Nebraska Pet Rent Laws: Landlord Rules, Fees & Limits

Renters with pets in Nebraska often wonder: Can landlords charge extra pet rent or pet fees? Understanding the rules around pet rent, fees, and deposits helps you budget and negotiate fairly with your landlord. This guide explains what's allowed, sets out key rules, and points you to the right official Nebraska resources.

What Is Pet Rent, and Can Landlords Charge It in Nebraska?

Pet rent is a recurring monthly charge added to your rent for having a pet in your rental unit. In Nebraska, state law does not prohibit landlords from charging pet rent, as long as the terms are clearly written in your lease agreement. Pet rent is different from a one-time pet deposit or a non-refundable pet fee.

• Pet rent: Ongoing monthly fee (e.g., $25/month per pet)
• Pet deposit: One-time refundable payment to cover pet-related damage
• Pet fee: One-time non-refundable charge, if specified in the lease

As a renter, make sure any pet-related charges are listed in your lease before you sign it. If you need help understanding what you can be charged, the official Nebraska Landlord-Tenant Dispute Program can help.

Pet Rent and Security Deposit Rules in Nebraska

Nebraska law sets limits on how much a landlord can collect as a security deposit—including any extra deposit for pets. However, pet rent and non-refundable pet fees are not capped by state law.

• Security deposit limit: Up to one month's rent, plus an extra one-quarter month's rent if you have a pet
• No specific caps on monthly pet rent or non-refundable pet fees (but amounts must be reasonable and stated in your lease)

For example, if your monthly rent is $1,000, your landlord can charge up to $1,000 as a security deposit, plus $250 if you have a pet, for a total of $1,250. All pet-related deposits must be refundable unless your lease clearly lists a non-refundable fee.

For the official rules, see the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 76-1416.¹

Allowed and Prohibited Pet Fees

Landlords may:

• Charge non-refundable pet fees, if disclosed in the lease
• Charge refundable pet deposits (within state caps)
• Set monthly pet rent amounts

Landlords may not:

• Charge more than the legal security deposit cap—including pet deposit (unless the pet is an assistance animal)
• Apply pet fees to service animals or emotional support animals that meet ADA and state criteria
• Make up new pet charges not listed in the signed lease

For more information about assistance animals, visit the HUD Guidance on Assistance Animals and Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission.

Which Tribunal Handles Pet Rent Disputes in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, residential landlord-tenant disputes—including issues over pet rent or deposits—are heard by your local county or district court. You can find details and forms for small claims on the Nebraska Judicial Branch website.²

Official Forms for Nebraska Renters

• Tenant's Notice to Landlord to Provide Security Deposit Refund (DC 6:11.8): Use this form to formally request the return of your security and pet deposits within 14 days of moving out. Example: If your landlord fails to return your refundable pet deposit after you move out, send this notice.
  Nebraska Tenant Security Deposit Refund Request Form
• Demand for Return of Property (CC 4:6): You may use this form if you file a small claim to recover your security or pet deposit.
  Nebraska Demand for Return of Property Form

Before sending a formal notice or claim, consider talking to your landlord or using Nebraska's free mediation services.

FAQ: Nebraska Pet Rent and Pet Fee Rules

1. Can a landlord charge both pet rent and a pet deposit in Nebraska?
   Yes, but the combined security deposit (including any pet portion) cannot exceed 1.25 months’ rent. Monthly pet rent does not count toward this deposit cap.
2. Are pet fees or deposits refundable in Nebraska?
   Pet deposits are refundable, but landlords can charge a non-refundable pet fee if it is stated in the lease. Read your agreement carefully.
3. Can landlords in Nebraska charge higher rent for service animals?
   No. Extra pet charges (rent, deposit, or fees) are not allowed for service animals or emotional support animals.
4. What should I do if I am charged an illegal pet fee?
   Ask your landlord to remove the charge. If they refuse, file a complaint with the Nebraska Landlord-Tenant Dispute Program or pursue small claims court.
5. Does Nebraska set a maximum for monthly pet rent?
   No. There’s no state cap, but charges must be clearly listed in the signed lease.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters with Pets

• Landlords can charge pet rent or fees, but deposits have legal limits.
• Service and support animals are protected from extra charges.
• Always review your lease and use official forms to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Landlord-Tenant Dispute Program – free mediation and guidance
• Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission – fair housing and assistance animal support
• Nebraska Judicial Branch Court Forms – official forms and small claims processes
• Nebraska Laws & Legislation Search

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1. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 76-1416 (Security Deposits)
2. Nebraska Judicial Branch – Residential Landlord-Tenant Program

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