Can Idaho Landlords Charge Pet Rent? Rules and Limits Explained

Many renters in Idaho wonder whether landlords can charge extra for pets—and if there are any limits. Understanding your rights and obligations around pet rent, fees, and deposits can help you feel secure in your rental home. Here’s what Idaho state law says, how these charges work, and where to get help if you have concerns.

What Is Pet Rent, and How Does It Work in Idaho?

Pet rent is a recurring fee that some landlords charge on top of monthly rent if renters have animals in their homes. It is not a one-time fee, but rather an ongoing additional charge to allow pets in the rental unit.

In Idaho, rental terms, including pet rent, are mostly governed by private lease agreements. No Idaho state law prohibits pet rent or sets a maximum amount. Landlords and tenants are free to negotiate terms as long as everything is spelled out in the signed rental agreement.^[1]

Pet Rent Versus Other Charges: Understanding the Differences

• Pet rent: A monthly charge added to regular rent for having a pet.
• Pet deposit: A one-time, refundable deposit to cover potential pet damage.
• Pet fee: A one-time, non-refundable fee to allow a pet on the property.

Each of these charges is separate, and landlords may charge one or more of them if it’s allowed in your lease.

Are There Limits or Caps on Pet Rent in Idaho?

Currently, Idaho law does not place any limit or cap on pet rent amounts. Landlords set these fees as part of private agreements, and there is no statewide regulation on how much can be charged for pet rent, pet deposits, or pet fees.^[2]

For standard security deposits (which do not specifically address pets), there’s also no limit under Idaho law. However, the full deposit—including any part designated for pets—must be returned within 21 days after you move out, unless deductions are outlined in your lease and itemized by your landlord.^[3]

Special Rules for Service and Assistance Animals

Federal and state fair housing laws protect renters with disabilities. Idaho landlords cannot charge additional pet rent, deposits, or fees for service animals or emotional support animals (also called assistance animals). These animals are not considered pets under the law.^[4]

How Should Pet Rent and Deposits Be Listed in Your Lease?

Any charges—for pets or otherwise—must be spelled out in your written lease. Be sure your agreement includes:

• The type and amount of any pet rent, fee, or deposit
• Whether pet deposits are refundable and under what conditions
• Clear definitions distinguishing pets from service or assistance animals

If it’s not in your lease, your landlord may not have the legal right to demand it later. Always get agreements in writing and keep copies for your records.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Rental Agreement/Lease (no standard state form):
  • When/How Used: This is the primary contract detailing all pet-related charges. You should receive and sign a written lease before moving in.
  • Idaho Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Manual
• Complaint of Housing Discrimination (IHFA Fair Housing Complaint Form):
  • When/How Used: File this if you are being charged pet rent or fees for a service/assistance animal.
  • Idaho Housing and Finance Association: Fair Housing Complaint Form

What to Do If You Disagree With Pet Fees or Charges

If you believe you’re being charged pet rent unfairly (e.g., for a service or assistance animal) or in a way not listed in your lease:

• Review your signed lease and any pet addendums
• Speak with your landlord to clarify any unclear terms
• Seek advice from local legal aid or the Idaho Attorney General’s office
• File the appropriate complaint if discrimination is involved

The official body that administers landlord-tenant laws in Idaho is the Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. There is no separate tribunal for residential tenancies, but you can also refer disputes to your local court if necessary.

FAQ: Pet Rent and Fees in Idaho

1. Can my landlord raise pet rent during my lease?
   If you have a fixed-term lease, your landlord cannot change pet rent until renewal unless your agreement allows for it. For month-to-month agreements, increases require proper notice as outlined in your lease.
2. Is there a limit on how much pet deposit a landlord can charge?
   No, Idaho law does not set a maximum for pet deposits or total security deposits—these amounts are negotiable but should be fair and reasonable.
3. Does my landlord have to refund a pet deposit when I move out?
   Any refundable pet deposit must be returned—minus only lawful deductions—within 21 days of move-out if your pet did not cause damage.
4. Can a landlord refuse pets altogether?
   Yes, unless it’s a qualified service or assistance animal. Landlords can set a "no pets" policy, but this does not apply to assistance animals for disabilities.
5. Are emotional support animals protected the same as service animals?
   Yes. Under fair housing laws, landlords cannot charge extra fees or deny reasonable accommodation requests for both service animals and emotional support animals.

Key Takeaways for Idaho Renters

• Landlords in Idaho can legally charge pet rent, deposits, and fees with no state cap, as long as it’s in your signed lease.
• Service animals and emotional support animals are always exempt from pet rent and pet-related fees.
• All charges must be clearly spelled out in your written rental agreement.

Understanding these basic rules can help you confidently negotiate and review pet policies in your next Idaho lease.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Manual – Official state guidance for landlords and tenants
• Idaho Housing and Finance Association Fair Housing – File discrimination complaints
• Idaho Court Assistance Office: Landlord & Tenant Resources – Forms and help with rental disputes
• U.S. HUD: File a Fair Housing Complaint

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1. See the Idaho Landlord and Tenant Act for residential tenancy laws.
2. Idaho law does not set dollar limits on pet rent or deposits: Idaho Attorney General Landlord and Tenant Manual.
3. Deposit return timelines: Idaho Code § 6-321.
4. Fair housing protections for service and assistance animals: Idaho Housing & Finance Fair Housing.

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