How to Request Pet Accommodation as a Tenant in Saskatchewan

Many tenants in Saskatchewan want to keep pets in their rental homes, but not all landlords or buildings allow them. This article explains the process, your rights, and practical steps if you wish to request pet accommodation as a tenant in Saskatchewan. Understanding the legal background and requirements can help you approach your landlord effectively and lawfully.

Your Rights and Rental Agreements in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, there is no law requiring landlords to allow pets in rental housing. Most decisions are made by the landlord unless your need for a pet is related to a disability, in which case you may have grounds for a human rights accommodation.

• Standard rental agreements often include a 'no pets' clause.
• Some landlords may allow pets with conditions, such as an extra deposit or cleaning fee.
• For service or support animals related to a disability, tenants may request reasonable accommodation under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.

Always review your lease agreement before making a request. For a deeper understanding of both landlord and tenant rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Pet Accommodation and the Law

The key legislation governing residential renting in Saskatchewan is The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006¹. However, pet policies are mainly set by landlords, except when human rights issues apply.

Service and Support Animals

For tenants with disabilities, the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission recognizes the right to service or support animals as a reasonable accommodation. If you need a pet due to a medical need or disability, you may be able to request an exception to a 'no pets' rule.

How to Request Pet Accommodation

If your tenancy agreement prohibits pets but you wish to request permission—especially for a service or emotional support animal—follow these practical steps.

• Review your current lease regarding pet policies.
• Draft a written request explaining your situation and, if necessary, your need for accommodation due to a disability.
• Include supporting documents (medical letter, service animal certification, etc.).
• Submit your written request to your landlord and keep a copy for your records.

Landlords must consider accommodation requests tied to disabilities under human rights law but may still deny unenforceable or unreasonable requests. If refused and you believe it's discriminatory, consider filing a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.

Official Forms for Complaints or Disputes

• Application for Remedy (Form 7B): Used to apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) if your landlord refuses a legal accommodation request.
  Download Form 7B (PDF).
  Example: If your landlord will not consider your medical need for a support animal, complete and submit this form to request a hearing.
• Human Rights Complaint Form: File with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission if you believe the refusal is discriminatory. Download the Human Rights Complaint Form.

The main tribunal handling tenant and landlord disputes is the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

What Landlords Can Ask or Require

• Landlords may ask for documentation for service or support animals, but cannot require extra pet deposits for service animals related to a disability.
• For non-service pets, a landlord can request a reasonable pet deposit (not exceeding one month’s rent).
• Any pet damage at end of tenancy may be deducted from the deposit. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

If you’re granted pet accommodation, clarify with your landlord if there are extra rules or a pet agreement to sign. Keep communication in writing for your records.

Health and Safety Considerations

Your landlord must ensure the property remains safe and meets public health standards, with or without pets. For an overview, refer to Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

For those still searching for pet-friendly homes, Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for flexible options in Saskatchewan and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord refuse a pet if I have a disability?
   Landlords must consider accommodation requests for service or support animals needed for a disability. They may not refuse without justification under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.
2. Is there an official pet accommodation request form?
   No official "pet request" form exists; tenants should draft a clear written letter to the landlord explaining their need and supporting documents. For disputes, use the Application for Remedy (Form 7B) or file a human rights complaint.
3. How much is a pet deposit in Saskatchewan?
   For non-service animals, a pet deposit can be up to one month's rent and is refundable if no pet-related damage occurs.
4. Where do I go if my landlord refuses my service animal?
   File an Application for Remedy (Form 7B) with the Office of Residential Tenancies or submit a complaint to the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
5. Can a pet agreement change after I move in?
   If both parties agree, the rental agreement can be modified to allow pets with new terms. Keep all changes in writing.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Saskatchewan generally decide pet policies, but disability-related accommodation is legally protected.
• Tenants should make written requests for pet accommodation and keep all records.
• Know which forms to use if a dispute arises and contact the appropriate tribunal or commission for support.

Understanding your rights helps ensure clear communication and smoother negotiations when requesting pet accommodation in Saskatchewan rentals.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice – Renting and Leasing: General tenancy information and guides
• Office of Residential Tenancies: Apply for hearings or dispute resolution
• Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission: File discrimination complaints and learn about human rights accommodations
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: Provincial rights summary

---

1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Government of Saskatchewan)
2. Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission

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