Am I required by law in California to proof of my service dog to my landlord

Question

I am disabled and use a walker and my I have two service dogs in order to have my dogs put on leaves at service dogs and not be charged they are requiring me to show proof of a service dog certificate and along with a copy of their vaccinations records and a picture. My sister filled out the lease did the paperwork for me to get the apartment and I was unaware that she's not did not say my dog service dogs so I informed property manager as soon as I realized. 
 
Do they have the right to ask for all these papers? Isn't it a considered a discriminatory act by them asking for vaccination records to be listed as service dogs when they didn't ask for vaccination records when I moved in as past isn't that discriminatory. 
 
Plus they also won't refund my $1,000 pet deposit or take the payment off my rent until I get them those papers what should I do and if you can the exact law pertaining to that . 
History have appointment with dfeh match for that an other violation. Thank you 4 ur time

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

Under California law, landlords are not allowed to require proof of a service animal's certification or training as a condition for allowing the animal to live in the rental unit. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) both protect individuals with disabilities who use service animals, and landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for them. Asking for proof of certification or training is generally considered discriminatory, as it imposes an additional burden on individuals with disabilities. 
 
Additionally, landlords cannot charge extra fees or deposits for service animals. The FEHA and ADA prohibit landlords from charging fees or deposits specifically for service animals, as they are not considered pets under the law. Therefore, if your dogs are indeed service animals, the landlord cannot withhold your $1,000 pet deposit or require you to pay additional fees or deposits. 
 
If your landlord is refusing to make reasonable accommodations for your service animals or is unlawfully withholding your deposit, you may have grounds for legal action. You mentioned having an upcoming appointment with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), which is a step in the right direction. The DFEH handles complaints of housing discrimination, and they can investigate your case and take appropriate action against the landlord if they find evidence of discrimination. 
 
In the meantime, it may be helpful to gather any documentation or evidence you have related to your disability and the status of your service animals. This could include medical records, letters from healthcare providers confirming your need for the service animals, and any correspondence with the landlord regarding the accommodation request. Having this information ready can help support your case and strengthen your position when dealing with the landlord or pursuing legal action.

Q: Am I required by law in California to proof of my service dog to my landlord