Is It Legal for Landlords to Restrict Pet Ownership in Rental Properties?

Yes, it is generally legal for landlords to restrict pet ownership in rental properties, but these restrictions must comply with local laws and tenant rights. Landlords have the right to set rules for their properties, including whether or not pets are allowed, but these rules must not violate anti-discrimination laws or restrict tenants' rights unfairly.

Conditions for Pet Restrictions

1. Lease Agreement: Landlords can specify in the lease whether pets are allowed, and if so, what types of pets, how many, and any restrictions regarding size, breed, or behavior. This should be clearly outlined in the rental agreement.
2. Pet Deposit or Fees: Landlords may require a pet deposit or additional monthly pet fees to cover potential damages caused by pets. These terms should be specified in the lease agreement.
3. Restrictions Based on Property Type: Landlords may restrict pets based on the type of rental property. For example, apartment buildings with shared walls may impose restrictions due to noise concerns, allergies, or the potential for damage.
4. Local Laws and Ordinances: Some cities or states may have regulations that limit how landlords can impose pet restrictions, particularly regarding service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs).
5. Fair Housing Act: Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords cannot discriminate against tenants with disabilities by denying them the right to keep service animals or emotional support animals, even if pets are otherwise restricted.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

• Service Animals: Landlords must allow service animals (such as guide dogs for the visually impaired) regardless of their pet policy. Service animals are not considered pets but rather an accommodation for a disability.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Tenants with a documented need for an emotional support animal may request an exemption from a no pets policy under the FHA, but the tenant must provide proper documentation, typically from a licensed mental health professional.

Tenant Protections

• Disability Accommodation: If a tenant requires a service animal or ESA, they can request reasonable accommodation, and the landlord is generally obligated to allow it, even if their policy restricts pets.
• Local Pet Laws: Some jurisdictions have stricter laws protecting tenants' rights regarding pet ownership, including limits on pet fees or restrictions.

Example

A tenant with a medical condition requires an emotional support dog. Despite the landlord’s no-pets policy, the tenant provides the necessary documentation from a healthcare provider. The landlord is legally required to allow the emotional support dog, as it falls under the disability accommodation provisions of the Fair Housing Act.