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Alabama State Service Dog Laws
This is a summarized version of state laws regarding service dogs in Alabama. Please refer to the full statutes for detailed information
Public Accommodation
Any person or entity that operates a public place shall not discriminate against individuals with disabilities who use service animals if the work or tasks performed by the service animal are directly related to the individual's disability. (Violation: Class 2 Misdemeanor)
Law has exception for zoos or wild animal parks where service animals may come into direct contact with the animals.
SDiT Access
Service dogs in training have equal access to public places as trained service dogs
Trainer or person with a disability can handle a SDiT
Definitions
Alabama only recognizes dogs and miniature horses as service animals
Harassment or Interference
It is unlawful for a person who has received notice that his or her behavior is harassing to a dog the person knows or has reason to believe is a service dog to continue that behavior with malice or reckless disregard. (Class C Misdemeanor)
It is unlawful for a person with reckless disregard to allow his or her dog that is not contained by a fence, a leash, or other containment system to harass a service dog. (Class C Misdemeanor)
Health Codes
No animals of any kind shall be allowed in body art facility except service animals used by persons with disabilities shall be allowed. Fish aquariums may be allowed in waiting rooms and non procedural areas.
Misrepresentation/ Service Dog Fraud
A person who knowingly and willfully misrepresents himself or herself, through conduct or verbal or written notice, as using a service animal and being qualified to use a service animal or as a trainer of a service animal is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor, and in addition to any fines and penalties provided by law, shall perform 100 hours of community service for an organization that serves individuals with disabilities, or for another entity or organization, at the discretion of the court, to be completed in not more than six months.
A person convicted of a second or subsequent violation of subsection (h) shall be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor and shall be fined one hundred dollars.