Can a landlord in Utah charge both a pet deposit and monthly pet rent?

Yes, landlords in Utah may charge both, with no set legal limits, if outlined in the lease.

Are service animals or emotional support animals subject to pet rent in Utah?

No, landlords cannot charge pet rent or fees for service or support animals by law.

What can I do if my landlord withholds my pet deposit?

Send a written demand for the deposit's return and consider filing in small claims court if unresolved.

How long does a landlord have to return my pet deposit in Utah?

Landlords have 30 days after the end of the lease to return refundable deposits and provide itemized deductions.

Are there official forms to help recover a wrongfully withheld pet deposit in Utah?

No statewide form exists, but you can use sample demand letters from official state resources.

Utah Pet Rent Laws: What Renters Should Know

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Utah published: June 21, 2025

Many renters in Utah have pets and want to understand whether their landlord can charge monthly pet rent, require pet deposits, or set extra pet-related fees. Navigating these costs can feel confusing, but knowing your rights and the state laws can help you make informed decisions and protect your budget.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent in Utah?

Yes, under Utah law, landlords are allowed to charge pet rent, additional pet fees, or request a separate pet deposit. There is no specific state law that limits or prohibits these charges. Pet rent is a recurring monthly payment for having a pet in the unit, separate from general rent. Landlords may use different fee structures, including:

Pet Rent: A set monthly fee, usually added to your regular rent.
Pet Deposit: A refundable deposit to cover possible pet damages.
Pet Fee: A one-time, non-refundable charge for having a pet.

It's important to note that Utah does not set a maximum limit ("cap") on pet rent or deposits statewide. Property owners should disclose all fees in your written lease agreement. If you pay any deposits, the landlord must comply with state deposit rules explained below.

How Pet Rent and Deposits Work

In Utah, all terms about pets—including whether they're allowed, any deposits, and recurring charges—should be spelled out in your lease. If you don't see these terms or the policy is unclear, ask the landlord for clarification before signing. Service animals are not considered pets under fair housing laws and cannot be subject to pet rent or related fees.

Security Deposits & Pet Deposits: Utah State Rules

While Utah law doesn’t set a maximum on security or pet deposits, there are legal requirements about how deposits are handled:

Written Notice: Your lease must specify all required deposits and which amounts are non-refundable.
Return Timeline: Landlords must return refundable deposits (including pet deposit portions) within 30 days after the lease ends or provide an itemized statement showing deductions.
Receipts: You are entitled to a written, itemized statement if any part of your deposit is withheld.

For more information, review the official Utah renter information on the Utah Renter’s Handbook and consult the Utah Fit Premises Act for the full legislation.¹

Are There Any Caps on Pet Rent or Fees?

Some states limit the amount landlords can charge for pet deposits or monthly pet rent, but Utah does not impose any such caps. This means that, unless your city or county has additional rules (most do not), landlords may set pet rents and deposits at their discretion, provided those terms are clearly described in the lease agreement.

What About Emotional Support and Service Animals?

Under the federal Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot charge pet rent, deposits, or fees for service animals or emotional support animals (ESA). If you have a disability and need a service animal or ESA, you may request a "reasonable accommodation." You may need to provide documentation.

Tip: If you believe you’ve been charged unlawful pet fees for a service or emotional support animal, you can file a housing discrimination complaint with the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division.

Official Forms and Tribunals for Utah Renters

Security Deposit Dispute Notice (no official form number):
When and how to use: If your landlord fails to return your deposit within 30 days, send a written demand for payment. Sample letters and landlord-tenant complaint forms can be found in the Utah Attorney General’s landlord-tenant resources. Attach receipts, move-in/out forms, and correspondence if possible. This formal notice is your first step before considering legal action.

The Utah Courts (Landlord-Tenant Section) handle disputes regarding security deposits and pet charges. Visit the Utah State Courts – Landlord & Tenant page for information on complaints, small claims, and eviction processes.²

How to File a Complaint If Pet Fees Are Disputed

Document lease terms, fees, and communications with your landlord.
If you believe your landlord has overcharged or withheld a pet deposit unfairly, start by sending a written demand for return.
If still unresolved, you can contact the Utah Renter’s Handbook resources for mediation, or file a complaint in Utah Small Claims Court.

Take these steps quickly—if you wait too long, your ability to recover fees or deposits may be affected.

Frequently Asked Questions: Utah Pet Rent Rules

Can a landlord in Utah charge both a pet deposit and monthly pet rent?
Yes, both can be charged if clearly outlined in the lease. There is no legal cap or limit.
Are service animals or emotional support animals subject to pet rent in Utah?
No. Under federal and state fair housing laws, you cannot be charged extra for service or support animals.
What should I do if my landlord withholds my pet deposit?
Send a written demand for return, then use small claims court if unresolved. See the Utah State Courts landlord resources for steps.
How soon must a Utah landlord return my pet deposit?
Within 30 days after the lease ends, along with an itemized list of deductions if any applies.
Are there official forms to recover a wrongfully withheld pet deposit?
There is no statewide form; write a formal demand using templates in the Utah Attorney General’s landlord-tenant guide.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Utah Renters with Pets

Landlords in Utah may charge pet rent and deposits—there are no statewide limits on these amounts.
All pet-related fees and policies must be clearly written in your lease. Ask before signing if anything is unclear.
Deposits must be refunded or itemized within 30 days after lease end.
Service animals and emotional support animals are protected; you cannot be charged pet fees for them.

If you have questions or concerns, use Utah’s official landlord-tenant support resources for guidance and dispute resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Utah Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Guidance
Utah State Courts – Landlord & Tenant Self-Help
Utah Antidiscrimination & Labor Division – Fair Housing (complaints, disability accommodations)
Utah Renter’s Handbook (PDF)

See Utah Fit Premises Act for deposit and rental rules.
Dispute information: Utah State Courts – Landlord & Tenant Section.