Yes, service dogs have broad public access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Businesses, nonprofits, and state/local government entities that serve the public (known as public accommodations) must generally allow service dogs to accompany their handlers in all areas open to the public, even if they have a "no pets" policy.
Examples of allowed places:
Restaurants, cafes, and food service areas.
Stores, malls, and grocery shops.
Hotels, theaters, and entertainment venues.
Hospitals (patient areas and public spaces; exceptions for sterile zones like operating rooms).
Public transportation, taxis, rideshares, and airports.
No extra fees, deposits, or isolation (e.g., outdoor-only seating) are permitted.
Exceptions (rare):
If the dog is out of control (and the handler doesn't correct it) or not housebroken.
If it poses a direct threat (based on behavior, not breed) or fundamentally alters the nature of the business.
Staff may only ask two questions: (1) Is this a service animal required for a disability? (2) What task has it been trained to perform? No documentation, vests, or IDs can be required.
This is distinct from emotional support animals (ESAs), which lack public access rights under the ADA.