In Florida, your ESA housing rights rest first on state law. Florida Statute 760.27 establishes documentation standards and requires ESA letters from licensed mental health professionals after a proper evaluation. This state protection is enforced by the Florida Commission on Human Relations and remains fully active. The federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3604) provides the same obligation, and that statute has not changed.
Landlords in Lakewood Ranch who refuse a valid ESA letter or continue charging pet fees may be in violation of Florida Statute 760.27 and federal law. Complaints can be filed with the Florida Commission on Human Relations.