Nevada Pet Rent Laws: Rules and Caps for Landers & Renters

Many renters in Nevada wonder if their landlord can charge extra rent or fees for having a pet. With increasing numbers of pet-friendly rentals, understanding state law is essential to avoid surprises and protect your tenancy. This article explains what is allowed in Nevada, how pet rent and deposits differ, and what rights you have as a renter under current laws.

Pet Rent and Fees in Nevada: What the Law Says

Nevada law allows landlords to charge extra amounts for pets, but there are important rules and distinctions to be aware of:

• Pet Rent: A monthly fee added to your regular rent for having a pet.
• Pet Deposit: An upfront refundable security deposit to cover potential pet damage.
• Pet Fee: A one-time, non-refundable payment for allowing a pet—less common but sometimes used.

Unlike some states, Nevada does not set a statutory cap on the amount a landlord can charge as pet rent or pet fee. However, there are caps on total security deposits (see below). Landlords and tenants must also follow fair housing laws and cannot charge pet-related fees for service or assistance animals.

Security Deposit Laws Affecting Pet Deposits

While pet rent is typically separate, total security deposits—including any pet deposit portion—are limited. Under the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A, the maximum security deposit a landlord can require is three months’ rent.^[1]

• Your total deposits (regular plus any pet deposit) cannot exceed this cap.
• Pet deposits must be refundable unless clearly labeled as non-refundable in your lease.

If you notice your total deposit exceeds the three-month cap due to pet requirements, you can request an adjustment in writing.

Are There Limits on Pet Rent in Nevada?

Currently, Nevada law does not place a dollar limit or cap on pet rent. Landlords are free to set this amount in your rental agreement. However, it must be:

• Stated clearly in the lease
• Applied consistently (no discrimination between tenants with similar pets)
• Not used for service or emotional support animals

Pet rent should never be charged for service animals or emotional support animals—a violation of the Fair Housing Act and Nevada law.

What to Watch for in Your Lease

Always review your lease or rental agreement carefully. Nevada law requires all extra charges, including pet rent, pet deposits, or fees, to be disclosed in the lease. Make sure you:

• Read the pet clause thoroughly
• Confirm whether the pet deposit is refundable or not
• Keep documentation of all payments made (for disputes or move-out)

Key Agencies and Legislation

Nevada’s main residential tenancy law is the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A (Residential Landlord and Tenant Act). Disputes between landlords and tenants, including over pet fees, are handled by the Nevada Justice Court's Landlord-Tenant Division in your local jurisdiction.^[2]

Relevant Forms for Nevada Renters

• Five-Day Notice to Perform Lease Condition or Quit – Used by landlords if they believe a tenant has violated the lease (e.g., having unauthorized pets). Learn more and download from the Clark County Landlord-Tenant Forms page.
  • When used: If you receive this, you have five business days to correct the violation (e.g., remove an unauthorized pet or pay overdue pet rent).
• Answer to Complaint for Summary Eviction (LVJC Form 18) – If you are served with an eviction due to unpaid pet rent or related pet issues, this is the official form to respond. Download from the Las Vegas Justice Court Landlord-Tenant Forms.
  • How to use: File the form with the court, explaining your circumstances and including any receipts or evidence.

What Should Renters Do if They Dispute a Pet Charge?

If you disagree with pet-related charges:

• Raise the issue with your landlord in writing (email or certified mail).
• Document all payments, communication, and your lease terms.
• If not resolved, file a complaint with the appropriate justice court or seek help from Nevada Housing Division.

This helps protect your tenancy rights under Nevada law.

FAQ: Nevada Pet Rent Laws

1. Can my landlord charge both a pet rent and a pet deposit in Nevada?
   Yes, Nevada landlords may charge both. Pet rent (monthly) and pet deposits (upfront, refundable) must not push the total deposit above the three months' rent cap.
2. Are there limits on how much pet rent my landlord can charge in Nevada?
   No specific amount is capped. However, the amount must be outlined in your lease and applied fairly.
3. Do service animals count as pets for pet rent purposes?
   No. Service and assistance animals are not considered pets; landlords may not charge pet-related fees for these animals.
4. What happens if my landlord keeps my pet deposit unfairly?
   If you believe your pet deposit was unfairly withheld, you can file a dispute in local Justice Court and must be provided an itemized list of deductions.
5. Who handles tenant-landlord disputes about pet rent or deposits?
   Nevada Justice Courts' Landlord-Tenant Division handles these disputes. Find your local office on the official website.

Conclusion: Know Your Nevada Renter Rights on Pet Charges

• Nevada allows pet rent, fees, and deposits—but total deposits, including pet deposit, can’t exceed three months’ rent.
• All pet charges must be disclosed clearly in your lease.
• No pet rent or fee can be applied for service or assistance animals.

For peace of mind, always keep copies of your lease, receipts, and communication with your landlord. Seek free resources if you’re facing unfair charges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Information and FAQs for renters and landlords
• Justice Court Landlord-Tenant Division – File disputes or learn about your legal rights
• Nevada Legal Services – Free and low-cost legal aid for tenants
• HUD Nevada Fair Housing Resources – For discrimination or disability accommodation issues

---

1. Nevada Revised Statutes NRS 118A.242: Limitations on Security Deposits
2. Nevada Justice Court Landlord-Tenant Division

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations