Minnesota § 609.833 - MISREPRESENTATION OF SERVICE ANIMAL
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 609.833 — MISREPRESENTATION OF SERVICE ANIMAL, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 609.833. MISREPRESENTATION OF SERVICE ANIMAL
Subdivision 1.Definitions.
As used in this section:
(1) "place of public accommodation" has the meaning given in section 363A.03, subdivision 34; and
(2) "service animal" has the meaning given in Code of Federal Regulations, title 28, section 36.104, as amended through March 1, 2018.
Subd. 2.Prohibited conduct.
A person may not, directly or indirectly through statements or conduct, intentionally misrepresent an animal in that person's possession as a service animal in any place of public accommodation to obtain any rights or privileges available to a person who qualifies for a service animal under state or federal law knowing that the person is not entitled to those rights or privileges.
Subd. 3.Penalty.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), a person who violates subdivision 2 is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.
(b) A person who violates subdivision 2 a second or subsequent time is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Subd. 4.Notice.
(a) A conspicuous sign may be posted in a location accessible to public view in a place of public accommodation that contains the following, or substantially similar, language:
"NOTICE
Service Animals Welcome. It is illegal for a person to misrepresent an animal in that person's possession as a service animal."
(b) The Council on Disability may prepare and make available to businesses a brochure detailing permissible questions a business owner may ask to determine whether an animal is a service animal, proper answers to those questions, and guidelines defining unacceptable behavior.
History:
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Source: official Minnesota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 609.833
What does Minnesota Statutes § 609.833 cover?
Section 609.833 ("MISREPRESENTATION OF SERVICE ANIMAL") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 609.833?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 609.833" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 609.833 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.