North Dakota Pet Rent Rules: What Renters Need to Know

Many renters in North Dakota are curious about whether landlords can charge pet rent, deposits, or fees—and if so, what legal limits exist. Understanding your rights is important if you have or plan to get a pet in your rental home. This guide breaks down North Dakota's rules around pet rent and deposits, with clear explanations and links to official resources.

Pet Rent, Fees, and Deposits: Definitions and Basics

In North Dakota, landlords may charge additional money if a renter has a pet, but there are specific definitions for each type of charge:

• Pet Rent: An extra monthly amount added to your regular rent for having a pet.
• Pet Deposit: A refundable sum collected to cover potential damage caused by the pet.
• Pet Fee: A nonrefundable one-time charge for having a pet, depending on your lease agreement.

It's up to the landlord whether to allow pets and what pet-related payments to require. All rules must be clearly stated in your written lease.

Legal Rules for Pet Rent and Deposits in North Dakota

According to the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant, there is no statewide law that caps the amount landlords can charge for pet rent or fees. However, there are protections in place for renters:

• Security Deposit Limits: For most renters, the total security deposit—including any pet deposit—may not exceed the equivalent of one month's rent. If you have a pet, landlords may require up to an additional $2,500 or two months’ rent (whichever is greater), for pet-related damages.^[1]
• Service Animals: Fees, deposits, or pet rent cannot be charged for trained service animals. Emotional support animals may have specific protections as well. For more on this, see the HUD's guidance on Reasonable Accommodations.
• Written Disclosures: Any pet payments must be outlined in your signed lease agreement to be enforceable.

There is no official "pet rent" cap, so amounts can vary depending on your landlord and market conditions. Always negotiate and confirm any charges in writing before signing a lease.

Official Forms for Pet Rent and Deposits

North Dakota does not require a specific statewide form for pet rent or pet deposits. However, leases must document any such charges. The most relevant official form is the Rental Lease Agreement (no official number), used to document agreed monthly rent, security and pet deposits, and all other terms.

• When to use: Before move-in, when you and your landlord agree to the rent, pet fees, and all other rules.
• How to use: Review the lease for clear mention of pet rent, and have both parties sign before you get the keys. Save a copy for your records.

Getting Your Pet Deposit Back

To recover your pet deposit after moving out, you can use the standard process for rental security deposit returns. North Dakota law requires that your landlord return your security (and pet) deposit within 30 days after you move out, minus deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

What Agency Handles Rental Disputes?

North Dakota does not have a dedicated landlord-tenant board. Rental disputes involving pet rent and deposits are usually handled in North Dakota District Courts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord charge me pet rent and a pet deposit in North Dakota?
   Yes, landlords can charge both, as long as the charges are clearly stated in your lease agreement and follow legal deposit limits.
2. Are there any statewide caps on pet rent in North Dakota?
   No, there is no legal maximum on monthly pet rent. However, there are limits on pet-related deposits.
3. What if I have a service or support animal?
   Landlords cannot charge pet rent, fees, or deposits for trained service animals. Emotional support animals may also be exempt if supported with proper documentation.
4. How do I reclaim my pet deposit after moving out?
   Your landlord must return your pet deposit within 30 days unless there is damage beyond normal wear and tear. If not, you may file a claim in district court.
5. Where can I get help with a pet rent dispute?
   You can contact the North Dakota Courts Legal Self Help or seek help from state legal aid resources.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters with Pets

• No state law caps monthly pet rent, but deposit limits apply
• All pet fees and deposits must be in your written lease
• Service animals are protected—no fees or rent can be charged for them

Keep all agreements in writing, ask questions if fees seem high, and seek local legal help if you believe your rights are being violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Legal Self Help - Landlord & Tenant
• North Dakota District Courts
• North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant Law)
• Legal Services of North Dakota
• HUD Guide to Reasonable Accommodation for Service Animals

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1. North Dakota Century Code: Landlord and Tenant Law – Chapter 47-16
2. North Dakota Courts: Landlord-Tenant Self-Help

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