Question and Answer Regarding Service Animals


Question: May a prospective purchaser bring a support animal into an open house?

Answer: Probably. Unless there is a compelling reason why a buyer cannot bring a service animal into an open house, the seller should probably permit it to prevent discrimination claims. A compelling reason may be a seller having a severe allergy to animals. If such reason exists, it is recommended that a seller speak with their attorney regarding prohibiting such animals.

-Shannon B. Jones, Partner, sbj@sbj-law.com

Danville Office

208 W. El Pintado Road

Danville, CA 94526

Tel: 925.837.2317

San Jose Office

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San Jose, CA 95113

Tel: 408.363.3635

Sacramento Office

770 L Street, Suite 950

Sacramento, CA 95814

Tel: 916.368.1000