Can my landlord charge me monthly pet rent in Washington?

Yes, landlords can charge monthly pet rent in Washington, as long as it is disclosed in your lease.

Is there a legal limit on how much a landlord can charge for a pet deposit?

There is no set statewide cap, but any pet deposit must be clearly described in your rental agreement.

Can my landlord charge for my service animal or emotional support animal?

No. By law, Washington landlords may not charge pet rent, fees, or deposits for service or support animals.

Are non-refundable pet fees allowed in Washington rentals?

Yes, non-refundable pet fees are allowed if they're clearly labeled as non-refundable in your lease.

Where can I file a complaint about illegal pet fees in Washington?

You can file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Section.

Washington Pet Rent Laws: What Renters Need to Know

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

Understanding the rules about pet rent is important for renters in Washington who want to bring a pet with them into a new home. Landlords in Washington have the legal right to set certain fees related to pets, but there are important regulations concerning what they can charge, how much, and when. This guide clarifies your renter rights, including law references and state resources, so you can make informed decisions about living with pets in Washington.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent in Washington?

Yes, under Washington State law, landlords can charge pet rent—an ongoing monthly fee for renters who keep household pets. There are also rules governing other pet-related costs, such as pet deposits and non-refundable pet fees.

While pet rent is not capped under state law, security deposits and non-refundable fees for pets are subject to limitations and disclosure requirements. All such terms must be outlined in your written rental agreement.

Types of Pet-Related Charges Landlords May Collect

Pet Rent: A monthly fee paid in addition to base rent. No statutory limit (cap) exists on the amount, but it must be stated in the lease.
Pet Deposit: A refundable deposit specifically for covering pet-related damage. This is part of the total security deposit cap.
Non-Refundable Pet Fee: An upfront, one-time fee for having a pet, which cannot be returned.

All fees and deposits must be itemized and stated in writing, as required by the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).^[1]

Limits and Rules for Pet Deposits and Fees

While there is no cap on monthly pet rent, there are rules for pet deposits and non-refundable fees:

Total Security Deposit Cap: Washington law does not cap the security deposit amount, but any pet deposit counts toward the total deposit required.
Written Agreement Required: All deposits and fees—including pet charges—must be in the lease or a signed addendum.
Non-Refundable Fees: Landlords can charge a non-refundable fee but it must be clearly labeled as such.
Receipt Requirement: Landlords must provide a written receipt for every deposit and non-refundable fee collected.

Be sure to review the entire rental agreement before agreeing to pay any pet-related charges.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Under state and federal law, landlords cannot charge pet rent, deposits, or pet fees for service animals or emotional support animals that are needed for a disability. Landlords may request documentation if a disability is not obvious but cannot charge extra.^[2] Learn more about Washington’s protections for tenants with service or support animals.

How These Laws Are Applied – Examples and Forms

If your landlord is collecting a pet fee or deposit, they must:

List it in your signed rental agreement (or an addendum)
Provide a written receipt for any deposit or fee
Not exceed what’s stated in the lease, or demand extra undisclosed fees later

Key Forms for Renters in Washington

Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (Required by RCW 59.18.260)
Purpose: Protects renters by documenting the apartment’s condition when you move in and out, especially if a pet is present.
When to Use: Complete at the start and end of your tenancy to avoid disputes over pet-related damages. A sample and instructions are available on the Washington Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resource Page.
Receipt for Payment of Deposits/Fees
Purpose: Proof that you have paid any pet deposit or non-refundable fee.
When to Use: Request a signed, dated receipt for every fee or deposit you pay. Templates and legal guidance are linked from the Attorney General's office.

Where to File a Complaint or Get Help

If you believe you have been charged illegal pet fees, or a landlord is not following Washington’s rental laws, you can seek assistance or file a complaint through:

For major disputes, courts in Washington handle rental claims under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. Local county courthouse clerk offices can help you begin a small claims or housing-related lawsuit.

Tip: Always get all payments, fees, and lease terms related to pets in writing, and keep copies of everything for your records.

FAQs: Washington Pet Rent and Fees

Can my landlord charge me monthly pet rent in Washington?
Yes, pet rent is allowed in Washington and the landlord sets the amount, but it should be disclosed in your lease.
Is there a legal limit on how much a landlord can charge for a pet deposit?
There is no set statewide cap, but all deposits (including those for pets) must be clearly described in your rental agreement.
Are non-refundable pet fees allowed?
Yes, but only if identified in writing as non-refundable at the start of your tenancy.
Can my landlord charge for my service animal or emotional support animal?
No. By law, no pet rent, fees, or deposits can be charged for service or support animals.
Where can I file a complaint about illegal pet fees?
You can contact the Washington Attorney General’s Office Landlord-Tenant Section for help or complaint forms.

Key Takeaways for Renters

Washington landlords can charge monthly pet rent, and there is no state limit.
All pet deposits, rent, and non-refundable fees must be disclosed in writing.
No pet-related charges are allowed for service or support animals.

Review your lease closely and ask for receipts to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Washington Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Resources
File a Complaint (WA Attorney General)
WashingtonLawHelp – Tenant Rights Information
If you need legal advice, contact your local legal aid office or visit your Washington state or county courthouse.

Washington State Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). Read full text: Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act
Washington Law Against Discrimination (RCW 49.60.222). Housing and animal accommodations: Protections for tenants with disabilities