Oregon Rules on Pet Rent: What Landlords Can Charge

Renting with a pet in Oregon comes with important financial considerations. Many renters wonder if landlords can charge pet rent, pet deposits, or other pet-related fees. Understanding your rights under Oregon law can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs.

Can Oregon Landlords Charge Pet Rent?

Yes, Oregon landlords are allowed to charge pet rent in most cases. "Pet rent" is a monthly charge landlords add to your rent for allowing a pet in the rental unit. There is currently no legal cap on the amount a landlord can charge for pet rent in Oregon. This means landlords may set any reasonable monthly pet rent, as long as it’s disclosed up front and included in your rental agreement.^[1]

What About Pet Deposits and Pet Fees?

In Oregon, landlords can also charge a separate refundable "pet deposit" or a one-time non-refundable "pet fee." It’s important to know:

• Pet deposit: Must be refundable and used for pet-related damages only.
• Pet fee: May be non-refundable, but this must be stated clearly in the rental agreement.

Certain rules apply to these charges, including how security deposits are handled and how they must be returned or withheld at the end of a tenancy. See Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) § 90.300 - Security deposits and prepaid rent for details.^[2]

Are There Caps on Pet Deposits?

While Oregon does not specifically cap pet rent or pet fees, the law does regulate total security deposits. A pet deposit is generally considered part of your overall security deposit. For new tenancies, Oregon law does not set a maximum security deposit amount, but any increases must be provided in writing and given at least three months’ notice, unless the tenant has agreed otherwise.^[2]

Service Animals Are Exempt

Landlords cannot charge pet rent, pet deposits, or pet fees for service or assistance animals, as these are not considered pets under state or federal law. Tenants who require a service or support animal are protected under the Fair Housing Act and ORS 659A.143.

What Must Be Included in the Lease?

If your landlord plans to charge pet rent, a pet deposit, or a pet fee, these charges must be

• Stated in your rental agreement or addendum
• Itemized separately from standard rent or security deposit

Be sure to read your lease carefully, and request clarification if pet charges are not clearly explained.

Pet Charges and Security Deposit Return

At the end of your tenancy, your landlord must provide an itemized, written account if any portion of your security deposit (or pet deposit) is withheld for damages. The remainder must be refunded within 31 days. For more on this process, visit the Oregon Renters’ Rights Guide from Oregon Housing and Community Services.

Key Forms for Oregon Renters Dealing With Pet Fees

• Notice of Deposit Withholding (no official number): If your landlord keeps any part of your security (or pet) deposit, they must send a written notice. As a renter, if you disagree with the deductions, you can respond in writing or use the Small Claims Complaint Form to recover your deposit.
  For example: You moved out, your landlord withheld money for alleged pet damage, but you disagree. File this form with your county circuit court.

The Main Tribunal for Disputes

If you have a dispute with your landlord about pet rent, deposits, or move-out charges, your case would go to the Oregon Circuit Court (Small Claims or Landlord-Tenant Court, depending on the situation).

Relevant Oregon Legislation on Pet Rent and Deposits

• ORS § 90.300 – Security deposits and prepaid rent
• ORS § 90.100 – Definitions
• ORS § 659A.143 – Discrimination for use of assistance animal

If you’re unsure about a pet charge, ask your landlord for written documentation. Keep all receipts and communication for your records.

Common Questions About Oregon Pet Rent

1. Can my landlord charge me pet rent and a pet deposit?
   Yes, Oregon landlords may charge both, as long as they’re clearly explained in your lease and not applied to service or assistance animals.
2. What if my rental agreement doesn’t mention pets?
   You should not have a pet unless your landlord gives written approval. If pets become allowed later, get all fees and rent terms in writing.
3. How much can a landlord charge for pet rent?
   There is currently no legal cap on monthly pet rent in Oregon. Charges must be reasonable and disclosed up front.
4. What should I do if my landlord keeps my pet deposit unfairly?
   Request an itemized statement and, if needed, use Oregon’s Small Claims Complaint Form to try to recover your money.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters with Pets

• Oregon landlords may charge monthly pet rent and pet deposits, but must disclose all charges in writing.
• There are no state limits on how much pet rent or pet deposits can be, except service and assistance animals are always exempt.
• If you believe a pet deposit was withheld unfairly, you can dispute it in small claims court.

In summary, being informed of your rights and always reviewing your rental agreement can help prevent struggles over pet-related charges. If you need more help, reach out to Oregon’s official tenant support resources below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Renters Rights Guide (Official Resource)
• Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord-Tenant Disputes
• Oregon Housing and Community Services Contact
• OregonLawHelp.org – Tenants’ Rights

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, ORS Chapter 90: Read ORS Chapter 90
2. ORS § 90.300 – Security deposits and prepaid rent: Details on security deposits
3. ORS § 659A.143 – Discrimination for use of assistance animal: Restrictions on pet fees for service animals
4. Oregon Circuit Courts: Dispute Resolution and Small Claims Information

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