Florida Pet Rent Laws: What Renters Should Know

Bringing a pet into your rental home can come with extra costs. If you’re renting in Florida, it’s important to understand when and how landlords can charge pet rent, what the law says, and your rights as a renter. This article explains current rules about pet rent, pet deposits, and fees, so you can make informed decisions about your lease and living situation.

Can Landlords Charge Pet Rent in Florida?

Yes, in Florida, landlords are generally allowed to charge pet rent as part of the lease agreement. Pet rent is a monthly fee added to your regular rent for keeping a pet on the property.

• No statewide caps: Florida law does not set a maximum amount that landlords can charge for pet rent.¹
• The amount can vary depending on the landlord and property.
• Pet rent is different from a one-time pet fee or pet deposit.

All charges related to pets must be clearly written into your lease agreement. If your landlord wants to start or raise pet rent, this typically can’t happen in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless you agree in writing.

Pet Fees and Pet Deposits

• Pet fee: A one-time, non-refundable payment for having a pet. There is no state-mandated maximum.
• Pet deposit: A refundable amount held in case your pet causes damage. Pet deposits are regulated as part of your security deposit.

Your total security deposit (including any pet deposit) cannot exceed the conditions agreed to in your lease, but Florida does not set a specific maximum on deposits.¹ Learn more about security deposit rules in Florida.

Important Exceptions: Service and Emotional Support Animals

Landlords cannot charge pet rent, fees, or deposits for service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs) that assist with a disability, in accordance with federal and state fair housing laws.²

• If you have a qualified service animal or a properly documented ESA, your landlord may not charge fees, even if the property has a "no pets" policy.

What Should Be in Your Lease?

• The lease should clearly state all charges related to pets, including monthly pet rent, deposits, and one-time fees.
• If you pay a pet deposit, your lease should specify if it is refundable and under what conditions.

Always keep a copy of your signed lease for reference.

Getting Your Pet Deposit Back

Under the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, if your pet has not caused damage and you have met all lease terms, pet deposits (as part of your security deposit) should be returned within 15 to 30 days after you move out.³

• If the landlord plans to keep some or all of the deposit for damages, they must give you notice in writing, usually within 30 days.

Official Complaint and Dispute Forms

• Security Deposit Dispute (no official state form): If you disagree with deposit deductions, send a written objection to your landlord within 15 days after you receive notice.
  Your objection letter should clearly state why you dispute the deduction. For sample language and detailed instructions, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Landlord-Tenant Law page.
• Service Animal/ESA Housing Discrimination Complaint: File a housing discrimination complaint online with the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR).
  Use the "Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire" when your landlord improperly charges for a lawful assistance animal.

If issues remain unresolved, renters may apply to the local court (county court in Florida) that handles residential tenancy disputes.

Where to Go for Decisions or Legal Process

Residential tenancy matters in Florida are handled by your local County Court’s Small Claims or Civil Division. For general housing rights guidance and filing court paperwork, visit the Florida State Courts System.

FAQ: Florida Pet Rent and Fees for Renters

1. Can my landlord increase pet rent at any time?
   No, your landlord cannot raise pet rent during a current fixed-term lease unless you agree in writing. Changes usually apply only at lease renewal.
2. Are there laws limiting how much pet rent can be charged in Florida?
   No, Florida law does not limit or cap pet rent. The amount must be specified in your lease agreement.
3. Is pet rent refundable when I move out?
   No, pet rent (a monthly fee) is not refundable. However, a refundable pet deposit should be returned if no damage occurred.
4. Can a landlord deny my request for a service animal or ESA?
   Landlords generally cannot deny a reasonable accommodation for a qualified service animal or properly documented ESA, and they may not charge pet fees for these animals.
5. How can I formally dispute unfair pet fees or deductions?
   You should send a written objection by mail to your landlord and, if needed, seek help from the Florida Commission on Human Relations.

Summary: What Florida Renters Should Remember

• Landlords can charge pet rent, but there’s no statewide limit—check your lease for details.
• Service animals and ESAs are protected, and you can’t be charged extra for them.
• Know your rights if disputing pet-related fees or deductions and seek official help if needed.

Get everything about pet-related costs in writing and review your lease agreement before signing or renewing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Landlord-Tenant Law — guides and official information for renters
• Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR): File a Housing Discrimination Complaint
• Florida State Courts System: Tenant Information — to find your local County Court and self-help forms
• For questions about your security deposit, see Florida’s Security Deposit Statute

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1. Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Part II, Ch. 83, Fla. Stat.)
2. Fair Housing Act - U.S. Department of Justice
3. Security Deposits: Section 83.49 Florida Statutes

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