
Most landlords require a letter dated within 12 months, so renew annually.