Connecticut Pet Rent Laws in 2025: A Guide for Landlords

In Connecticut, the relationship between landlords and tenants regarding pet ownership is governed by a combination of state and federal laws designed to balance property rights with fair housing practices. As pet ownership continues to rise, it's essential for both landlords and tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities concerning pets, service animals, and emotional support animals (ESAs) within rental properties.​

Landlords in Connecticut have the discretion to establish pet policies, including restrictions or prohibitions, to protect their property from potential damage. However, exceptions are made for service animals and ESAs, which are not considered pets under the law. These animals provide essential assistance to individuals with disabilities, and landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for them, even if a no-pet policy is in place.​

Understanding the legal distinctions between pets, service animals, and ESAs is crucial. While landlords can impose pet deposits and fees for traditional pets, they cannot charge additional fees for service animals or ESAs. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Connecticut's regulations, offering clarity on the rights and obligations of both landlords and tenants in the context of pet ownership and assistance animals.

Legal Framework Governing Pets in Connecticut Rentals

Landlord Discretion and Pet Policies

In Connecticut, landlords have the authority to determine whether pets are allowed in their rental properties. They can set specific policies that may include restrictions on the type, size, or number of pets, or they may choose to prohibit pets altogether. These policies should be clearly outlined in the lease agreement to ensure transparency and avoid potential disputes.​

However, it's important to note that service animals and ESAs are not classified as pets under federal and state laws. Therefore, even if a landlord has a no-pet policy, they are obligated to accommodate tenants who require service animals or ESAs due to a disability. Refusing to allow these assistance animals can be considered discriminatory and may lead to legal consequences.​

Security Deposit Regulations

Connecticut law regulates the amount a landlord can charge for security deposits. For most tenants, the maximum security deposit is limited to two months' rent. For tenants aged 62 or older, the limit is one month's rent. These deposits must be held in an escrow account and returned within 21 days after the lease ends, minus any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.​

Regarding pet deposits, landlords are permitted to charge an additional amount to cover potential damages caused by pets. This pet deposit is separate from the standard security deposit and should be reasonable, reflecting potential risks associated with allowing pets on the property. It's essential for landlords to specify any pet-related deposits or fees in the lease agreement to ensure all parties are aware of their financial obligations.​

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Service animals and ESAs play distinct roles in assisting individuals with disabilities, and they are afforded specific protections under the law. Understanding these distinctions is vital for both landlords and tenants to ensure compliance and foster a supportive living environment.​

Legal Definitions and Protections

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is defined as a dog (or, in some cases, a miniature horse) that is individually trained to perform tasks directly related to an individual's disability. These tasks can include guiding individuals with visual impairments, alerting those with hearing impairments, pulling a wheelchair, or providing assistance during seizures. Connecticut law aligns with the ADA but specifically covers dogs assisting individuals who are blind, deaf, or have mobility impairments.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide comfort and support to individuals with emotional or psychological conditions. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specific training to perform tasks related to a disability. While ESAs are not granted public access rights under the ADA, they are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations in housing.

Prohibited Charges

Landlords cannot charge additional pet deposits, fees, or rent for service animals or ESAs. These assistance animals are not considered pets under the law, and imposing extra charges constitutes discrimination. However, tenants are responsible for any damages caused by their assistance animals beyond normal wear and tear. It's essential for landlords to adjust their pet policies to comply with these regulations, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are provided equal housing opportunities without undue financial burdens.

Best Practices for Landlords

Establishing clear and fair pet policies is essential for landlords to protect their property while accommodating tenants with pets or assistance animals. By implementing comprehensive guidelines and ensuring compliance with anti-discrimination laws, landlords can foster positive tenant relationships and minimize potential disputes.​

Crafting Clear Pet Policies

A well-defined pet policy should be included in the lease agreement and address the following elements:

