Ohio Rules on Pet Rent, Fees, and Security Deposits Explained

If you're renting in Ohio and considering bringing a pet into your home, it's important to understand what landlords can legally charge for pets. This guide explains Ohio’s rules on pet rent, pet fees, and security deposit caps under state law. We'll help you understand your rights, what costs are reasonable, and what to do if you suspect unlawful charges.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent or Fees in Ohio?

Yes, under Ohio law, landlords can charge pet rent, non-refundable pet fees, or add to the security deposit for tenants with pets. However, these charges must be clearly stated in your rental agreement. Ohio does not have state-wide rent control or specific caps on pet-related charges, so fees vary by landlord.^[1]

• Pet Rent: An ongoing monthly fee for housing a pet.
• Pet Fee: A one-time, usually non-refundable charge for having a pet.
• Pet Deposit: A refundable dollar amount added to your security deposit.

Landlords must disclose all pet-related fees and requirements in the written lease. Renters should always ask about pet policies before signing or bringing a pet home.

Key Rules and Limits

• There is no legal cap on the amount of pet rent or fees, but overall security deposits must follow Ohio landlord-tenant law.
• Landlords cannot charge pet deposits, fees, or rent for service or emotional support animals required due to a disability.^[2]
• If the landlord collects a security deposit over $50 or one month's rent, they must pay yearly interest on the surplus.^[3]

Check your lease for exact pet fee details. If the amount wasn’t disclosed, or seems excessive, you may have options to negotiate or challenge it.

How Security Deposits and Pet Fees Work Together

In Ohio, the Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.16 governs security deposits. There is no absolute dollar cap, but landlords must follow return procedures and handle interest requirements on large deposits.^[3]

• Any pet deposit is usually treated as part of the main security deposit.
• If your combined deposit (including pet deposit) is higher than $50 or one month’s rent, the landlord owes you annual interest at five percent (after six months of your tenancy).
• Non-refundable pet fees are not governed by deposit rules and don’t have to be returned when you move out.

Keep copies of all receipts and lease terms related to pet charges for your records.

Special Rule: Service and Emotional Support Animals

Landlords cannot charge pet rent, a pet deposit, or fees for service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs) that meet state and federal disability accommodation laws. This protection is covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and federal Fair Housing Act. However, you may need to provide documentation supporting the animal’s status if asked by your landlord.

Tip: If your landlord tries to charge extra for a service or assistance animal, you may file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

What To Do If You Dispute a Pet Fee or Charge

If you believe your landlord is charging improper or excessive pet-related fees, here are practical steps you can take:

• Review your lease for all pet clauses and charges.
• Ask your landlord in writing to explain any disputed fees.
• If not resolved, you can contact the Ohio Civil Rights Commission for discrimination issues, or seek assistance from local legal aid services.
• Pet fee disputes about deposit returns may end up in the Ohio Municipal or County Court (small claims). Bring your lease, receipts, and any communication as evidence.

Important Ohio Landlord-Tenant Forms

• Notice to Vacate (Ohio): Used to end your lease properly. For example, if you cannot accept new pet rent terms, you must give your landlord written notice to move out. See requirements here (no official template).
• Complaint Form - Ohio Civil Rights Commission: Use this if you believe you have been discriminated against for having a service animal. File online here.

Always keep copies of any form or complaint you submit for your records. Notifying your landlord in writing is a best practice when there’s a dispute or question over fees.

FAQ: Pet Rent and Fees in Ohio Rentals

1. Can my landlord charge any amount for pet rent?
   Yes. In Ohio, there are no state limits on pet rent amounts. Charges are negotiable and must be stated in the lease.
2. Are pet fees or deposits refundable?
   Non-refundable pet fees don’t have to be returned. Pet deposits, if part of your security deposit, must be refunded unless there is damage.
3. Can I be charged for a service or support animal?
   No. Landlords cannot charge pet rent, fees, or deposits for service animals or emotional support animals due to disability needs.
4. What if I think a fee is unfair?
   Try to resolve it directly with your landlord first. If not resolved, seek help from the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or your local legal aid office.
5. Where do I file a complaint about unlawful pet charges?
   Discrimination complaints go to the Ohio Civil Rights Commission. For deposit disputes, you may file a claim in your local Small Claims Court.

Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• Ohio law allows landlords to charge pet rent, fees, or deposits, but they must be clear in your lease.
• There are no statewide caps, but service and support animals are legally exempt.
• If you face unfair pet charges, review your lease, communicate in writing, and reach out to official help resources if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 (Landlord-Tenant Act)
• Ohio Civil Rights Commission (housing discrimination, service animal complaints)
• Ohio Municipal and County Courts (for landlord-tenant legal cases, including small claims)
• Ohio Legal Help—Housing Resources

---

1. The key tribunal for housing/tenancy disputes in Ohio is your local county or municipal court. Tenancy law is set by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321.
2. Support animal protections are outlined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
3. Security deposit interest rules: see Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.16.

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