Renting with an ESA in Portland
Portland's rentals include old Victorians and foursquares split into apartments plus newer buildings along corridors like Division Street and in the Pearl District. Oregon's tenant laws are among the more protective in the country, and many local landlords are used to receiving written accommodation requests. In older houses, shared yards and basements tend to prompt questions about where an animal will spend its time. If you move between neighborhoods often, keep a current copy of your letter ready for each new application.
Neighborhoods we often hear from
- Pearl District
- Alberta Arts District
- Sellwood-Moreland
- Hawthorne
- St. Johns
- Montavilla
Oregon ESA laws for Portland renters
Oregon has no statute aimed specifically at emotional support animals. You request one as a reasonable accommodation under the federal Fair Housing Act and ORS 659A.145, which bars refusing reasonable changes to rules, policies or services that a person with a disability may need to use and enjoy a dwelling. A letter from your clinician documents why the animal matters for you.
- The Bureau of Labor and Industries investigates fair housing complaints in Oregon, and filing one is free and does not require a lawyer.
- ORS 659A.145 also covers prices and rental terms, so a landlord cannot set different conditions for you because of a disability.
- Oregon's separate assistance animal law, ORS 659A.143, deals with trained animals in public places, so ESA housing questions are decided under fair housing law.
Source: Oregon Revised Statutes chapter 659A (see ORS 659A.145)
Your Portland 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 Portland.
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.
Get your signed letter
If the clinician approves, your letter is emailed to you as a PDF with their license details. If not, you are not charged.
Share it with your housing provider
Send the letter with a short reasonable accommodation request. Keep copies of everything you send and receive.
Portland 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.