Mississippi Pet Rent Laws: What Landlords Can Charge

Renters in Mississippi often wonder what fees, deposits, or monthly charges can be required if they want to have a pet. This guide explains the current state laws around pet rent and pet-related fees, what landlords are allowed to charge, and which protections exist for tenants.

Are Pet Rent and Pet Fees Legal in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, there is no law that specifically prevents landlords from charging extra for pets. This means landlords may legally charge "pet rent" — an additional monthly amount on top of standard rent — or collect a one-time pet fee or deposit. However, there are no state-imposed limits on how much a landlord can charge for having a pet in a rental unit.

• Pet rent is a recurring monthly fee for allowing a pet to live in the unit
• Pet deposit is usually refundable and covers potential pet-related damages
• Pet fee is a one-time, non-refundable payment for having a pet

All pet-related charges should be clearly described in your lease agreement. Make sure to review your lease and ask for clarification if needed.

How Pet Charges Work: Deposits, Fees, and Monthly Rent

Mississippi law allows landlords to set their own pet-related charges, provided they are disclosed in the lease. The law does set an overall limit for regular security deposits but does not establish any cap specifically for pet rent, deposits, or fees.

• Security deposits (which can include a pet deposit, if stated) are capped at one month's rent, unless higher amounts are "reasonable" for pets, refurnished units, or similar factors.^[1]
• Monthly pet rent and non-refundable pet fees are not capped.

For official guidance on rent and deposit regulations, visit the Mississippi Secretary of State Landlord Tenant Law page.

Assistance Animals and Pet Fees

It's important to know that federal and state law considers assistance animals (such as guide dogs or emotional support animals) not as pets, and landlords cannot charge pet rent, deposits, or fees for these animals. If you have an assistance animal, your landlord must allow it as a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act.^[2]

Key Mississippi Laws and Who Oversees Rental Issues

Mississippi’s main legislation covering rental agreements is the Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1] This law covers deposits, entry rights, and notice periods, but does not limit pet rent or pet fees directly.

There is no dedicated housing tribunal in Mississippi. Most landlord-tenant disputes are resolved in the Mississippi State Courts (such as Justice Court).

Required Forms: Security Deposit Returns

• Security Deposit Return Statement (No official form or number): When moving out, if a deposit was collected (including any for pets), the landlord must provide an itemized statement and return any remaining deposit within 45 days. Tenants should request this in writing. Use a formal demand letter if needed. See sample formats at the Mississippi Secretary of State landlord-tenant resources.

Example: If you move out and your landlord retains part of your deposit for pet damages, you may request an itemized statement and refund by sending a signed letter with your new address.

What to Do if You Disagree With Pet Fees or Charges

If you believe you are being overcharged or charged unfairly, first review your lease agreement and state law. Communicate in writing with your landlord. If a dispute is not resolved, you may:

• File a civil claim in Mississippi Justice Court
• Seek help from local renter assistance organizations or legal aid
• Contact the Mississippi Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division

FAQ: Pet Rent, Fees, and Renter Rights in Mississippi

1. Can my landlord charge a monthly pet rent on top of the security deposit?
   Yes, landlords in Mississippi can charge both a monthly pet rent and a security deposit, as long as these are included in your signed lease agreement.
2. Is there a legal limit to how much pet rent or pet fees can be in Mississippi?
   No, Mississippi law does not cap pet rent or pet fees. However, the total security deposit (including any amount for a pet deposit) is generally limited to one month's rent unless otherwise justified.
3. Are pet deposits refundable?
   Usually yes, if they are described as a "deposit" and not a "fee." Deposits should be returned minus any pet-related or other damages, with an itemized statement within 45 days of moving out.
4. Can landlords charge pet fees for service or emotional support animals?
   No, under the Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot charge deposits or fees for verified assistance animals, even if they charge other tenants with pets.
5. Where can I go if I have a dispute about pet fees?
   Most rental disputes in Mississippi go through Justice Court, or you can seek advice from legal aid agencies or the Mississippi Attorney General’s office.

Key Takeaways for Mississippi Renters

• Landlords can charge pet rent, deposits, or fees if clearly stated in the lease
• There is no state limit on most pet-related charges or monthly pet rent
• Assistance animals are protected from pet fees and deposits under federal law

Knowing your rights and reading your lease carefully can help you avoid surprises or disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Mississippi Secretary of State – Landlord Tenant Law
• Mississippi State Courts (Justice Court)
• Mississippi Center for Legal Services
• U.S. Department of Justice – Americans with Disabilities Act
• Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form

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1. Mississippi Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 89-8)
2. Fair Housing Act and Reasonable Accommodations (HUD)

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