Finding a rental property in Alberta can be tough—especially if you have pets. Many tenants wonder if being denied housing because of a pet is legal, or if there are ways to challenge a landlord's policy. This guide explains your rights as a tenant in Alberta regarding pet ownership, landlord pet policies, and important exceptions for service animals.

Can Landlords Refuse Tenants with Pets in Alberta?

Unlike some provinces, Alberta has no law that prevents landlords from making "no pets" policies in their rental units. Landlords may legally include a "no pets" clause in leases and refuse applicants who have pets. There are, however, special rules regarding service animals and protections under human rights legislation.

• Landlords in Alberta have the right to include pet restrictions in lease agreements.
• They may refuse a rental application solely based on pet ownership.
• Security deposits may be increased for pet owners (within legal maximums).

For a comprehensive overview of tenant and landlord rights in Alberta, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Exceptions: Service Animals and Human Rights

While general pets can be refused, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants using service dogs or guide animals because these are protected under Alberta’s human rights laws and the Service Dogs Act (Alberta) ^[1]. If your animal is a qualified service animal, you cannot legally be denied housing because of that animal.

• Service dogs must be qualified and certified by the Government of Alberta.
• Landlords may ask to see government-issued service dog identification.

Visit the official Alberta Human Rights Commission complaint page for more information on making a discrimination claim.

What About Emotional Support Animals?

Emotional support animals (ESAs) are not covered in the same way as certified service animals in Alberta. Currently, landlords do not have to accommodate ESAs—the law protects only service animals with official certification.

Rental Agreements and Pet Clauses

If you are signing a lease, make sure to read any pet-related rules. Restrictions must be clear, and you should be aware of any additional deposits or fees. For practical advice after lease signing, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

• Never hide a pet if your lease prohibits them—it can put your tenancy at risk.
• Negotiate in writing if you wish for exceptions, such as for small or caged animals.

If your landlord allows pets, you may be asked for a pet deposit. To understand your rights around deposits and maximum allowable charges, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Discrimination and Filing a Complaint

Discrimination occurs if you are refused housing because of a service animal, or a disability requiring that animal's assistance. The Alberta Human Rights Act protects tenants in these cases. Here are steps if you believe you've been discriminated against:

1. Gather documentation: Keep emails, messages, or rejection notices mentioning your pet or service animal.
2. Confirm your service animal’s qualification, if relevant.
3. File an official complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission (official discrimination complaint process).

The Tribunal for Tenancy Issues in Alberta

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) is Alberta’s main tribunal handling rental disputes. However, discrimination issues involving service animals should be brought to the Alberta Human Rights Commission. For other tenancy matters, such as disagreements about deposits or pet clauses, tenants can apply to the RTDRS.

Key Forms for Alberta Tenants

• Alberta Human Rights Complaint Form – Used to formally report discrimination in housing based on disability or use of service animal. See the official form and submission details here. Example: If a landlord refuses your certified service animal, use this form.
• RTDRS Application Form – Used to resolve landlord-tenant disputes (not discrimination issues). Start the application online here.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Trying to bypass pet restrictions (such as sneaking in a pet or misrepresenting your animal as a service animal) can result in eviction. Always disclose pets honestly to your landlord.

Finding Pet-Friendly Rentals in Alberta

Many landlords do allow pets with reasonable conditions. Platforms like Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca offer an easy way to browse listings catering to pet owners. Always clarify pet policies in writing before moving in.

FAQ: Alberta Pet Ownership & Rental Rights

1. Can a landlord in Alberta refuse me because I have a pet?
   Yes. Alberta law permits landlords to deny applications due to pet ownership, unless it involves a certified service animal.
2. Are landlords allowed to charge extra deposits for pets?
   Landlords may request a pet deposit, but total deposits (including security and pet) cannot be more than one month’s rent.
3. Are emotional support animals legally protected?
   No, only service dogs and certain assistance animals with official certification are legally protected in Alberta.
4. What should I do if I’m denied housing because of my service animal?
   File a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission and provide proof of your animal’s certification.
5. Where can I learn more about landlord and tenant laws in Alberta?
   Check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a detailed overview.

Conclusion: What Alberta Tenants with Pets Need to Know

• Landlords may reject tenants with pets unless it involves a certified service animal.
• Certified service animals are protected; denial may be discrimination.
• Always confirm pet policies in your lease before signing.

Remember, staying informed ensures a smoother rental experience for you and your pet.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Human Rights Commission – File discrimination complaints or get advice about service animal accommodations.
• Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) – For other landlord-tenant disputes.
• Alberta Service Dog Qualifications – Details on registering and certifying service dogs.
• Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca – Browse Alberta rental listings that welcome pets.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta – In-depth legal information specific to Alberta.

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1. Service Dogs Act, Government of Alberta: Read Service Dogs Act details
2. Alberta Human Rights Act, Government of Alberta: Read Alberta Human Rights Act
3. Residential Tenancies Act, Government of Alberta: Read Residential Tenancies Act

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