South Carolina service dog laws
South Carolina protects service animal handlers through Title 43, Chapter 33 and Title 47, Chapter 3, Article 15 of its code, both of which sit alongside the ADA. Section 43-33-20 gives a person with a disability the right to bring an assistance dog into transportation, lodging and places of public accommodation at no extra charge, and state law limits service animals to dogs and miniature horses.
- Section 43-33-20(d) gives people training assistance or guide dogs similar access, and the trainer is liable for damage the dog causes.
- Knowingly passing off a non-service animal as a service animal brings civil fines under 47-3-980: up to $250, then $500, then $1,000 for later offenses.
- Section 43-33-70 entitles a tenant with an assistance dog to full and equal access to covered housing without extra rent or fees for the dog.
- Denying or interfering with a handler's access under 43-33-20 is a misdemeanor that can carry a fine, up to three years in prison or both.
Source: S.C. Code Title 43, Chapter 33
How a PSD letter differs from an ESA letter
Psychiatric service dog
Trained to perform specific tasks. Can go into stores, restaurants and the airplane cabin with you.
Emotional support animal
Helps through companionship, with no task training. Covered for housing only. See the South Carolina ESA letter.
How to get a PSD letter in South Carolina
Book a time
Choose a phone or video slot and tell us about your dog and the tasks it performs.
Talk with a clinician
A licensed clinician reviews your symptoms and how the dog's training helps you.
Your signed letter arrives
If approved, your signed letter is emailed as a PDF. If not, you are not charged.
South Carolina PSD letter cost
| Letter | Covers | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PSD letter | One or two dogs | $149 |
| PSD letter | 3 dogs | $229 |
Booking is free and you're charged only if your letter is approved.
Service dog housing rights in South Carolina
If a landlord refuses a service dog, ask for the decision in writing, then contact the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission or file a complaint with HUD.
