Lakeland Service Animal Rules for Public Facilities Clarified

Lakeland residents and visitors can bring service dogs into all city facilities, according to city guidelines. This policy allows individuals with disabilities to bring their service animals, even into facilities with general animal restrictions.

The guidelines, which align with the Americans with Disabilities Act, also permit miniature horses in certain situations. Public entities and businesses must allow individuals with disabilities to bring miniature horses if the animal has been trained to perform tasks for the person. However, organizations may assess accommodation based on the horse's type, size, and weight.

To determine if an animal qualifies as a service animal, city employees and businesses may ask only two questions: "Is the animal a service dog that's required because of a disability?" and "What work or task has the service dog been trained to perform?"

These questions are unnecessary if the need for the service animal is obvious, such as a dog guiding a visually impaired person or pulling a wheelchair. Businesses and public entities cannot ask about the nature or extent of a disability, demand documentation, require vests, or ask for a demonstration of the animal's trained task.

The city offers guidance for residents considering bringing a service animal or interacting with one. Do not pet, call to, or whistle at service dogs, as they are working and should not be distracted. Offering treats is also discouraged without the handler's permission.

Handlers must ensure their service dogs remain under control. Local vaccination and registration requirements apply to service dogs, and they must be housebroken and free of fleas and lice. City employees are not responsible for providing care for service animals, such as feeding, watering, or walking them.