Are landlords allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in violation of Fair Housing Law?

Fair Housing Laws in California prohibit landlords from charging tenants additional pet deposits or fees unless those deposits and fees are likewise charged for non-pet-owning tenants who have comparable living situations. Landlords must also always provide tenants who own pets with the same level of amenities and services (such as pet-focused waste management, pet-friendly landscaping, etc.) that are provided to non-pet-owning tenants. These restrictions can be applicable to both residential leases and rental agreements. In general, landlords are not allowed to discriminate against tenants who own pets. However, some exceptions to the rules may exist, such as requiring all tenants to sign a pet agreement or stipulating a specific weight limit for pets. Landlords are also allowed to charge pet deposits as long as they do not exceed the deposit requirement for non-pet-owning tenants. Ultimately, landlords are allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in certain situations, but they must always be careful to follow Fair Housing Laws, as violations of these laws can lead to penalties or fines. Additionally, landlords should always consult with their local housing authority before developing a pet policy in order to make sure that it is compliant with local and state laws.

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Are landlords allowed to charge pet deposits or fees in violation of Fair Housing Law?

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