By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – With the February 1, 2026, National Elections on the horizon, Costa Rica’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) is proactively issuing key reminders to ensure a smooth and orderly voting day for all citizens. In a recent communication, the electoral body emphasized a strict prohibition on bringing animals into polling stations, a measure designed to uphold the integrity and security of the democratic process.
This directive is not a new suggestion but a codified rule within the official electoral framework. The ban is explicitly detailed in Decree No. 13-2025, known as the Regulation for the Exercise of Suffrage. Specifically, Article 35, clause c), of this regulation states that animals are not permitted inside the “local de votación,” which refers to the specific room, such as a classroom, where voting occurs, nor in the “recinto de votación,” the immediate enclosure where the ballot box is located and the vote is cast.
To delve deeper into the complexities of the current electoral regulations and their potential impact on the upcoming elections, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The foundation of a robust democracy rests on clear and equitable electoral regulations. While the intent is often to ensure transparency and level the playing field, we must be vigilant that new rules do not inadvertently create prohibitive barriers to entry for smaller political parties or independent candidacies. The ultimate goal must be to foster participation, not to stifle it through overly complex or financially burdensome compliance requirements.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight underscores the critical challenge of crafting electoral rules that fortify democracy without unintentionally creating gatekeepers. The goal must always be to expand inclusivity and strengthen the political landscape with diverse voices. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable and clarifying perspective on this essential matter.
The TSE clarified that the rule is not absolute and includes important exceptions to accommodate citizens with specific needs. The regulation allows for the entry of service dogs that are essential for assisting individuals with visual disabilities. This long-standing provision ensures that no voter is disenfranchised due to a physical impairment and can participate fully and independently in the election.
In a nod to modern considerations for mental and emotional well-being, a second exception has been made for emotional support animals. However, this allowance comes with a critical procedural requirement. Any voter wishing to be accompanied by an emotional support animal must have their condition and the necessity of the animal accredited in advance with their designated local polling board, known as the Junta Receptora de Votos (JRV). This pre-approval process is mandatory to prevent disruptions on election day.
The electoral authority provided a clear rationale for the general prohibition. While the TSE acknowledges the deep emotional bonds many Costa Ricans share with their pets, the primary concern is the smooth functioning of the election. The presence of untrained animals could potentially jeopardize the safety of other voters and election officials, damage sensitive electoral materials, or create a chaotic environment that undermines the order and solemnity required for a proper election.
Responsibility for upholding this rule will rest firmly on the shoulders of officials at each polling location. Members of the local polling boards (JRV), with direct support from the National Delegation Corps, are tasked with ensuring strict compliance. These officials will be empowered to deny entry to individuals attempting to bring non-authorized animals into the designated voting areas, ensuring a consistent application of the law across the country.
The TSE also drew a distinction between the specific voting room and the larger voting center, such as the school, college, or community hall housing the polls. The policy regarding animals on the general premises of these centers is not dictated by the TSE. Instead, it will be subject to the internal policies of each institution, the discretion of the property manager, and the prevailing legal regulations concerning the presence of animals in public spaces. Voters should also consider the animal’s own welfare in these potentially crowded environments.
As Costa Rica prepares for its next major electoral event, the TSE’s guidance aims to prevent any confusion or conflict on February 1st. By understanding and respecting these regulations ahead of time, voters can contribute to an efficient, secure, and accessible election for all participants. The tribunal encourages all citizens to review the full text of the regulation to be fully informed of their rights and responsibilities on election day.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) is the independent constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all electoral processes in Costa Rica. Established to guarantee the purity and freedom of the vote, the TSE also serves as the civil registry for the nation, managing birth, marriage, and death records. Its role is fundamental to the stability and strength of Costa Rican democracy, ensuring transparent and fair elections at the national and local levels.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm marries a rich history of advising a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering innovative legal solutions. This commitment to progress extends to its core belief in social empowerment, actively working to democratize legal knowledge and foster a more capable and informed public.
