Eviction Over Pets in Saskatchewan: Tenant Rights & Steps

If you’re a tenant in Saskatchewan and facing eviction due to a pet, it’s important to know your rights, relevant rules, and the steps you can take. Saskatchewan’s rental laws aim to protect both tenants and landlords fairly. Understanding your obligations and the landlord’s legal process can help you stay in your home or resolve disputes regarding pets.

Pets in Saskatchewan Rentals: What the Law Says

In Saskatchewan, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles all residential tenancy disputes, including eviction over pets. The primary law is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1].

• Landlords can restrict or ban pets, but must outline any "no pets" policies in the rental agreement.
• If you signed a lease that prohibits pets, bringing one in could lead to eviction unless you get written permission.
• If your lease allows pets, you must still follow any related rules (e.g., noise, property maintenance).

While some buildings are pet-friendly, others strictly prohibit animals. Always review your rental agreement and make sure you understand its terms.

When Can a Landlord Try to Evict You Over a Pet?

A landlord may issue an eviction notice if:

• You keep a pet despite a "no pets" clause in your lease.
• Your pet causes damage, disturbs neighbors, or affects safety.
• You breach additional pet-related terms (e.g., not cleaning up after your animal).

Eviction is a legal process, and tenants have the right to respond or dispute a notice. If your landlord claims your pet is a health or safety concern, this must be supported by evidence.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice Over a Pet

Receiving an eviction notice is stressful, but Saskatchewan law outlines steps both landlord and tenant must follow. An eviction cannot take place on the spot—a required notice and fair process must occur.

• Step 1: Read the Notice Carefully
  Check if the notice is in writing, states the reason, and includes the date by which you must move out. In Saskatchewan, landlords typically use Form 7 - Notice to Vacate (form name may vary).
  • Official tenancy forms and notices
  • If you’re unsure, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies to confirm if the form is valid.
• Step 2: Review Your Rental Agreement
  Check if you agreed to a "no pets" clause. If there’s no such clause or you believe the notice is unfair, you can dispute it.
• Step 3: Try to Resolve the Situation Informally
  Talk to your landlord. Sometimes problems can be solved by setting additional rules, paying for damages, or providing guarantees about your pet’s behavior.
• Step 4: File a Dispute (If Needed)
  If you believe the eviction is unjust, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies to have the notice reviewed. This must be done promptly—typically within 15 days of receiving the eviction notice.

For more on tenant and landlord roles regarding pets, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Dispute an Eviction Notice (Step-by-Step)

If you decide to dispute, use the Application for Hearing (Form 6) provided by the ORT. Here’s how:

1. Obtain Form 6 from the Government of Saskatchewan Tenancy Forms page.
2. Fill in your details and the details of your landlord. Clearly state the reasons you believe the eviction is unjustified—for example, “my lease does not prohibit pets” or “no evidence of disturbance.”
3. Gather any supporting documents: your lease, emails with your landlord, vet records, photos, etc.
4. Submit the application to the Office of Residential Tenancies and pay any applicable fee.
5. Attend the scheduled hearing (in person, by phone, or virtually). Present your case clearly and bring all evidence.

Common Outcomes When Facing Pet Eviction

The ORT adjudicator will consider both sides. Results may include:

• Dismissal of the eviction notice if it’s found to be unjust or the rules were unclear
• Allowing you to stay if you remove the pet by a specific date
• Upholding the eviction if there’s a clear breach and disruption

Tenants and landlords may also agree on new terms as part of a mediation process.

For broader renting guidance in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Looking for pet-friendly housing options? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca.

FAQ: Tenants Facing Pet-Related Evictions in Saskatchewan

1. Can my landlord evict me for having a pet if my rental agreement says nothing about pets?
   If your agreement is silent about pets, it may be harder for a landlord to evict you—consult the Office of Residential Tenancies to clarify your rights.
2. What should I do if my pet is a support animal?
   Support animals may be protected under human rights law, even in "no pets" buildings. Have documentation ready and seek advice from the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
3. How fast do I need to respond to an eviction notice over my pet?
   You should respond within 15 days of receiving the notice if you intend to formally dispute it through the Office of Residential Tenancies.
4. Can my landlord keep my deposit for pet damages?
   Yes, if your pet causes damage, deductions from your deposit are allowed. For more, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Review your lease carefully for pet clauses—this will determine if your landlord’s complaint is valid.
• Act quickly if you receive an eviction notice: read the document, seek clarification, try informal resolution, then use the official dispute process if needed.
• The Office of Residential Tenancies offers a fair and accessible way to resolve rental disputes in Saskatchewan.

If you need to find a new, pet-friendly place, search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for the latest listings across Canada.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies – For filing disputes, finding forms, and official guidance (Phone: 1-888-215-2222)
• Saskatchewan Rental Tenancy Forms – Eviction, dispute, and notice forms
• Saskatchewan Advocate for Tenants – Advice and support for rental disputes
• Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission – For support animal or discrimination concerns

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)
3. Saskatchewan Tenancy Official Forms and Notices

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy