Pets are part of many Saskatchewan households, but as a tenant, you might wonder: Can your landlord legally refuse to allow pets in your rental unit? This guide explores the rules around pet restrictions for residential tenancies in Saskatchewan, your rights, and what happens if you need an exception—for example, for a service animal. Read on to understand your options, obligations, and where to get support if pet policies cause a dispute.
Pet Policies: What Landlords Can and Cannot Do
In Saskatchewan, landlords are allowed to set pet policies for rental properties. This means your landlord can decide whether pets are permitted, restrict the type or size of pet, or ban them altogether. All rules about pets must be clearly stated in the tenancy agreement signed by both the landlord and the tenant.
- No-provision for pets: If the written lease or tenancy agreement does not mention pets, you should seek your landlord’s permission before bringing a pet to avoid potential legal issues.
- Pet restrictions: Landlords can include rules limiting the number, type, size, or even breed of pet.
- Pet deposits: Landlords may ask for a pet damage deposit in addition to the regular security deposit. In Saskatchewan, the pet damage deposit can be set at up to one month’s rent, and only if pets are allowed Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
It is important to note that pet policies are legal under the Office of Residential Tenancies and governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)[1].
Are There Exceptions? Service Animals and Medical Needs
Some tenants require animals for medical reasons, such as guide dogs or certified service animals. Under human rights legislation, landlords must accommodate tenants who need a service animal for disability-related reasons, even if there is a "no-pets" policy. Documentation from an authorized health care provider may be required to prove the need for a service animal.
If you face discrimination or refusal, you can file a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission. Tenants should document all communication and ensure they have written evidence if requesting exceptions due to medical needs.
What Happens If You Break a Pet Policy?
If you bring a pet into your unit against your landlord’s rules, you could be considered in breach of your lease. This could result in:
- A written warning from your landlord
- An order to remove the pet
- Potential eviction proceedings if the breach continues
The process and possible consequences should be clearly outlined in your rental agreement. Make sure you fully understand any clauses about pets before signing. For more on your responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Important Official Forms for Tenants with Pet-Related Concerns
Tenants and landlords may need to use official forms when pet policy issues arise. In Saskatchewan, the main relevant forms include:
- Application for Possession (Form 8): Used by a landlord to seek an order from the Office of Residential Tenancies for possession (including in cases where tenants have breached lease conditions such as a pet ban).
Use: If you receive this, it means your landlord is seeking to end your tenancy due to a breach. Respond by preparing your side of the story and, if needed, applying for a hearing.
Access Form 8 and other forms (Saskatchewan Official Source) - Request for Hearing (Form 5): Used if you wish to dispute a landlord’s application or defend your right to remain in the unit.
Use: Submit when you want to present your case about pets or service animals before a hearing officer.
View Request for Hearing Form (Saskatchewan)
Resolving Pet-Related Disputes
If you and your landlord disagree about pets or a pet deposit, first try to resolve the issue directly by discussing and reviewing your lease agreement together. If you are unable to come to an agreement, you may contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for mediation or to apply for a dispute resolution hearing.
For more information on resolving conflicts and other common issues, reference Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
Summary of Your Rights and Next Steps
- Landlords in Saskatchewan can include pet bans or restrictions in leases
- Landlords must accommodate service animals for tenants with disabilities
- Pet damage deposits may apply but cannot exceed one month’s rent
- Disputes can be addressed through the Office of Residential Tenancies
For more on your legal protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
If you're looking for a pet-friendly home, you can Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pets in Saskatchewan Rentals
- Can my landlord refuse to allow any pets?
Yes. Saskatchewan landlords can ban or restrict pets through the terms of your lease or rental agreement. - Is a pet deposit always required?
No. However, if your landlord allows pets, they can request a pet deposit—up to one month’s rent—on top of the standard security deposit. - Are landlords required to allow service animals?
Yes. Landlords must make reasonable accommodation for certified service animals even if there is a no-pet policy, as required by human rights law. - Can a landlord evict me for having a pet when it’s not allowed?
Yes, a landlord can pursue eviction if you keep a pet in breach of the lease agreement. There is a legal process you are entitled to—see "Request for Hearing" above if you wish to challenge this. - What should I do if there’s a dispute about animals in my rental?
Start by communicating in writing with your landlord. If unresolved, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for assistance.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Government of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing Overview
- Office of Residential Tenancies (Saskatchewan) – Find forms, how-to guides, and contact information
- Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission: File a Complaint – For issues related to service animals or discrimination
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan – Key facts and overview of legal rights
