Can a landlord in Manitoba deny a tenant's request to have a pet?

Generally, landlords can refuse pets, but they must consider requests for service animals or pets required for a disability, unless it causes undue hardship.

What documentation do I need for a service animal accommodation in Manitoba?

You will need a letter from a licensed health care provider or appropriate certification stating your need for a service or support animal.

How do I file a complaint if my landlord rejects my accommodation request?

Submit a complaint to the Manitoba Human Rights Commission with supporting documentation and details of your case.

Is a pet deposit required for a service animal?

No, Manitoba law does not allow landlords to charge extra deposits or rent for certified service animals.

Are emotional support animals treated the same as service animals in Manitoba?

Emotional support animals may be accommodated with documentation, but certified service animals have stronger legal protections.

How to Request Pet Accommodation as a Tenant in Manitoba

Utilities & Services Manitoba published: June 12, 2025

Renters in Manitoba often wonder about their rights to have pets in their homes. While landlords can set rules about pets, situations arise—especially involving service animals or emotional support animals—where accommodation may be required. Understanding your legal position, how to make a formal request, and the processes involved helps ensure your rights are respected.

Pet Policies in Manitoba: What Tenants Need to Know

In Manitoba, landlords generally have the right to prohibit or limit pets in their rental properties. They may include a "no pets" clause in the tenancy agreement. However, exceptions can apply, especially for tenants needing a service animal due to a disability, as protected by the The Human Rights Code (Manitoba).^[1]

When Are Pet Accommodations Legally Required?

Landlords must consider requests for accommodation when a rental policy negatively affects a person’s disability. For example, a tenant with a service dog or emotional support animal may have the right to an exception from a "no pets" policy under Manitoba’s human rights protections. Landlords can only deny such requests if they can prove it would cause them undue hardship (e.g., serious health concerns for other tenants or property damage).

How to Request Pet Accommodation: Step-by-Step

If you believe your circumstances require a landlord to make an exception to a "no pets" policy, you should follow a clear process. Here’s how tenants in Manitoba can formally request pet accommodation:

Review Your Lease: Check your rental agreement for pet clauses or restrictions.
Gather Documentation: Have medical or support documentation ready if requesting accommodation for a disability. For service animals, obtain proof (such as a letter from a healthcare provider or appropriate certification).
Make a Written Request: Write a letter or email to your landlord outlining your need for pet accommodation. Include supporting documents and be clear about the type of animal and its purpose.
Allow Time for Response: Give your landlord reasonable time to consider your request. Record all correspondence.
Escalate If Needed: If your request is unreasonably denied, you can file a formal complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or seek guidance from the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB).

Forms and Official Contacts for Tenant Requests

Tenants do not have a specific provincial "pet accommodation" form in Manitoba, but you can use general accommodation request templates or file a complaint using the following official options:

Human Rights Complaint Form – Manitoba Human Rights Commission Online Filing
Use this form to file a complaint if you believe you have experienced discrimination—including denial of pet accommodation for a disability. For example, if a landlord refuses your certified service animal despite medical documentation, you may complete the form and submit copies of your correspondence and support letters.^[2]

The Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) handles general landlord-tenant disputes in Manitoba, including issues related to lease terms and policy enforcement. If you need help enforcing terms or understanding your lease, they are an important resource.

If your request involves a certified service animal or documented need linked to a disability, your landlord must seriously consider your request under human rights law—even with a "no pets" lease policy.

Who Handles Disputes About Pet Accommodation?

Two key bodies may help Manitoba tenants with pet accommodation disputes:

Manitoba Human Rights Commission: For discrimination based on disability and service or support animals.
Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB): Handles general disputes over tenancy terms and landlord obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba).^[3]

Tenants should also review their Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba for a guide to relevant legal protections and schemes available to them.

Other Issues to Consider

Even when allowed, landlords may set reasonable rules to protect property and other tenants. This can include:

Pet deposits (if permitted by law)
Leash or restraint policies in common areas
Limits on pet size or type (if not discriminatory)

If pets cause property damage or ongoing issues, tenants and landlords should resolve these promptly. Learn more about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting to understand broader obligations around property care and tenant duties.

If you’re researching rentals, consider using Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to find options that fit your needs.

FAQ: Pet Accommodation for Tenants in Manitoba

Can a landlord refuse my request for a pet in Manitoba?
Generally, yes—unless you require the animal for reasons related to a disability, such as a service or emotional support animal. In these cases, landlords must consider your accommodation request and can only refuse in cases of undue hardship.
Do I need to pay a pet deposit for a support or service animal?
In Manitoba, a landlord cannot require a deposit or extra rent for a certified service animal required due to a disability. For regular pets, a deposit may be requested if permitted by law and noted in your lease.
What if my landlord ignores or denies my accommodation request?
If your landlord refuses to consider your request for a service animal, you can file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission or seek help from the Residential Tenancies Branch.
What documents do I need for a service animal request?
You typically need a letter from a licensed healthcare provider or official certification indicating your requirement for the animal due to your disability.
Are emotional support animals treated the same as service animals?
Not always. Emotional support animals may receive protection under human rights law if supported by documentation, but requirements are stricter for certified service animals.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Manitoba landlords can set pet restrictions, but must accommodate certified service animals or documented disability-related needs unless undue hardship can be shown.
Request accommodation in writing, keep copies of all documents, and seek formal help if necessary.
For broader issues, consult the Residential Tenancies Branch and review your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB) Manitoba: Guidance on rental agreements and enforcement.
Manitoba Human Rights Commission: Handle discrimination and pet accommodation complaints.
Manitoba Tenants Information: Tenant rights and support resources.