Service Dogs in Training Laws in Oregon
Overview

Oregon law provides public access protections for service dogs in training (SDITs), allowing qualified trainers and individuals with disabilities to bring dogs in training into many public places.

Unlike federal law under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which does not specifically grant public access rights to service animals in training, Oregon law explicitly recognizes service animals in training under state disability access statutes.

Legal Foundation

Oregon’s service animal and SDIT laws are primarily found in:

• Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) § 659A.143

• Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) § 346.680

• Oregon Administrative Rules and related disability access provisions

These laws protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and certain trainers using service animals or service animals in training.

Service Dogs in Training Under Oregon Law

Oregon law allows:

• A person with a disability training their own service dog, or

• A trainer affiliated with or authorized by a service animal training program

to take a service dog in training into places open to the public for training purposes.

Oregon recognizes service animals in training as a distinct legal category even before the dog is fully trained.

Public Access Rights

Service dogs in training may generally accompany trainers or handlers into public accommodations, including:

• Restaurants and food establishments

• Retail stores and shopping centers

• Hotels and lodging

• Public transportation

• Medical offices and hospitals

• Government buildings

• Any place open to the public

These rights are similar to those granted to fully trained service animals under Oregon disability access laws.

Additionally:

• Businesses may not charge extra fees or deposits for a service dog or service dog in training.

• SDITs are generally treated similarly to fully trained service animals when properly handled.

Requirements for Service Dogs in Training

Oregon law requires service dogs in training to be:

• Under the control of the handler or trainer

• Harnessed, leashed, or tethered unless doing so interferes with training or the dog’s work

• Behaving appropriately in public

Unlike some states, Oregon does not generally require a state-issued license, vest, or identification card for service dogs in training.

Who Can Train a Service Dog

Oregon law generally protects:

• Individuals with disabilities training their own dog

• Trainers working with recognized service dog training organizations

• Persons involved in legitimate service dog training activities

The statutes do not impose a universal certification requirement for all service dog trainers.

Handler Responsibilities

The handler or trainer is responsible for:

• Maintaining control of the dog

• Preventing disruptive or dangerous behavior

• Ensuring the dog is housebroken

• Paying for any damage caused by the dog

A business may require removal of the dog if:

• The dog is out of control

• The dog poses a direct threat to health or safety

• The dog is not housebroken

What Businesses Can and Cannot Do

Businesses MAY:

• Ask whether the dog is a service animal or service animal in training

• Ask what work or tasks the dog is being trained to perform

Businesses MAY NOT:

• Require proof of certification or registration

• Demand special identification documents

• Charge additional fees or deposits

• Deny access solely because the dog is still in training under Oregon law

Misrepresentation and Interference

Oregon law prohibits certain forms of interference with service animal access rights.

Fraudulently misrepresenting a pet as a service animal may also create legal consequences under Oregon law, including potential civil penalties or violations of public accommodation laws.

Federal vs. Oregon Law

ADA (federal law):

• Does not specifically grant public access rights to service dogs in training

Oregon law:

• Explicitly recognizes and protects certain public access rights for SDITs

Because Oregon law provides broader protections than federal law in this area, those state protections generally apply within Oregon.

Summary

• Oregon allows service dogs in training in many public places

• Individuals with disabilities and qualified trainers are both protected

• SDITs must remain under control and behave appropriately

• Oregon generally does not require certification or identification for SDITs

• Businesses cannot charge fees or deny access solely because a dog is in training

• Handlers are responsible for damages and behavior

Sources

Oregon Revised Statutes § 659A.143:
https://www.oregonlegislature.gov

Oregon Revised Statutes § 346.680:
https://www.oregonlegislature.gov

Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI):
https://www.oregon.gov/boli

Disclaimer

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change, and their application can vary depending on specific circumstances. For the most current and accurate information, consult official Oregon statutes or a qualified attorney.

Service Dogs in Training Laws in the State of Oregon are Recognized!