Can my landlord require a nonrefundable pet fee in Arkansas?

Yes, Arkansas law allows landlords to charge nonrefundable pet fees if clearly stated in your lease agreement.

Is there a maximum limit on pet rent or pet fees under Arkansas law?

No, there is no statewide cap on pet rent or fees. The amount depends on your lease agreement.

Are service animals or emotional support animals exempt from pet fees?

Yes, landlords cannot charge pet rent, deposits, or fees for service animals and some emotional support animals as protected by federal law.

What should I do if a landlord adds pet fees not agreed upon in the lease?

Request written clarification and refuse to pay unauthorized charges. Seek support from the Arkansas Attorney General if needed.

Where can I file a complaint about pet rent or deposit disputes?

You can contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or file a complaint in your local district court's small claims division.

Arkansas Pet Rent Laws: What Renters Should Know

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Arkansas published: June 21, 2025

For many renters in Arkansas, having a pet is part of feeling at home. But questions often arise about whether landlords can charge pet rent, set pet fees, or require pet deposits. Understanding Arkansas law on this topic is essential for confidently renting with pets and knowing your financial responsibilities.

Pet Rent and Pet Fees in Arkansas: What Is Allowed?

Arkansas law does not prevent landlords from charging pet rent, nonrefundable pet fees, or requiring additional deposits related to pets. These charges and their amounts should be clearly outlined within your lease agreement.

Pet rent: An extra monthly charge on top of regular rent for each pet.
Pet fee: Usually a one-time, sometimes nonrefundable fee for keeping a pet.
Pet deposit: A refundable deposit to cover potential pet damages, separate from the regular security deposit (unless the lease states otherwise).

Are There Caps on Pet Rent or Fees?

Currently, Arkansas law does not set a maximum cap on pet rent, pet fees, or pet deposits. This means the landlord can generally set the amount, unless your lease states a limit. It’s important to review your lease closely before signing.

Exceptions for Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Renters with a service animal or a qualified emotional support animal have special protections under federal law. Landlords cannot charge pet rent, pet deposits, or pet fees for service animals^[1]. Documentation may be required to verify the animal’s status, but extra fees are not allowed.

Getting Everything in Writing

All pet-related charges—pet rent, fees, deposits, or restrictions—must be stated in your written lease agreement. Never rely on verbal agreements alone. If your landlord tries to charge a fee not listed in the lease, you have the right to request clarification in writing.

If you add a pet during your tenancy, make sure to sign a lease addendum reflecting any new fees or terms.

Security Deposit Protections in Arkansas

While Arkansas allows landlords to collect a security deposit (which may include pet deposits), there are general rules:

For most rentals, the landlord may not require a security deposit greater than the equivalent of two months' rent^[2].
This limit does not apply to all rental properties (for example, landlords with fewer than six units may be exempt).

Your lease should specify whether the pet deposit is part of the total security deposit or an extra amount. Make sure to get written receipts for all payments. Upon move-out, the landlord must return the refundable security deposit (with any deductions listed) within 60 days.

Filing a Complaint or Seeking Help

If a landlord charges a pet fee or deposit that violates your lease or Arkansas law, you may:

Communicate in writing and request correction
File a complaint with the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
File a civil complaint in the local district court

There are currently no required official forms or standardized state-level applications specific to pet fees or rent disputes. If pursuing action in court, the Small Claims Complaint is used:

Form Name: Small Claims Complaint
When to Use: If you believe you have been wrongly charged fees or have not received your refundable deposit back, you can use this in district court (small claims division) for disputes up to $5,000.
How to Use: Complete the form and file with your local district court clerk. Example: A renter is charged $500 for unauthorized "pet cleaning" not in the lease; they may use this form to demand the money's return.
Arkansas Small Claims Complaint Official Form

Which Agency Handles Rental Disputes?

In Arkansas, the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division assists renters with questions and disputes, but court actions are handled by the local District Courts (Small Claims Division) in your county. Arkansas does not have a specialized residential tenancy tribunal.

Key Arkansas Law Covering Rent, Fees, and Deposits

The relevant legislation is Arkansas Code Annotated § 18-16-301 et seq. (Security Deposit Law). Be sure to review your rights and obligations under this law^[2].

FAQs: Pet Rent & Deposits in Arkansas

Can my landlord require a nonrefundable pet fee?
Yes. Arkansas law does not prohibit nonrefundable pet fees, as long as they are in your signed lease.
Is there a statewide limit on how much pet rent a landlord can charge?
No. There is no state-imposed cap. Check your lease for specifics.
Do service animals count as pets under Arkansas rental law?
No. Service animals (and often emotional support animals) are not considered pets and are protected by federal law from extra charges.
What if my landlord tries to add a pet fee in the middle of my lease?
Landlords cannot unilaterally add new charges not in the original lease without your agreement. Request written clarification and seek help if needed.
What steps can I take if I think my rights under Arkansas pet rent law are being violated?
Gather documentation, communicate in writing, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office, and consider small claims court if the issue remains unresolved.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

Landlords may charge pet rent and fees, with no state limit, provided it is in the lease.
Service animal owners cannot be charged pet-related fees.
Refundable deposits related to pets count towards the general security deposit cap for most rentals.

Always read your lease carefully and ask questions before signing it, especially concerning pets and fees.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – For complaints and renter legal help
Arkansas Security Deposit Law (Arkansas Code § 18-16-301 et seq.)
Small Claims Complaint Form and Filing Instructions
Find your District Court (Small Claims)
HUD Guidance on Assistance Animals

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Assistance Animals Guidance
Arkansas Code Annotated § 18-16-301 et seq. – Security Deposit Law