Can Landlords Refuse Emotional Support Animals in Nova Scotia?

If you’re renting in Nova Scotia and rely on an emotional support animal (ESA), you may wonder if your landlord can refuse your companion. Understanding your rights is essential to ensure you aren’t facing discrimination and to know the process for requesting an ESA accommodation. This guide will walk tenants through Nova Scotia’s rules, required forms, and where to seek help if disagreements arise.

Emotional Support Animals and Tenant Rights in Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, discrimination in housing is illegal under both provincial and federal laws. Landlords generally cannot deny a tenant’s legitimate need for an emotional support animal if it is related to a disability. This rule applies even in "no pets" buildings or clauses. The main legislation governing these protections is the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) and the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.^1,2

What Counts as an Emotional Support Animal?

Emotional support animals are not the same as service animals but can be critical for mental health support. ESAs help with conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD, as verified by a regulated health professional.

Can My Landlord Say No?

Landlords in Nova Scotia must accommodate tenants with disabilities, including permitting ESAs, unless allowing the animal would cause the landlord or other tenants undue hardship — for example, severe allergies or demonstrated safety risks. These cases are rare, and landlords must provide substantial evidence if refusing the accommodation.

How to Request Accommodation for an Emotional Support Animal

Tenants should formally notify their landlord that they require an ESA as a disability-related accommodation. A written letter from a regulated health professional (such as a physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist) is usually required. The letter should:

• State that you have a disability as defined by law
• Confirm your need for the animal as part of your treatment or support plan
• Not be required to disclose your specific diagnosis

If your landlord refuses after you provide all required information, you may file a complaint with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission or contact the Residential Tenancies Program.

When Can a Landlord Refuse an Emotional Support Animal?

The only time a landlord may lawfully deny an ESA is if:

• Allowing the animal would cause undue hardship (e.g., severe allergies documented in the building, genuine safety risks)
• The request is not supported by appropriate medical documentation
• The animal poses a threat or causes serious damage despite reasonable precautions

Each case is considered individually, and "no pets" clauses do not override your human rights.

Documentation and Forms: What You Need

While there is no official Nova Scotia government “ESA form,” the process generally involves:

• A Letter from a Regulated Health Professional (doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist)
  • Confirming you have a disability and need an ESA for support (but not your diagnosis)
• Written accommodation request to your landlord stating your need and providing the letter

If the landlord disputes or refuses, you can apply to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission Complaint Form:
Complaint Form (PDF).
When to use it: If your human rights are violated, such as a landlord refusing an ESA despite complete documentation, complete the form and submit it as described by the Commission. This can begin an investigation and mediation process.

Other Relevant Rights and Responsibilities

Tenants must still ensure their animal does not create excessive noise, mess, or safety hazards. Accommodations do not exempt you from normal tenancy obligations. For more about your general obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For a full overview of provincial tenant rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

Looking for a new rental home that welcomes pets or emotional support animals? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca easily with search filters designed for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord charge extra fees or a pet deposit for my emotional support animal?
   No. In Nova Scotia, landlords cannot require extra fees or deposits solely because you have an ESA needed for a disability.
2. What if my landlord claims allergies or other tenants complain?
   Landlords must show real, significant hardship—such as a documented severe allergy—before denying your ESA. Most complaints alone are not enough to justify refusal.
3. Do I have to disclose my medical diagnosis to get approval?
   No, you don’t have to share your medical diagnosis. You only need a qualified health professional to confirm you have a disability and require the ESA.
4. Is there an approved list of emotional support animals?
   No, but your animal should be reasonable for the living situation and not pose a safety risk or excessive hardship to others.
5. How do I file a human rights complaint if I’m denied?
   Complete the Nova Scotia Human Rights Complaint Form and submit as instructed on the Commission website.

Key Takeaways for Nova Scotia Tenants

• Landlords can rarely refuse an emotional support animal if you provide proper medical evidence.
• Your rights are protected by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act and Residential Tenancies Act.
• Tenants must ensure their ESA does not disrupt the property or others’ enjoyment.
• If refused unfairly, file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission or seek advocacy help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission: Call 1-877-269-7699
• Residential Tenancies Program (Service Nova Scotia): 1-800-670-4357
• Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia: 1-800-665-9779
• Local tenant support agencies and advocates

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
2. Nova Scotia Human Rights Act

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