Definition of a service animal
According to the AODA's
Customer Service Standards , one of two conditions must apply for an animal to be considered a service animal:
- The animal can be readily identified as one that is being used by the person for reasons relating to the person's disability, example, as a result of visual indicators such as a vest or harness worn by the animal or;
- You can provide documentation from a regulated health professional confirming the animal is required due to a disability (a listing of the approved regulated health professionals can be found by clicking the Customer Service Standards link above).
All businesses licensed by the City of Toronto must provide service to individuals with a service animal or a guide dog, under the City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 545-5.
If service is refused, contact 311 to submit a service request.
The officer will educate the business owner of their responsibility to provided service. A $500.00 ticket can be issued. If the business owner refuses or is a recurring issue, a Part III ticket can be issued and dealt with by Provincial court.
Businesses licensed by the City can be found on the City of Toronto website.
If the business is not licensed by the City, then the following should occur:
- If this is a Human Rights inquiry or complaint about a private employer or service provider (e.g. employed by or receive discriminatory treatment in a restaurant or store) or if related to employment in, or services received from, the provincial government, please contact the:
- If the complaint is about the provision of services within federal jurisdiction or a federally regulated industry, such as a bank or in telecommunications, contact the Canadian Human Rights Commission .
