Can Minnesota Landlords Charge Pet Rent? Rules Explained

If you’re renting in Minnesota and have (or hope to get) a pet, knowing the rules around pet rent and pet deposits can help you plan and protect your rights. Minnesota law allows landlords to charge some types of pet fees, but important guidelines and limitations apply. Here’s what every renter should know about pet rent and related charges.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent in Minnesota?

Yes, Minnesota landlords can charge pet rent as an extra monthly fee for tenants with pets. There is currently no state law that specifically prohibits or limits how much a landlord can charge for pet rent, as long as the terms are agreed to by both parties in the lease. However, there are related laws and best practices that renters should understand before paying pet rent.

What Types of Pet Fees and Deposits Can Be Charged?

• Pet Rent: An extra monthly charge for tenants who have pets. There are no statewide caps on the amount.
• Pet Deposit: A refundable deposit held to cover potential damage caused by a pet. This is separate from the regular security deposit.
• Non-refundable Pet Fee: Sometimes charged up front and not returned at the end of the lease. There are no provisions in Minnesota law specifically allowing or prohibiting these, so carefully review your lease agreement.

By law, the Minnesota Security Deposit Law only places a cap on the total security deposit for subsidized housing (not market-rate units). For most market-rate leases, the law does not set a statewide maximum deposit but does require timely return of any refundable deposits at lease end.^[1]

Are There Limitations or Protections for Renters with Pets?

• Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals: Under federal and Minnesota law, landlords cannot charge additional pet rent, deposits, or fees for trained service animals or recognized emotional support animals. These are not considered pets under the law.^[2]
• Security Deposit Returns: Any refundable deposit—including a pet deposit—must be returned by the landlord within 21 days after you move out, unless there are legitimate charges for pet-related damage as documented.
• Written Lease Clauses: Any fees, rent increases, or pet-specific rules must be clearly stated in your written lease. Always ask for clarification and document all payments.

How Are Pet Rent, Fees, and Deposits Documented?

In Minnesota, there is no standard statewide form specifically for pet rent. Your lease agreement should spell out:

• The amount of any monthly pet rent
• Any refundable or non-refundable pet deposits or fees
• The total allowable security deposit (if capped, such as in subsidized housing)

Landlords typically use personalized leases or standardized model forms. Renters in subsidized housing may be asked to complete specific forms by local agencies, so always request copies of all documents you sign regarding your pet.

Official Tenant Complaint Forms

If you believe you’ve been wrongly charged for a service animal, or faced discrimination, you may file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR). The relevant form is:

• Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Form – Use this to report illegal pet fees for service or support animals. Access the MDHR Complaint Form and instructions. Complete and submit online, or call for support.

Example: If you are being charged pet rent for an emotional support animal and your housing provider refuses to remove the charge, you can submit this form to MDHR for investigation.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Minnesota?

The state agency overseeing landlord-tenant issues is the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office (Landlord and Tenant Handbook). For cases involving fair housing or discrimination, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights oversees enforcement and complaint resolution, especially related to disability accommodations.

The primary legislation addressing rental housing is the Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Statutes, Chapter 504B.^[1]

1. Can my landlord charge me monthly pet rent in Minnesota?
   Yes, landlords may charge monthly pet rent at any amount they choose unless the lease agreement limits it. There are no statewide caps.
2. Is there a maximum pet deposit or fee allowed in Minnesota?
   For most market-rate rentals, no maximum exists. In subsidized housing, deposit caps may apply. Always check your lease and local rules.
3. Are service or emotional support animals exempt from pet fees?
   Yes. Under state and federal law, you cannot be charged pet rent or deposits for service animals or authorized emotional support animals.
4. What should I do if my landlord wrongly charges a pet fee for my support animal?
   You can file a discrimination complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Use their online form or call for help.
5. When must my pet deposit be returned after move-out?
   Your landlord must return any refundable pet or regular security deposit within 21 days, deducting only for legitimate pet damages.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General – Landlord and Tenant Rights Handbook
• Minnesota Department of Human Rights – File a Housing Complaint
• LawHelpMN – Housing Issues and Legal Aid
• Minnesota Landlord and Tenant Statutes, Chapter 504B

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1. [1] See Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant Law
2. [2] Minnesota Department of Human Rights – Service Animals and U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development – Assistance Animals

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