Can Landlords Charge a Pet Deposit in Nova Scotia?

Utilities & Services Nova Scotia published: June 13, 2025 Flag of Nova Scotia

Many tenants in Nova Scotia want to bring family pets when they move into a new rental. It's important to understand your rights around pet deposits, fees, and what your landlord can and cannot charge under provincial law. This guide explains the rules clearly so you can move forward confidently—whether you already have a pet or plan to adopt one.

What the Law Says About Pet Deposits in Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, landlords cannot charge a separate pet deposit or pet fee for having a pet in your rental unit. The province's tenancy rules are clear: the only deposit a landlord can require is a security deposit, which itself has a strict limit (equal to no more than half a month's rent).

Landlords may include pet policies in your lease (such as restrictions on animal types or a "no pets" rule), but they cannot require any kind of additional financial charge solely for pets.

Security Deposits: The Only Legal Deposit

If your landlord asks for a pet deposit, a cleaning fee, or any "pet insurance" or fee up front, you have the right to refuse. According to Nova Scotia's Residential Tenancies Act, the security deposit is the only deposit permitted and must not exceed half of one month's rent for the unit[1].

To learn more about legal deposits, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Typical Lease Clauses on Pets

While a landlord may include restrictions or conditions about pets in your lease (such as size, type, or number of animals), these are separate from the issue of deposits. If you agree to a no-pet or restricted pet policy, breaking these rules could give the landlord legal grounds for action—but they still cannot charge an extra deposit or fee.

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Forms and Procedures for Tenants with Pets

No special provincial forms are needed specifically for having a pet in your Nova Scotia rental. However, all tenants and landlords must use the standard provincial forms for deposits, lease agreements, and disputes:

  • Form C: Security Deposit Form – Provided by the landlord when collecting your refundable security deposit (up to half a month's rent). For official details and template, see the Nova Scotia Security Deposit Form (Form C).
    Example: If your rent is $1,000/month, the maximum deposit your landlord can ask for is $500 (including anything for pets).
  • Form K: Application to Director – If you believe your landlord has illegally collected a pet deposit or any improper fee, you may use Form K to request a Director's Order for a refund. Download it or apply online at the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program.
Remember: If your landlord tries to charge you an illegal pet deposit or fee, keep all correspondence, receipts, and forms. These documents support your case if you need to apply for a refund or file a dispute.

Who Oversees Tenancy and Pet Policies in Nova Scotia?

All residential tenancy matters in Nova Scotia, including deposit limits and pet rules, are managed by the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program. This is the official body responsible for enforcing landlord and tenant laws, and handling disputes.

Laws about deposits and pets are set out in the provincial Residential Tenancies Act.[1]

What If a Landlord Still Tries to Charge a Pet Deposit?

If a landlord requests or keeps an illegal pet deposit or fee, take these steps:

  • Politely inform your landlord of the legal rule (no pet deposits or fees are permitted in Nova Scotia).
  • Request a refund in writing. Keep all paperwork.
  • If not resolved, fill out Form K: Application to Director to request an official order for the money back.
  • Contact the Residential Tenancies Program for help.

For tenants with pets, knowing the law will help you assert your rights and enjoy your home without unfair fees.

If you're planning a move, check out Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for practical advice.

To learn about tenancy rights and rules beyond deposits, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia page.

You can Browse apartments for rent in Canada and filter for pet-friendly options to make your search easier.

FAQ: Pet Deposits in Nova Scotia Rentals

  1. Can my landlord in Nova Scotia charge me any kind of pet deposit or pet fee?
    No. Landlords are not allowed to charge pet deposits, pet fees, or cleaning fees related to pets. Only a single refundable security deposit (up to half a month's rent) is legal.
  2. If my pet causes damage, can my landlord keep my security deposit?
    Your landlord may apply part or all of your security deposit toward damages caused by pets, as long as they provide evidence and follow the rules for security deposit deductions at move-out.
  3. Does my landlord have to allow pets just because pet deposits aren't legal?
    No. Landlords can lawfully set "no pets" rules or restrict certain pets, as long as these rules are clear in your lease and do not violate human rights protections (e.g., for service animals).
  4. What should I do if I'm wrongly charged a pet deposit?
    Politely notify your landlord of the law, request a refund, and if needed, use Form K to apply to the Residential Tenancies Program for assistance.
  5. Where can I find pet-friendly rentals in Nova Scotia?
    Many rental sites allow searching for pet-friendly listings—consider using trusted platforms like Houseme for your search.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants with Pets

  • Pet deposits and pet fees are not allowed in Nova Scotia—only the security deposit applies.
  • Always review your lease and watch for any illegal extra charges, especially related to pets.
  • If in doubt or in dispute, contact the Residential Tenancies Program or use official forms to protect your rights.

Understanding the rules helps ensure a positive experience for tenants who love their pets!

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act, S.N.S. 2000, c. 31. See the full legislation text: Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia)
  2. Residential Tenancies Program, Government of Nova Scotia. Official government portal

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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