This handout provides clear information based on Illinois state law to help service dog trainers understand their public access rights when working with dogs in training. These rights go beyond federal ADA protections, which do not cover animals in training.

Key Illinois Laws Protecting Trainers:

Illinois grants trainers strong public access rights through two main statutes-

Service Animal Access Act (720 ILCS 5/48-8)

This law states that a trainer of a service animal accompanied by a service animal (trained or being trained) cannot be denied entry or use of any public place of accommodation. 

Definition of service animal: A dog or miniature horse trained or being trained as a hearing animal, guide animal, assistance animal, seizure alert animal, mobility animal, psychiatric service animal, autism service animal, or for any other physical, mental, or intellectual disability. Violation is a Class C misdemeanor.

White Cane Law (775 ILCS 30)

This law gives trainers of support dogs, guide dogs, seizure-alert dogs, seizure-response dogs, or hearing dogs the right to be accompanied by a dog that is being trained for these purposes in public places without extra charges. 

The trainer is liable for any damage caused by the dog.

Violation is a Class A misdemeanor.

The Illinois Attorney General confirms that state laws guarantee the right of a service animal trainer to be accompanied by a service animal or service animal in training.

Where Trainers Can Bring Service Dogs in Training:

You have the right to enter and use places where the public is allowed, even with a “no pets” policy. This includes:

Places of public accommodation (restaurants, stores, hotels, malls, theaters, museums, libraries, gyms, etc.)

Many government facilities and public areas covered by these laws

Common carriers and modes of transportation (with possible exceptions or requirements under federal rules for air travel)

The dog must still meet standards of good behavior

What Businesses or Staff Can Ask:

Staff may ask limited questions similar to those under the ADA, such as whether the dog is a service animal in training and what tasks or work it is being trained to perform. 

They Cannot:

-Require proof, certification, registration, or documentation

-Ask about the nature of any disability the dog is being trained for

-Insist on a vest or ID (though many trainers use them for clarity)

When Access Can Be Denied:

Access may be denied only in limited cases...

-The dog is out of control and you cannot regain control

-The dog is not housebroken

-The dog’s presence would fundamentally alter the service or pose a direct threat to health and safety (rare)

Your Responsibilities as a Trainer:

-You are fully responsible for the dog at all times

-Keep the dog under control (leash, harness, or voice command)

-Ensure the dog is housebroken and does not bark, jump, or disrupt others

-Clean up after the dog

-The dog must behave appropriately in public

-You are liable for any damage the dog causes to premises or facilities

Quick Tips for Trainers in Illinois (or other states with strong legal protections).:

-No statewide licensing or certification is required for service dog trainers to exercise these access rights while actively training.

-Owner-trainers (training your own future service dog) can qualify as a trainer under these laws.

-Carry water, waste bags, and plan for relief breaks.

-If denied access improperly, document the incident (date, location, what was said) and report it. Violations can be reported to your county State’s Attorney.

-For air travel or housing, check federal rules (Air Carrier Access Act or Fair Housing Act) separately, as they primarily protect fully trained service dogs for people with disabilities.

You (as a service dog trainer) have strong legal protections in Illinois to train service dogs effectively in public. Exercise these rights responsibly while maintaining high standards of behavior and control.

Official Resources:

Illinois Attorney General Service Animals Guide: illinoisattorneygeneral.gov (search for “service animals” PDF)

Service Animal Access Act: 720 ILCS 5/48-8

White Cane Law: 775 ILCS 30

Illinois General Assembly website for full statutes: ilga.gov

Print this informational handout and keep a copy in your service dog’s gear bag. Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy the freedom your service dog provides!

Disclaimer: This is not legal advice and is strictly for informational and educational purposes. Please refer to all national, state, and local rules, regulations, and/or laws.