• Allowed Pets: Specify which types of pets are permitted, including any restrictions on species, breeds, sizes, or the number of pets allowed.​
• Pet Deposits and Fees: Clearly outline any additional deposits or monthly fees associated with pet ownership, ensuring they comply with Connecticut's security deposit limits.​
• Tenant Responsibilities: Detail expectations for pet care, such as maintaining cleanliness, preventing noise disturbances, and ensuring the pet does not cause damage to the property.​
• Vaccinations and Licensing: Require proof of up-to-date vaccinations and any necessary licenses as mandated by local ordinances.​
• Consequences of Policy Violations: Explain the actions that will be taken if the pet policy is violated, which may include fines, removal of the pet, or eviction in severe cases.​

It's important to note that while landlords can set policies regarding pets, they must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with service animals or ESAs, as these are not considered pets under the law.​

Ensuring Compliance with Anti-Discrimination Laws

Landlords must apply pet policies uniformly to all tenants to avoid potential discrimination claims. This includes consistent enforcement of pet-related fees, deposits, and restrictions. Policies should not disproportionately affect tenants based on protected characteristics such as race, religion, disability, or familial status.​

For assistance animals, landlords are required to provide reasonable accommodations and cannot impose pet fees or deposits. However, tenants can be held responsible for any damages caused by their assistance animals. It's advisable for landlords to familiarize themselves with both federal and state fair housing laws to ensure full compliance.​

Conclusion

Navigating pet policies in Connecticut rental properties requires a balanced approach that respects the rights and needs of both landlords and tenants. By understanding and adhering to state and federal laws regarding pets, service animals, and emotional support animals, landlords can create inclusive and compliant housing environments.​

Clear communication and well-defined lease agreements are key to preventing misunderstandings and fostering positive landlord-tenant relationships. By implementing fair pet policies and making necessary accommodations for assistance animals, landlords can protect their property interests while supporting tenants who rely on the companionship and assistance of their animals.​

Staying informed about current and evolving legislation is essential for landlords to maintain compliance and adapt to changes that may impact their rental practices. Proactive education and policy development will contribute to harmonious living arrangements and the well-being of all parties involved.​

Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut Pet Rent Laws

Can a landlord charge a pet fee in Connecticut?

Yes, landlords in Connecticut can charge a pet fee or additional rent for tenants with pets. However, for service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs), landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations and cannot impose extra fees or deposits for these assistance animals. ​

What is the new renters law in Connecticut?

As of January 2025, there have been discussions and proposals to strengthen tenant protections and housing regulations in Connecticut. For instance, East Hartford officials are working to enhance anti-blight ordinances to improve living conditions for renters. However, specific statewide legislative changes affecting renters may vary, and it's advisable to consult the latest state resources or legal counsel for the most current information.

How strict are landlords about pets in Connecticut?

Landlords in Connecticut have the discretion to set their own pet policies, which can range from allowing all pets to imposing specific restrictions or prohibiting them entirely. These policies should be clearly outlined in the lease agreement. While landlords can enforce their pet policies strictly, they must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with service animals or ESAs, as these are not considered pets under the law. ​

Can a landlord charge a pet deposit in Connecticut?

Yes, landlords in Connecticut can charge a pet deposit to cover potential damages caused by pets. However, the total security deposit, including any pet deposit, cannot exceed two months' rent for tenants under 62 years old and one month's rent for tenants 62 or older. It's important to note that pet deposits are separate from pet fees or pet rent, and landlords cannot charge additional deposits or fees for service animals or ESAs. ​

How do I get around my apartment pet fees in Connecticut?

To avoid pet fees legally, consider discussing the possibility of waiving or reducing pet fees with your landlord, perhaps by providing references or demonstrating your pet's good behavior.​

It's essential to approach this matter transparently and within legal boundaries to maintain a positive tenant-landlord relationship.​

If your pet qualifies as a service animal or emotional support animal, landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations without charging additional fees. Proper documentation from a licensed healthcare professional is necessary.

What is considered normal wear and tear in Connecticut?

Normal wear and tear in Connecticut refers to the natural and gradual deterioration of a rental property resulting from ordinary use over time. This can include minor carpet wear, small nail holes, or faded paint. Landlords cannot deduct from a tenant's security deposit for damages deemed as normal wear and tear. However, significant damages beyond this scope, such as large holes in walls or broken fixtures, may warrant deductions.