Can my landlord increase pet rent during my lease term?

Generally, your landlord cannot raise pet rent until your current lease ends, unless you agree in writing.

Are Connecticut landlords allowed to charge pet rent for service or emotional support animals?

No. Both Connecticut and federal law prohibit any pet rent, deposits, or fees for service or support animals.

How do I file a complaint about pet rent or deposit issues?

Write to your landlord first. If unresolved, file with the Connecticut Housing Court or Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

Is there a state limit on the amount of pet rent in Connecticut?

No specific legal cap exists for monthly pet rent, but deposit totals cannot exceed state limits.

Where can I get official forms and assistance about pet rent disputes?

You can access forms from the Housing Session Courts or CHRO and get guidance from state housing authorities.

Connecticut Pet Rent Laws: What Renters Need to Know

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

Many Connecticut renters wonder if their landlord can charge additional rent just for having a pet. Understanding the rules about pet rent and related fees is crucial for both renters and landlords in Connecticut. This guide breaks down your rights, what landlords can and cannot ask for, and what to do if you need support as a renter with pets in Connecticut.

Can Landlords Charge Pet Rent in Connecticut?

Yes, landlords in Connecticut may charge pet rent—an extra monthly fee for keeping a pet in a rental property. This is legal as long as it is clearly stated in your rental agreement or lease^[1]. However, there are specific limits on what landlords can ask for upfront, like security deposits or pet-related deposits.

Is There a Legal Limit or Cap on Pet Rent?

Connecticut law does not set a specific dollar limit or cap for monthly pet rent. The amount is up to the discretion of the landlord, but it must be agreed on in writing as part of your lease contract. It is illegal for a landlord to impose new pet rent after you have already signed your lease unless both parties agree to an amended contract.

Security Deposits and Pet Fees

While landlords may charge pet rent, Connecticut does limit how much they can collect for security deposits, which might also cover pet-related damage:

For renters under age 62, the total security deposit (including any "pet deposit") cannot exceed two months’ rent.
For renters aged 62 and over, the security deposit is capped at one month’s rent. Pet deposits cannot be charged separately if they would cause the total deposit to exceed this legal maximum.

Landlords must follow Connecticut’s security deposit laws^[2] regarding handling, returning, and documenting these funds.

Are Pet Fees Refundable in Connecticut?

Any part of the deposit taken specifically for damage must be refundable, but landlords sometimes charge a non-refundable "pet fee". If this is listed in your signed lease and does not push the total deposit beyond the legal cap, it may be enforced. Always check your lease and ask your landlord about any non-refundable fees in writing.

Exceptions: Service and Emotional Support Animals

Connecticut law and federal law do not allow landlords to charge pet rent, deposit, or fees for a certified service animal or a verified emotional support animal (ESA). Landlords may ask for reasonable proof of the need for such animals but cannot treat them as regular pets per the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) guidelines^[3]. If a landlord tries to charge you for a service or support animal, you may file a discrimination complaint.

If you plan to get a pet, always ask your landlord for approval in writing before bringing animals into your rental—unless you have a legally protected service or support animal.

Official Forms Renters May Need

Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form JD-HM-8: Used by tenants to address housing matters such as improper deposit handling or discrimination.
Download JD-HM-8 from Connecticut Judicial Branch.
Example: If your landlord refuses to return a pet deposit, you might use this form to file with your local housing court.
Complaint of Discrimination (CHRO Form): For reporting illegal fees for service/support animals.
Find CHRO Complaint Form and instructions here.
Example: File if your landlord charges a fee for your service or emotional support animal.

Connecticut’s Housing Session Courts handle disputes over rent, deposits, and discrimination for renters.

What If You Disagree With a Pet Rent or Fee?

If you think you have been unfairly charged, take the following action steps:

Review your lease to check what is included about pet rent or deposits.
Communicate in writing with your landlord for clarification or to request a refund.
If you believe a law has been broken (for example, being overcharged for a deposit or being charged for a service animal), contact the Connecticut CHRO or local housing court.
Use the official forms above to file a complaint if a resolution cannot be reached.

FAQs: Connecticut Pet Rent and Renter Rights

Can my landlord increase pet rent during my lease term?
Generally, pet rent cannot be increased until your current lease ends unless you agree in writing to a change.
Is pet rent allowed for emotional support or service animals?
No, Connecticut and federal law prohibit charging pet rent, deposits, or fees for service or emotional support animals.
How can I dispute a wrongful pet fee or deposit?
Write to your landlord, and if unresolved, file a complaint with the CHRO or with the local housing court using official forms.
Are non-refundable pet fees legal in Connecticut?
Only if the total up-front charges (including deposits and fees) don’t exceed state caps, and the fee is clearly stated in your lease.
Where can I get official help if I have a problem with pet rent?
You can contact the Connecticut Housing Session Court or CHRO for free information, complaint forms, and support.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

Landlords can charge pet rent, but not for service or emotional support animals.
Security and pet deposit caps apply—never pay more than state limits.
Document all agreements in writing and turn to state agencies if you need help.

Being informed about Connecticut’s pet rent rules helps you protect your rights and avoid common mistakes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session Courts: For concerns about deposits, landlord disagreements, or starting a case.
Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO): For discrimination or disability accommodation disputes.
Connecticut Department of Housing: Information on housing laws, tenant assistance, and rental support programs.
Read the full Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 830 – Landlord and Tenant