Pet Rules for Condos and Apartments in Yukon: A Tenant’s Guide

Many Yukon tenants wonder how pet policies differ between apartments and condominiums, especially when moving with animals. While pets can be a source of comfort and companionship, managing their presence in rental homes involves understanding territorial rules and the governing laws. If you're searching for a pet-friendly Yukon home, it's essential to learn how the regulations apply to condos and standard apartments.

Understanding Pet Policies in Yukon Rental Properties

Yukon rental rules regarding pets are governed by both the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1] and, for condominiums, by the specific condo corporation’s bylaws. The key difference is that apartments typically fall solely under the Act, while condos are also subject to condo board rules.

Key Differences: Condos vs. Apartments

• Apartments: The landlord decides if pets are allowed. This is often outlined in your rental agreement. If pets aren't mentioned, always clarify before signing. After you sign, any new restrictions usually require your agreement unless there’s a reasonable legal basis for change.
• Condos: Condo boards can adopt bylaws banning, restricting, or allowing certain pets, regardless of what your landlord or property manager says. Even if your lease allows pets, a condo bylaw rules over your agreement in most cases.

How the Law Applies in Yukon

The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) does not give tenants a default right to keep pets. If you have, or plan to get, a pet, you must:

• Check your written rental agreement for a pet policy section
• For condos, request the latest bylaws from your landlord or property manager
• Get written permission before bringing a new pet into the home

If you have questions about rights and obligations as a tenant, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Common Yukon Pet Policy Restrictions

Pet rules in Yukon often address the following:

• Size, Breed, or Number Limits: Some buildings set maximum pet sizes, restrict certain breeds, or cap the number of animals per unit.
• Noise and Nuisance: Owners are responsible for keeping pets from disturbing neighbours. Continuous complaints can lead to required removal of the pet.
• Damage Deposits: Landlords can require a pet damage deposit. This must be reasonable and specified in the agreement; it cannot exceed one month’s rent according to the Act^[1].
• Service Animals: Special protections apply for bona fide service animals; rules cannot override a tenant’s rights if certified documentation is provided.

Routine apartment or condo maintenance is still required—tenants and landlords share responsibilities. For guidance on common issues like repairs or pest problems associated with pets, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

What to Do if There’s a Dispute

If you believe your landlord or condo board is unfairly enforcing, changing, or creating new pet policies after you move in, you can:

• Start by opening a conversation. Seek clarification and ask for all policies in writing.
• If unresolved, you may apply to the Yukon Landlord and Tenant Board for dispute resolution.

Official Forms for Yukon Tenants with Pet Disputes

• Application to Landlord and Tenant Board
  Used when you need a ruling on an unresolved dispute, such as pet restrictions or eviction threats regarding pets. Download the latest version directly from the Yukon government official forms page.

Example: If your new landlord suddenly introduces a pet ban after you’ve moved in with your approved cat, use the official form to request a hearing and present your evidence.

Moving In? Check Pet Policies First!

Before signing a lease, always:

• Confirm the pet policy with your landlord or property manager and, if renting a condo, ask specifically for the current condo bylaws
• Request all pet-related policies in writing for your records
• If bringing a pet to a new home, consider a pre-move inspection to document the unit’s condition to avoid deposit disputes

If you’re searching for your next home, Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to explore options in Yukon and beyond.

For a complete picture of your local rights, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

FAQ: Pets in Yukon Apartments and Condos

1. Can my landlord ban pets in Yukon apartments?
   Yes. Unless your written agreement says you can have a pet, landlords have the right to prohibit pets in apartments, as per Yukon’s rental laws.
2. Can condo boards ban pets even if my lease allows them?
   Usually, yes. Condo bylaws take priority over lease agreements, so always check current building rules before assuming your pet is allowed.
3. Are there extra deposits or fees for pets?
   Landlords can request a pet damage deposit (max one month’s rent) if you have an animal. Make sure any deposit is clearly outlined in your lease and get a receipt.
4. Do service animals have special protections?
   Yes. Service animals are generally exempt from pet bans, but you may need to supply official documentation.
5. What should I do if I have a dispute about pet policies?
   Try resolving it directly first. If you cannot, apply to the Yukon Landlord and Tenant Board for a formal decision.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Read your rental agreement and (for condos) the condo bylaws before signing if you have or plan to have a pet.
• Landlords and condo boards can set pet restrictions. Service animals are typically protected.
• For disputes, Yukon tenants can apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board using the latest official forms.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Landlord and Tenant Board – dispute applications, forms, information
• Yukon Landlord and Tenant Information – rights, laws, and useful contacts
• Yukon Human Rights Commission – for questions about service animal accommodation
• Find more tips in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon

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1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon). Yukon Government Services. Current as of 2024.
2. Yukon Landlord and Tenant Board. Official Dispute Resolution Board.
3. Landlord and Tenant Board Official Forms. Yukon.ca.

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