Definitions

Under Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 106.52), a service animal is defined as a dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to perform tasks or do work for a person with a disability. The tasks performed must be directly related to the individual’s disability. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals under Wisconsin law or the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Wis. Stat. § 106.52 – Definition of Service Animal

Service Dog in Training Rights

Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 106.52(3)(am)) provides that service animals in training are allowed in public accommodations when accompanied by a trainer or a person with a disability responsible for their training.

Wis. Stat. § 106.52(3)(am) – Service Dog in Training Rights

Access Rights

Under Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 106.52), individuals with disabilities accompanied by service animals have full and equal access to all public places, including restaurants, hotels, public transportation, and housing. Businesses cannot charge additional fees for service animals or require proof of certification or training.

Wis. Stat. § 106.52 – Access Rights for Individuals with Service Animals

Harassment, Interference, or Injury to Service Dogs

Under Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 951.095), it is illegal to harm, harass, or interfere with a service animal. Individuals who harm a service animal may face criminal charges and be required to pay for damages, including veterinary care, retraining, or replacement of the service animal.

Wis. Stat. § 951.095 – Protection Against Harm to Service Animals

Driving Law

Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 346.24) requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians with service animals when crossing streets or intersections. Failure to yield may result in fines and other penalties.

Wis. Stat. § 346.24 – Pedestrian Right of Way

Licensing Law

Service animals in Wisconsin must be licensed in the same manner as other dogs. Many local jurisdictions may waive licensing fees for service animals. Individuals should check with their local city or county clerk for specific licensing requirements and fee exemptions.

Wis. Stat. § 174.07 – Dog Licensing

Misrepresentation of a Service Animal

Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 106.52(3)(am)3) makes it illegal to misrepresent a pet as a service animal. Individuals who falsely claim their pet is a service animal to gain access to public places or avoid fees may face penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 for each offense.

Wis. Stat. § 106.52(3)(am)3 – Misrepresentation of a Service Animal

Resources

Disability Rights Wisconsin
Disability Rights Wisconsin provides advocacy and resources for individuals with disabilities, including information about service animal access rights and protections.

https://disabilityrightswi.org

Enforcement

Individuals who believe their service animal access rights have been violated can file a complaint with:

• The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development – Equal Rights Division within 300 days of the incident.
• The U.S. Department of Justice within 180 days of the discriminatory act.