Alabama Rules on Pet Rent: What Tenants Should Know

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Alabama published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Alabama

Many renters in Alabama have pets and want to understand their rights around extra charges in rental housing. As a tenant, it’s important to know what landlords are allowed to charge for pets—and what specific rules or limits exist under Alabama law. This guide explains pet rent, pet fees, and security deposit caps, helping you stay informed and empowered as a renter.

Pet Rent, Fees, and Deposits in Alabama: The Basics

Alabama landlords commonly ask for additional payments if you have a pet. These may include:

  • Pet rent: An extra monthly amount, in addition to your regular rent, for having a pet in the rental.
  • Pet fee: A one-time, nonrefundable charge for having a pet.
  • Pet deposit: A refundable deposit held in case a pet causes damage.

All of these fees must be clearly stated in your written lease. If something is not in your lease, your landlord cannot legally enforce it.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent in Alabama?

Yes, under Alabama law, landlords can charge pet rent, pet fees, or pet deposits as extra charges for tenants with animals [1]. There are no specific state laws in Alabama that prohibit or restrict landlords from charging recurring pet rent or setting a particular cap on pet-related monthly fees. The amount is generally determined by the landlord and agreed to in the lease.

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Are There Any Caps on Pet Fees and Deposits?

While Alabama does not limit the amount of recurring pet rent or fees, there is a state cap on total security deposits, which can affect how much pet deposit a landlord may request.

  • Alabama law limits the security deposit a landlord can collect to no more than one month’s rent.
  • However, pet deposits and specific pet-related nonrefundable fees may be charged in addition to the standard deposit. These extra amounts must be clearly listed in the lease.

For example: If your rent is $1,000 per month, your landlord could ask for a security deposit up to $1,000, plus an additional pet deposit or one-time nonrefundable pet fee.

Service Animals and Assistance Animals

If you have a service animal or emotional support animal, your landlord cannot charge you pet rent, pet fee, or pet deposit for that animal, under federal law and Alabama’s Fair Housing regulations. Service animals are not considered "pets" legally.

What Must Be Included in Your Lease?

  • All charges—pet rent, deposit, or fee—must appear in writing in your signed lease.
  • The lease should clearly define the type and amount of each pet-related charge.

If you have already signed a lease that does not mention pet rent or pet fees and your landlord tries to add one later, you have the right to ask for a written lease amendment before any new charges can be enforced.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

  • Alabama Residential Lease Agreement: This standard lease form from the Alabama Law Institute covers security deposit, rules on pets, and any additional fees (no official form number). Be sure to review or request the lease before signing.
    Find resources and template agreements at the Alabama Legislature Tenant Resources.
  • Notice of Security Deposit Refund or Withholding: If you move out, your landlord must return your deposit (minus deductions) within 60 days. If you dispute pet damage charges, you may need to respond in writing.
    For guidance, see Alabama security deposit refund requirements.

Example: If you disagree with a withheld pet deposit, send your landlord a letter disputing the charge, state reasons, and request documentation of actual damages.

Who Handles Disputes About Pet Fees or Deposits?

If you and your landlord cannot resolve a dispute regarding pet rent, fees, or deposits, you may seek help through local courts. Alabama does not have a dedicated state-level residential tenancy tribunal, but small claims courts handle landlord-tenant disputes. Get details from your local Alabama Small Claims Court.

If you need to challenge an unfair pet fee or claim a refund of deposit, start by sending a written letter to your landlord, then escalate to small claims court if necessary.

FAQ: Pet Rent and Pet Fees for Alabama Renters

  1. Can my landlord charge monthly pet rent in Alabama?
    Yes, Alabama landlords can include a monthly pet rent charge if it is clearly stated in your lease agreement.
  2. Is there a limit on how much pet rent or pet deposit a landlord can charge?
    No state law restricts the amount of pet rent or nonrefundable pet fees, but the standard security deposit (not including pet deposits/fees) is capped at one month's rent.
  3. Can I be charged pet fees for a service animal or assistance animal?
    No, landlords cannot charge pet rent, pet fee, or pet deposit for service animals or emotional support animals officially recognized under federal and state Fair Housing laws.
  4. What should I do if my landlord adds a pet fee after I sign the lease?
    Ask for a written amendment, and do not pay new fees not mentioned in your original lease. If the dispute continues, seek advice from a legal aid office or local court.
  5. Where do I get help if my landlord wrongfully keeps my pet deposit?
    Begin by sending your landlord a written dispute. If not resolved, file a claim in Alabama Small Claims Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alabama Renters

  • Landlords in Alabama can charge pet rent, pet deposits, and pet fees if these are spelled out in your lease.
  • Security deposit (excluding pet fees/deposits) is limited to one month’s rent, but extra pet charges may be added on top.
  • Service or assistance animals are exempt from pet-related charges.
  • When in doubt, get all agreements in writing and know your right to dispute unfair fees through small claims court if needed.

Knowing these rules keeps your renting experience safe for both you and your furry companions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Ala. Code § 35-9A-201)
  2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Alabama Tenant Rights
  3. U.S. Department of Justice: Assistance Animals in Housing

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

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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