from Condo Line by Richard White
Miami Herald, Sunday May 21st

Q:  In my association, the documents allow pets in certain sections and disallow in other neighborhoods.  Recently a woman who lives in a neighborhood that restricts pets approached the board with a letter from her physician stating that she needed a dog for her mental well-being.  The board granted permission based on a particular section of the Fair Housing Act.  I haven't been able to find the section.  A.L., Largo

A:  Most likely the board was referring to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  This is a strong act to protect people with disabilities.  I recommend that any time a person brings a letter from their doctor, the board make a strong effort to comply.  If the board is concerned about such a request, they should ask the association's attorney for an opinion letter.  Then make a motion to allow a one-time exception.  The motion should not affect the enforcement of the rules concerning any other owner.