Renting with an ESA in Shreveport
Shreveport's housing is older and largely single-family, with bungalows and cottages in Highland, South Highlands and Broadmoor, and apartment complexes scattered toward the south side. Barksdale Air Force Base across the river in Bossier City brings military renters into the area. Many landlords own a handful of houses and manage them personally. Louisiana has its own law on assistance animal documentation in housing, so a clear letter that ties the animal to your disability is worth having.
Neighborhoods we often hear from
- Highland
- South Highlands
- Broadmoor
- Downtown
- Queensborough
- Southern Hills
Louisiana ESA laws for Shreveport renters
Louisiana tightened its rules in 2024 with Act 558, now codified at La. R.S. 46:1973 through 46:1978, which covers support animals in housing. The biggest change is timing: a provider has to establish a therapeutic relationship and complete a clinical evaluation at least thirty days before writing your documentation, after at least two sessions. Plan for that before you sign a lease.
- Under R.S. 46:1974, the provider needs an active Louisiana license, or one under a licensure compact, and must be qualified to diagnose disabilities.
- The two required sessions may be in person or remote, and the documentation must show its effective date, license number and license type.
- Misrepresenting a disability or need for a support animal draws fines of up to $500, then $1,000, then $2,500 for repeat offenses (R.S. 46:1977).
Source: La. R.S. 46:1974 (via Justia)
Your Shreveport ESA letter, step by step
Book a time
Pick a phone or video slot online and answer a short questionnaire about how you are feeling and the animal you live with in Shreveport.
Talk with a licensed clinician
A licensed clinician spends about 5–10 minutes with you and decides whether an emotional support animal is part of your care.
Follow Louisiana's documentation rules
Louisiana law adds requirements before a letter counts, such as a minimum treatment relationship, an in-person visit or a clinician licensed in the state. The clinician explains what applies to you and when the letter can be issued.
Your signed letter arrives
Once the state's requirements are met and the clinician approves, the letter is emailed as a PDF with their license details. You pay only if it is approved.
Shreveport ESA letter cost
| Letter | Covers | Price |
|---|---|---|
| ESA letter | Up to 2 animals | $129 |
| ESA letter | 3 or more animals | $199 |
Booking is free and you're charged only if your letter is approved.