Manitoba Pet Rules: Condos vs. Apartments Explained

For tenants in Manitoba, understanding your rights and responsibilities when it comes to having pets is crucial—especially as rules can vary significantly between condos and apartments. This guide breaks down how condo and apartment regulations differ, what provincial law says about pets, and how to protect yourself as a pet owner or prospective tenant. Whether you’re thinking of bringing home a new furry friend or you already share your space with a companion animal, staying informed will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure smooth relations with landlords and neighbours.

How Pet Rules Differ: Condos vs. Apartments in Manitoba

Manitoba does not have a universal right for tenants to keep pets, and both condo corporations and apartment landlords may set their own pet policies. Here’s how the two types of housing generally compare:

Rules for Pets in Rental Apartments

• Landlords can include a “no pets” clause in the rental agreement in Manitoba.
• If there is no pet restriction in your signed lease, the landlord usually cannot introduce one mid-lease unless agreed upon by both parties.
• Some rental buildings may allow specific types of pets (e.g., cats but not dogs) or have size, breed, or quantity limits.
• Landlords may collect a pet damage deposit (up to half of one month’s rent) in addition to the regular security deposit.¹

After signing your rental agreement, it’s important to know your ongoing obligations if you have a pet. For more information see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Rules for Pets in Condominiums

• Condos are governed by their own bylaws and rules set by the condominium corporation.
• Many condos have restrictions on pets, including "no pets," limits on animal type, weight, or quantity, and requirements for registering pets.
• If your condo permits pets, you must still follow the bylaws regarding noise, waste disposal, and common space use.
• Condo rules apply even if you are a tenant renting from an owner, not just to owners themselves.

Summary: Always read your lease or condo bylaws carefully before signing. Ask for clarification if rules around pets seem unclear or change after you move in.

Current Manitoba Tenancy Law on Pets

In Manitoba, apartment pet rules are guided by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) and administered by the Residential Tenancies Branch (RTB).² Condominiums, on the other hand, fall under the Condominium Act.

• The RTA allows landlords to include “no pet” provisions and to collect a pet damage deposit (Form: Condition Report – Pets), which is refundable at the end of tenancy if no damage occurs.
• Registered service animals are exempt from pet restrictions under the Manitoba Human Rights Code.³

When and How Is a Pet Damage Deposit Used?

Landlords may require a pet damage deposit before you bring a pet into a rental. Here’s how it works:

• The amount cannot exceed half of one month’s rent.
• The deposit can only be used to cover pet-related damage beyond regular wear and tear.
• The landlord must return the deposit (with interest, if any) at the end of tenancy or when you no longer have the pet, provided there is no damage.

For a step-by-step guide to getting your deposit back, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

What Happens If You Break Pet Rules?

Tenants who keep unauthorized pets or violate condo pet bylaws may face written warnings, loss of pet privileges, additional cleaning fees, or, as a last resort, eviction. Usually, the process includes:

• A written notice to remove the pet within a set deadline
• Opportunity to discuss or mediate the issue (especially in condos, via the condo board)
• Possible hearing at the Residential Tenancies Branch in case of disputes

Practical Tips for Tenants with Pets

• Get permission for your pet before moving in or adding new animals to your household.
• Document any pet-related cleaning or repairs to help secure your deposit refund.
• If your building has pet rules, keep a copy and follow guidelines for registration and use of common spaces.
• If you require a service animal, fill out the appropriate accommodation forms and provide supporting documentation.

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Related Manitoba Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Both condo and apartment tenants must follow noise, health, and safety rules, regardless of pet status. For more details about your rights in Manitoba, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

FAQs About Pets in Manitoba Rentals

1. Can my landlord evict me for having a pet if the lease says “no pets”? Yes, if your lease has a clear “no pets” clause, the landlord may issue a notice for breach of agreement. Always talk to your landlord before getting a pet.
2. Do the same pet rules apply in condominiums? Not always—condo rules are set by the condo corporation. They may be stricter or more flexible than standard rental building rules.
3. Is my service animal allowed where pets are not? Service animals are protected by law, so landlords and condo boards must allow them even if pets are otherwise banned.³
4. How much can my landlord charge as a pet deposit? In Manitoba, it’s capped at half of one month’s rent and only for damage caused by your pet.
5. What should I do if I’m facing eviction over my pet? Contact the Residential Tenancies Branch for help, and consider mediation before the situation escalates.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always clarify pet rules and get permission in writing before bringing a pet into your home.
• Apartment and condo pet rules differ—check your lease or bylaws carefully.
• Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and Human Rights Code, especially if you require a service animal.

Staying proactive helps protect both your home and your pet’s place in it.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Contact the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch for questions on rental rules, deposits, and disputes
• Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba
• For pet-related accommodations, see the Manitoba Human Rights Commission
• Provincial tenant hotlines and legal clinics can offer support if you face eviction or discrimination

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)
2. Residential Tenancies Branch (Manitoba)
3. Manitoba Human Rights Commission – Service Animals

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