Pets | Faculty & Postdocs

Residents with approved Service or Assistance Animals must adhere to Columbia University’s Guidelines for Approved Animals. Key policies are outlined below:

1. Approval Requirement 

• Residents must receive prior approval from Columbia Residential before bringing an animal into University housing. 

2. Resident Responsibilities 

• The resident must ensure the animal does not disrupt the residential community or create undue burdens for other students. 
• The resident is fully responsible for any damage, excessive cleaning, or pest control costs caused by the animal. 

3. Housing Regulations 

• Approved Animals must remain in the owner’s assigned unit unless leashed, in a carrier, or traveling with the owner. 
• If a resident leaves University housing overnight, the animal must accompany them. 

4. Maintenance & Emergency Access 

• Housing staff will make reasonable efforts to notify residents before scheduled maintenance but are not responsible for containing the animal during repairs. 
• In an emergency, the designated Animal Emergency Contact must remove the animal within 8 hours. If unavailable, Animal Control may be contacted. 

5. University & Staff Liability 

• Columbia University and its staff are not responsible for the care, evacuation, or well-being of the animal. 

6. Policy Compliance 

• Non-compliance with University policies may result in the immediate removal of the animal and potential disciplinary action.