5771.1 Participants in DCHA programs, including RAD/PBV projects, with disabilities are permitted to have service animals, if such animals are necessary as a reasonable accommodation for their disabilities. RAD/PBV participants or applicants, who need a service animal as a reasonable accommodation must request the accommodation in accordance with the reasonable accommodation policy set forth in this chapter.

5771.2 Participants at any PBV/RAD property who are approved to have a service animal as a reasonable accommodation may keep the animal provided they comply with the following requirements:

1. (a) Register the animal with the property manager;
2. (b) Update the registration for the animal annually;
3. (c) Provide proof the animal has been vaccinated in accordance with applicable local law;
4. (d) Execute a lease addendum providing for the proper care and maintenance of the animal and the unit occupied by the animal in accordance with the RAD/PBV project rules; and
5. (e) Continuously provide the proper maintenance and care for the animal and assure that the animal does not otherwise impair the peaceful enjoyment of the property by other residents.

5771.3 DCHA requires that a PBV/RAD participant or applicant with a service animal provide written certification:

1. (a) From a third party, such as a health care provider, that the participant or a member of his or her family is a person with a disability and that an animal of the type proposed is reasonably necessary to meet the needs of the person with disabilities; and
2. (b) From a third party knowledgeable about the service animal, such as a trainer or veterinarian, that:
3. (i) The animal has the capability and individualized training, where necessary, such as for a Seeing Eye dog, to work for the benefit of the person with a disability;
4. (ii) The animal is a domesticated animal and does not pose a risk of

serious bites or lacerations.

SOURCE: Final Rulemaking at 64 DCR 12956 (December 22, 2017).