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The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) does not issue service dog tags. However, all service dogs in New York City must have a valid dog license issued by DOHMH. There are no other licenses or permits required for service dogs.

The American Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other dog trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. The ADA does not require state or local certification for service dogs. Business owners must abide by the requirements of the ADA with respect to service dogs and allow access to their establishments or facilities regardless of whether the dog is wearing a service tag or not.

Businesses open to the public, including restaurants, may not demand any proof of disability or service animal certification.

Emotional support dogs or other animals are not considered service animals.

Online

Download a flyer in English and Spanish with more information about service dogs and access to businesses.

By Phone

Call 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) for assistance.

An emotional support animal is an animal that provides relief to people with psychiatric disability through companionship.

Emotional support animals may be any type of pet, and are not recognized as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Business owners do not need to allow access of emotional support animals to their establishments. 

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