If you’re renting in Alberta and hoping to have a pet, understanding your rights and your landlord’s powers regarding pet policies is essential. Alberta law allows landlords to set pet-related rules in most rental properties, but there are important details and protections tenants should know.

Alberta’s Rules on Pets in Rental Housing

Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act doesn’t specifically grant tenants the right to have pets, nor does it prohibit landlords from imposing pet bans. In practice, landlords can bar pets or set conditions unless their actions violate human rights laws (such as accommodating service animals or disabilities).

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is the main body handling tenancy disputes in Alberta, including those about pet policies.

How Pet Policies Are Set

• Landlords may include a “no pets” clause in the lease agreement. If this is present, tenants generally cannot keep pets unless the landlord gives written permission.
• If the lease is silent about pets, tenants should get written approval before bringing animals into the unit.
• Exceptions must be made for service animals, as required by Alberta’s Service Dogs Act and the Alberta Human Rights Act.^[1]

Pet policies can impact your tenancy, so clarify them before signing a lease. For more about agreements, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Pet Deposits and Additional Fees

Alberta landlords can ask for a separate pet damage deposit, but it cannot exceed the equivalent of one month’s rent (combined total with security deposit). This deposit is held for damage caused by pets only, not general wear and tear.

If your landlord requests a pet deposit or any other deposit, ensure you know your rights and obligations—see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for full details.

Service and Support Animals

Landlords must allow service dogs for tenants with disabilities, even if pets are otherwise banned. This is a protected right in Alberta. However, the animal must be certified, and documentation may be requested (but not medical details).

Support animals, such as emotional support dogs, may be protected if required for medical accommodation under the human rights process. Tenants may have to provide medical documentation supporting the need for accommodation, but landlords cannot charge extra pet deposits for certified service animals.

Common Pitfalls and Practical Tips

• Read your lease carefully. If a “no pets” rule is stated, violating it can lead to eviction.
• Negotiate before move-in. Get written approval if you want to keep a pet.
• Ask if there is a monthly pet fee or just a deposit.
• Request a move-in inspection—especially important if you have pets. See the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
• Address issues quickly if complaints arise about your pet.

Even if pets are allowed, noise, damage, or safety issues can become lease violations. Handle problems promptly to avoid disputes.

For more detail about tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Looking to move with your pet? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for options across Canada.

Relevant Forms for Alberta Tenants and Pets

• Lease Agreement (“Residential Tenancy Agreement”): This sets the pet policy and must be read before signing. See the official lease agreement guide.
• Application to RTDRS (Form CC RTDRS): Use this to dispute a pet-related eviction or deposit issue.
  Example: If your landlord tries to evict you solely for applying for a service animal, you can file this form. Access the RTDRS Application Form.
• Human Rights Complaint Form: File this with the Alberta Human Rights Commission if accommodation for a service animal is denied. Get the Human Rights Complaint Form.

Always keep copies of any forms and submit them according to the instructions provided on the form or government site.

FAQ: Alberta Tenants and Pets

1. Can a landlord refuse any pet in Alberta?
   Yes, unless the animal is a certified service animal or required for disability accommodation. If the lease bans pets, a landlord can refuse, unless doing so would violate human rights laws.
2. Can landlords charge extra for pets?
   A pet damage deposit can be required, up to one month’s rent. Monthly pet “fees” are also allowed if agreed to in advance, except for certified service animals.
3. Does a landlord have to allow emotional support animals?
   Not in all cases, but if you require the animal for a disability and provide documentation, landlords may have to accommodate you under the Human Rights Act.
4. What if I get a pet after moving in?
   If your lease bans pets, you need written permission before bringing a pet into your home—or risk eviction.
5. Where do I go if my landlord breaks the law?
   You can file with the RTDRS for lease disputes or with the Alberta Human Rights Commission for accommodation issues.

Key Takeaways for Alberta Tenants with Pets

• Landlords can generally ban pets unless you require a service animal by law.
• Written lease agreements control pet policies—always confirm before committing.
• Pet damage deposits are legal but capped at one month’s rent.
• Know your dispute and accommodation options if problems arise.

Discuss all pet arrangements before signing a lease, and seek help if your rights are violated.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – Alberta
• Alberta Human Rights Commission (Accommodation & Complaints)
• Government of Alberta Residential Tenancies Resources
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (See full Act on CanLII)
2. Service Dogs Act (Service Dogs Act, Alberta Queen's Printer)
3. Alberta Human Rights Act (Read the Alberta Human Rights Act)

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