There is a 501c3 animal shelter in my area that collects donations but the general public is not permitted in the shelter. The animals have to be escorted out of the building by an employee. Is this legal? Does a 501c3 have to allow access to the public when requested?
Thank you

I have moved your post to a new thread, because asking a new question in an old thread is not a good idea. It tends to cause confusion.

I have placed it in the "corporate law" thread because, as explained below, that would probably be where it belongs.

A 501 (c) (3) organization is normally a non-profit corporation organized under the laws of a particular state. As such, you would have to check the laws of that state to be sure, but I rather doubt that the policies you describe are prohibited by law. Also, check the by-laws of the organization. Are you a member? If so, attend the next regular meeting and ask for a change in the procedures.

I am active in animal rescue in NY - in NY, at least, the answer to your question is no.

My question would be why you are looking to cause a problem for the people who run the shelter - ? If you believe the animals are mistreated and your personal inspection will change that, notify the local Animal Protection Authorities and they will do the investigation.

Just to state the obvious - no, it's not illegal for a 501c3 organization to deny physical access to their facility by members of the general public. There can be lots of reasons they woud permit only authorized pesonnel inside - safety, insurance reasons, fear of someone harming the animals, etc. Some examples of other types of charitable organizations that may limit access to their facilities include private schools, hospitals, research institutions, etc.

No, animal shelters are inspected by government agencies and you may request to see copies of their license, their inspection certificates.

But no the public does not have to be allowed into the back where animals are housed.