The Fair Housing Act is intended to protect people from discrimination when they are renting, buying or securing financing for housing. The prohibitions specifically cover discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability and the presence of children. Its primary prohibition makes it unlawful to refuse to sell, rent to, or negotiate with any person because of that person's inclusion in a protected class.
Douglas County, a participant within the Northwest Regional Housing Program, has adopted a fair housing ordinance that is intended to prohibit discrimination in housing by any person. The ordinance assures equal opportunity for all persons to live in adequate housing facilities regardless of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, family status, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, lawful source of income, age or status as a victim of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking, and it is the duty of the political subdivisions to assist in the orderly prevention or removal of all discrimination in housing.
Compliance with the fair housing ordinance is essential to building a strong community, creating an environment of non-discrimination, and ensuring fair and equal housing opportunities for all.
If you believe you have been treated unfairly while looking for housing, or are being discriminated against by your current landlord, please contact the county clerk’s office at 715-395-1568 or call the federal Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at 1-800-669-9777 (TDD 1-800-877-8339) for more information.
Kimberly Gifford,
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Northwest Regional Planning Commission
