Alaska Pet Rent Laws: What Renters Need to Know in 2024

Renting an apartment in Alaska with a furry friend? If you're wondering whether your landlord can charge pet rent—and if there are limits—this article breaks down the current Alaska laws on pet rent, deposits, and your renter protections. Get clear guidance and links to official resources so you can rent confidently.

Understanding Pet Rent in Alaska

In Alaska, landlords are legally allowed to charge pet rent if they choose. Pet rent is an additional monthly fee charged to tenants who have pets in the rental unit. It is distinct from a pet deposit, which is a one-time refundable fee. Understanding the difference between these fees is important for renters with animals.

What the Law Says: Pet Fees, Deposits, and Caps

Alaska's main law governing landlord-tenant relationships is the Alaska Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03).^[1] Here’s what it says about pet-related charges:

• Pet Rent: There is no state law that restricts how much landlords can charge monthly for pet rent. Landlords are free to set the amount, as long as it is specified in the rental agreement and applied equally.
• Pet Deposits: A landlord may require an additional pet deposit. However, the total deposit (including the standard and pet deposit) cannot exceed two months' rent for an unfurnished dwelling. For tenants over 62 years old, total deposits cannot exceed one month's rent.^[2]
• Non-Refundable Fees: Pet fees that are labeled 'non-refundable' must be clearly identified in the rental agreement. Pet deposits, if not labeled non-refundable, must be returned if no damage is done.

Are Assistance Animals and Service Dogs Treated the Same?

Under state and federal law, landlords cannot charge pet rent or pet deposits for trained service animals or assistance animals. These are not considered pets legally.^[3] If you have a service animal and you're asked for pet fees, refer to the Fair Housing Act and reach out to the Alaska Human Rights Commission for help.

How Pet Fees and Deposits Must Be Stated in Leases

Alaska law requires all additional fees—including pet rent and deposits—to be clearly described in your rental agreement. You should not be charged surprise fees after you sign your lease. Always ask for any pet rent or non-refundable fee details in writing.

What If You Disagree With a Pet Charge?

If you believe you’re being overcharged for pet rent or were charged an illegal fee, you have several options:

• Discuss your concerns with your landlord and reference Alaska’s Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03).
• If unresolved, you may submit a complaint to the Alaska Department of Law, Consumer Protection Unit.
• In deposit disputes, you can file a claim in your local Alaska District Court.

Key Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Complaint Form (Alaska Department of Law): If you believe your landlord has overcharged or not refunded your deposit, you can file a consumer complaint. Download the Consumer Complaint Form.
  Example: After moving out, your landlord refuses to return your pet deposit without cause. You would complete and submit this form to the Consumer Protection Unit.
• Small Claims Court Forms (Alaska District Courts): For deposit disputes, use the Small Claims Complaint Form.
  Example: If your landlord withholds your pet deposit without itemized damages, fill this out to begin a claim with your local District Court.

The Alaska Court System handles residential tenancy disputes, including those about fees and deposits.

Summary: Pet Rent at a Glance

• Landlords can charge monthly pet rent—there are no state caps.
• Pet deposits count toward the total deposit cap (two months for most renters).
• Service and assistance animals cannot be charged pet rent or deposits.
• All charges must be clearly stated in the lease.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord charge me both a pet deposit and pet rent in Alaska?
   Yes. Landlords may charge both, but the total security deposit—including any pet deposit—cannot exceed two months’ rent (or one month if you’re over 62).
2. Is there any limit on the amount of monthly pet rent in Alaska?
   No, there are no legal limits (caps) on monthly pet rent. It’s up to the landlord to set this rate and must be included in the lease agreement.
3. Can I refuse to pay pet rent if my pet is an assistance or service animal?
   No, landlords cannot legally charge pet rent, pet deposits, or fees for service or assistive animals under Alaska and federal law.
4. What forms should I use if I think my landlord overcharged me for a pet deposit?
   You can use the Alaska Consumer Complaint Form or file a Small Claims Complaint with the Alaska Court System.
5. If my landlord tries to add pet rent after I move in, is that allowed?
   No, any new charges added after the lease is signed require your written agreement. All fees must be disclosed upfront.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alaska Renters

• Landlords may charge pet rent and deposits, but deposits are capped by law.
• Service and assistance animals are exempt from all pet fees.
• Official state forms and the district court can help resolve disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection: For complaints about illegal or unfair charges.
• Alaska Court System: Handles small claims and deposit disputes.
• Alaska State Commission for Human Rights: Assistance with discrimination or service animal issues.
• Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education: Information on rights for renters with disabilities.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Alaska: Federal housing help and renter resources.

---

1. Alaska Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03)
2. Alaska Landlord & Tenant Act: What It Means to You (Official booklet, Section: Security Deposits)
3. Alaska State Commission for Human Rights: Fair Housing Laws

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations