Service Dogs in Training Laws in Utah
Overview

Utah law provides public access protections for service dogs in training (SDITs), allowing 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, Utah law expressly includes dogs “in training” within the state definition of a service animal.

Legal Foundation

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

• Utah Code § 62A-5b-102

• Utah Code § 62A-5b-103

• Utah Code § 62A-5b-104

• Utah Code § 62A-5b-106

• Utah Code § 76-9-307

These laws protect individuals with disabilities and service animal trainers from discrimination in places of public accommodation.

Service Dogs in Training Under Utah Law

Utah law specifically defines a service animal as a dog that:

“is trained, or is in training, to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.”

This means Utah expressly recognizes service dogs in training under state law.

Utah allows:

• Individuals with disabilities training their own dog

• Professional service dog trainers

• Persons legitimately training service dogs

to bring SDITs into public places for training purposes.

Public Access Rights

Service dogs in training may generally accompany handlers and trainers into places open to the public, including:

• Restaurants and food establishments

• Retail stores and shopping centers

• Hotels and lodging

• Public transportation

• Hospitals and medical offices

• Government buildings

• Most places open to the general public

Utah law grants SDITs substantially similar public access rights as fully trained service animals.

Additionally:

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

Requirements for Service Dogs in Training

Utah generally requires service dogs in training to be:

• Under the handler’s control

• Properly behaved in public

• Housebroken

• Non-disruptive and safe

Utah follows ADA-style control standards requiring service animals to remain effectively controlled through leash, harness, tether, voice, or signals when appropriate.

Utah does not generally require:

• State certification

• Registration

• Identification cards

• Special vests or patches

Businesses generally may not require proof of certification or documentation.

Who Can Train a Service Dog

Utah law protects:

• Individuals with disabilities training their own dog

• Professional service dog trainers

• Persons training service dogs for disability-related work or tasks

Utah law does not require professional certification 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 damage caused by the dog

A business may require removal of the dog if:

• The dog is out of control and the handler fails to correct it

• The dog poses a legitimate safety threat

• The dog is not housebroken

Even if a dog is removed, the business generally must still allow the individual to obtain goods or services without the animal present.

What Businesses Can and Cannot Do

Businesses MAY:

• Ask whether the dog is required because of a disability

• Ask what work or task the dog has been trained — or is being trained — to perform

Businesses MAY NOT:

• Require certification or registration

• Demand proof of disability

• Require the dog to demonstrate tasks

• Charge additional fees or deposits

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

Misrepresentation and Interference

Utah law prohibits:

• Fraudulently misrepresenting a pet as a service animal

• Harassing or interfering with a service animal

• Allowing another animal to attack or harass a service animal

Under Utah Code § 62A-5b-106:

• Fraudulent representation of a service animal is a Class B misdemeanor and may result in fines up to $500.

Under Utah Code § 76-9-307:

• Harassing or injuring a service animal may result in criminal penalties, restitution, and civil liability.

Federal vs. Utah Law

ADA (federal law):

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

Utah law:

• Explicitly includes dogs “in training” within the state definition of a service animal

Because Utah law provides broader protections in this area, those state protections generally apply within Utah.

Summary

• Utah allows service dogs in training in many public places

• Trainers and individuals with disabilities are protected

• SDITs must remain under control and behave appropriately

• Utah generally does not require certification or identification for SDITs

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

• Fraudulent representation and interference may result in misdemeanor penalties

Sources

Utah Legislature – Service Animal Statutes:
https://le.utah.gov

Utah Code § 62A-5b-102 through § 62A-5b-106:
https://le.utah.gov

Nolo – Utah Laws on Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals:
https://www.nolo.com

Animal Legal & Historical Center – Utah Assistance Animal Laws:
https://www.animallaw.info

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 Utah statutes or a qualified attorney.

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