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D.C. Municipal Regulations (Last Updated: September 13, 2017) |
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Title 14. HOUSING |
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Chapter 14-74. REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES |
Section 14-7409. SERVICE OR ASSISTANCE ANIMALS
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7409.1Residents of DCHA with disabilities are permitted to have service animals, if such animals are necessary as a reasonable accommodation for their disabilities. DCHA residents, or potential residents, who need a service animal as a reasonable accommodation must request the accommodation in accordance with the reasonable accommodation policy set forth in this Chapter.
7409.2Residents who have a service animal residing with them at any DCHA-owned property prior to May 1, 2005, must file a request for a reasonable accommodation and otherwise comply with the requirements in this Chapter prior to July 1, 2005.
7409.3Residents at any DCHA-owned property who are approved to have a service animal as a reasonable accommodation may keep the animal provided they comply with the following requirements:
(a)Register the animal with the property manager;
(b)Update the registration for the animal annually;
(c)Provide proof the animal has been inoculated in accordance with applicable local law;
(d)Execute a lease addendum providing for the proper care and maintenance of the animal and the unit occupied by the animal in accordance with the DCHA rules; and
(e)Continuously provide the proper maintenance and care for the animal and assure that the animal does not otherwise impair the peaceful enjoyment of the property by other residents.
7409.4DCHA requires that a resident or prospective resident with a service animal provide written certification:
(a)From a third party, such as a health care provider, that the resident or a member of his or her family is a person with a disability and that an animal of the type proposed is reasonably necessary to meet the needs of the disabled person; and
(b)From a third party knowledgeable about the service animal, such as a trainer or veterinarian, that:
(i)The animal has the capability and individualized training, where necessary, such as for a seeing Eye dog, to work for the benefit of the person with a disability;
(ii)The animal is a domesticated animal and does not pose a risk of serious bites or lacerations, nor is the animal considered to be dangerous, aggressive, vicious, intimidating or detrimental to the health and safety of other residents or employees.