28Aug, 2025
ESA Friendly Rentals in St. Louis: Housing Guide for Emotional Support Animal Owners

ESA Friendly Rentals in St. Louis: Complete Housing Guide

Introduction

St. Louis, Missouri, is a city with a rich cultural history, iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, and an affordable cost of living compared to many U.S. metros. For tenants with emotional support animals (ESAs), finding housing can be challenging if landlords enforce strict pet policies. However, under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), ESA owners are legally entitled to live with their animals, even in “no-pet” properties.

In this guide, we’ll cover ESA housing rights in St. Louis, top neighborhoods with ESA-friendly rentals, and practical tips for securing a home where you and your ESA are welcome.

”Get Yours Now!

Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.

Please fill out this form and our team wil contact you ASAP.

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Complete your assessment in minutes , get approved by a licensed professional, and receive your letter within 24 hours.

What Are ESA Friendly Rentals in St. Louis?

ESA friendly rentals are housing options that accommodate tenants with emotional support animals under federal law. Unlike standard pet-friendly apartments, ESA accommodations must:

  • Allow ESAs in no-pet buildings.
  • Waive pet deposits, pet rent, and fees.
  • Remove breed, size, and weight restrictions.

This ensures ESA owners in St. Louis can find housing without facing unnecessary barriers.

ESA Housing Rights in St. Louis

1. Federal Protections

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) protects ESA tenants across Missouri. Landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs.

2. Missouri Housing Laws

Missouri aligns with federal ESA housing protections. Landlords cannot deny housing based on ESA ownership.

3. Documentation Requirements

Tenants must present a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. The letter must state the tenant’s need for the ESA as part of their treatment plan.

Best Neighborhoods for ESA Friendly Rentals in St. Louis

1. Downtown St. Louis

  • Urban living with access to jobs, nightlife, and attractions.
  • Close to parks like Kiener Plaza and the Gateway Arch grounds.

2. Central West End

  • Upscale area near Washington University.
  • ESA-friendly luxury apartments and historic rentals.

3. Soulard

  • Known for its French heritage and Mardi Gras celebrations.
  • Walkable area with townhomes and ESA-friendly apartments.

4. Tower Grove South

  • Affordable neighborhood with access to Tower Grove Park.
  • Great for ESA owners who enjoy outdoor spaces.

5. Lafayette Square

  • Historic neighborhood with Victorian-style homes.
  • ESA-friendly rentals with a quiet, community feel.

6. Clayton

  • Suburban atmosphere with modern apartments.
  • Great for families and ESA owners seeking space.

How to Find ESA Friendly Rentals in St. Louis

1. Use Rental Platforms

Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, Rent.com, and HotPads help you find pet-friendly rentals, which can then be accessed with ESA protections.

2. Work with Realtors

Local agents in St. Louis often know landlords familiar with ESA housing requirements.

3. Student Housing Options

Washington University and Saint Louis University both allow ESA accommodations in dorms through disability support services.

Tips for Renting With an ESA in St. Louis

  1. Get a valid ESA letter before applying for rentals.
  2. Submit your ESA accommodation request in writing to landlords.
  3. Stay professional and educate landlords if they confuse ESAs with pets.
  4. Ensure your ESA is well-trained to avoid complaints.
  5. Know your rights—if denied, file a complaint with HUD or the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.

Challenges ESA Tenants Face in St. Louis

  • Older housing stock – Some historic apartments may have stricter landlords.
  • Landlord misconceptions – Property owners may confuse ESAs with service animals or pets.
  • High demand areas – Popular neighborhoods like Central West End can be competitive.

Benefits of ESA Friendly Rentals in St. Louis

  • Access to no-pet housing with legal protections.
  • No need to pay pet deposits or monthly pet rent, saving hundreds yearly.
  • St. Louis has many parks like Forest Park and Tower Grove Park, perfect for ESAs.
  • Equal housing opportunities supported by federal and state law.

Steps to Request ESA Housing in St. Louis

  1. Obtain an ESA letter from a licensed therapist or doctor.
  2. Send a reasonable accommodation request to your landlord.
  3. Provide supporting documents if needed.
  4. If denied, escalate the case to HUD or the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.

Resources for ESA Tenants in St. Louis

  • HUD Fair Housing Office – Handles ESA-related housing discrimination.
  • Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) – Enforces state housing protections.
  • Legal Services of Eastern Missouri – Provides free or low-cost legal aid for housing disputes.
  • University Disability Offices – Support ESA requests for students in housing.

Conclusion

St. Louis offers a variety of ESA friendly rentals across its diverse neighborhoods. From the historic charm of Soulard to the upscale appeal of Central West End and the green spaces of Tower Grove, ESA owners have plenty of housing options.

Thanks to protections under the Fair Housing Act and Missouri law, landlords must allow emotional support animals without extra fees or restrictions. By securing a valid ESA letter, knowing your rights, and targeting ESA-friendly neighborhoods, you and your emotional support animal can enjoy life in the Gateway City stress-free.

”Get Yours Now!

Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.

Please fill out this form and our team wil contact you ASAP.

Form Link

Complete your assessment in minutes , get approved by a licensed professional, and receive your letter within 24 hours.