What Minnesota’s New Service Dog Law Means for Property Managers (Signed May 8, 2025)

Published by Bullseye Property Management & Realty

Big News for Property Owners: Minnesota Service Dog Law Update 

On May 8, 2025, Governor Tim Walz signed new legislation strengthening protections and procedures around service animals in rental housing. This law has immediate implications for landlords, tenants, and property managers across the state. 

At Bullseye Property Management & Realty, we stay ahead of legal changes, so our owners don’t have to worry about compliance issues. Here’s what you need to know: 

Key Takeaways from the New Law 

1. Clearer Definition of Service Animals 
   The law reinforces that only dogs (and in some cases, miniature horses) that are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities qualify as service animals under housing law. 
2. Ban on Fake Service Animals 
   It is now a misdemeanor offense to knowingly misrepresent a pet as a service animal. This gives property managers stronger legal footing to address false claims. 
3. Documentation Protocols 
   Landlords can still ask two key questions:
   • Is this a service animal required because of a disability? 
   • What work or task has the dog been trained to perform? Property owners cannot request medical records or demand proof of certification. 
4. No Additional Pet Fees 
   As before, legitimate service animals are not subject to pet deposits or pet rent. However, they must be under control and cannot pose a direct threat to others or the property. 
5. Clarified Eviction Protocols 
   The law outlines clearer processes for dealing with service animals that cause damage or disruptions, helping protect landlords from abuse of the system.

Bullseye’s Approach: Proactive, Compliant, Fair 

We educate both owners and tenants on the law to avoid misunderstandings before they become problems. Here’s how we handle it: 

• Updated Lease Language that reflects the new law’s language 
• Staff Training to ensure every Bullseye manager asks the right questions 
• Respectful Screening that protects tenant rights and owner investments 

As always, our goal is to create equitable housing while safeguarding property performance. 

What Property Owners Should Do Now 

• Review and update lease agreements with our team 
• Ensure staff or self-managed reps know what questions are legally allowed 
• Remove any outdated pet or service animal policy language
• Consult Bullseye if unsure about specific tenant situations

Final Word 

This law is a win for accessibility and a step forward in preventing system abuse. With the right strategy, you can stay compliant and protect your investment. 

Have questions about how this affects your rental property? 

Contact Bullseye Property Management & Realty today for a legal-safe lease review or policy audit. 

#MinnesotaPropertyLaw #ServiceAnimalPolicy #BullseyePM #PropertyManagementCompliance #AccessibleHousing