Georgia Pet Rent Laws in 2025: A Guide for Landlords

In Georgia, the dynamics between landlords and tenants regarding pet ownership are governed by a combination of state statutes and federal regulations. As pet ownership becomes increasingly prevalent, with many households considering pets as integral family members, the demand for pet-friendly rental accommodations has risen significantly. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges for landlords.​

The Georgia Landlord and Tenant Handbook provides a framework that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants concerning pet policies. While landlords have the discretion to permit or restrict pets within their properties, they must navigate specific legal requirements, especially when it comes to service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs). Understanding these distinctions is crucial to ensure compliance with the law and to foster positive landlord-tenant relationships.​

This comprehensive guide delves into the legal landscape of pet policies in Georgia rental properties, offering insights into security deposit regulations, the differentiation between pets and assistance animals, and best practices for landlords aiming to create clear and enforceable pet policies.​

Legal Framework Governing Pets in Georgia Rentals

Georgia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act Overview

The Georgia Landlord and Tenant Handbook serves as the primary legal document governing rental agreements within the state. It delineates the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants, providing a structured approach to various rental aspects, including pet policies. While the act does not explicitly mandate provisions regarding pet ownership, it grants landlords the authority to establish their own pet policies, which should be clearly articulated within the lease agreement. This includes specifying any restrictions, such as breed or size limitations, and outlining any associated fees or deposits.​

Pet Policies in Lease Agreements

In Georgia, landlords possess the discretion to determine whether pets are permitted on their properties. If a landlord chooses to allow pets, it's imperative that the lease agreement encompasses a detailed pet policy. Key elements to include are:​

• Types of Pets Allowed: Clearly specify which animals are permissible, including any restrictions on species, breeds, sizes, or the number of pets allowed.​
• Pet Deposits and Fees: Outline any additional financial requirements, such as pet deposits (which are separate from standard security deposits) or monthly pet fees.​
• Tenant Responsibilities: Define expectations regarding pet care, maintenance, and adherence to local ordinances, ensuring pets do not become a nuisance to neighbors.​
• Consequences of Policy Violations: Detail the repercussions for breaching the pet policy, which may range from fines to potential eviction.​

By incorporating these elements, landlords can safeguard their property while providing clarity to tenants. It's essential that all pet-related terms are documented in writing within the lease to prevent future disputes.​

Evictions Related to Pets

Landlords retain the right to enforce the terms of the lease agreement, including those pertaining to pets. Grounds for pet-related evictions may encompass:​

• Unauthorized Pets: Introduction of a pet into the rental unit without obtaining prior consent from the landlord.​
• Property Damage: Significant harm caused to the property by the tenant's pet, exceeding normal wear and tear.​
• Disturbances: Pets that create continuous noise or pose a threat to other tenants, thereby disrupting the peaceful enjoyment of the premises.​

In instances where a tenant violates the pet policy, landlords must adhere to the procedures outlined in the Georgia Landlord and Tenant Handbook. This typically involves providing the tenant with written notice specifying the violation and granting a designated period to rectify the issue. Should the tenant fail to comply, the landlord may proceed with eviction proceedings in accordance with state law.​

Security Deposits, Pet Fees, and Pet Rent

State Regulations on Security Deposits

Georgia law regulates the collection and management of security deposits to protect the interests of both landlords and tenants. Key provisions include:​

• Maximum Security Deposit Limit: As of July 1, 2024, under the Safe At Home Act, Georgia has set a cap on security deposits, including pet deposits, at two times the monthly rent. This means that the combined total of all deposits cannot exceed this limit. 
• Separate Pet Deposits: Landlords are permitted to request a separate pet deposit to cover potential damages caused by the pet. This deposit is distinct from the general security deposit and is intended specifically for pet-related damages.​
• Handling and Return of Deposits: Upon termination of the lease, landlords are obligated to return the security and pet deposits, minus any deductions for damages, within 30 days. If deductions are made, an itemized statement must be provided to the tenant, detailing the reasons for the deductions.

Pet Rent and Non-Refundable Pet Fees

Beyond deposits, landlords may opt to charge additional fees to offset potential risks associated with pet occupancy.

Pet rent entails a recurring monthly fee added to the tenant's rent for housing a pet. Georgia law permits landlords to impose pet rent, with the amount typically reflecting factors such as the type, size, and number of pets. It's crucial that this charge is explicitly stated in the lease agreement.​

Some landlords may require a one-time, non-refundable fee to cover potential wear and tear or additional cleaning necessitated by pet occupancy. While Georgia law does not explicitly address non-refundable pet fees, it's advisable for landlords to ensure that any such charges are reasonable and clearly outlined in the lease.​

Allocation of Pet Fees and Deposits

Understanding how pet-related funds can legally be used is essential for both landlords and tenants. Pet deposits are intended specifically to cover damages caused by pets, such as scratched floors, chewed doors, or urine stains on carpets. These funds must be returned to the tenant within 30 days after the lease ends, unless the landlord documents and provides an itemized list of deductions for pet-related damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Unlike pet deposits, pet rent is a non-refundable monthly fee designed to offset potential maintenance costs associated with allowing pets. Since pet rent is part of the rental agreement, tenants are required to pay it as long as they have an approved pet in the unit. Pet rent does not contribute toward covering damages and is not refundable at the end of the lease.

Non-refundable pet fees, on the other hand, are typically charged as a one-time payment at the start of a lease. These fees help cover initial cleaning expenses, deodorization, or additional sanitation required due to pet occupancy. Unlike deposits, these fees are not required to be refunded, regardless of whether the pet causes damage.

To avoid disputes, landlords should ensure that all pet-related charges are clearly outlined in the lease agreement. Clearly distinguishing refundable pet deposits from non-refundable pet fees and monthly pet rent will help prevent confusion and ensure that both landlords and tenants understand their financial obligations.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Legal Definitions and Protections

In Georgia, it's crucial to distinguish between service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs), as they are afforded different rights and protections under the law.​

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Georgia state law, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been specially trained to perform tasks or services for an individual with a physical disability. These tasks must be directly related to the person's disability, such as guiding individuals with visual impairments, alerting those with hearing impairments, or assisting with mobility. Service animals are granted broad access to public accommodations and housing, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of society. ​

ESAs provide companionship and emotional support to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities but do not require specialized training to perform specific tasks. Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals with a disability-related need for an ESA are entitled to reasonable accommodations in housing, even in properties that have a no-pet policy. However, ESAs do not have the same public access rights as service animals.

Implications for Landlords

Landlords in Georgia must navigate their responsibilities concerning service animals and ESAs carefully to comply with federal and state laws.​

Landlords are required to allow service animals in their rental properties, even if they have a no-pet policy. They cannot impose breed, size, or weight restrictions on service animals. Additionally, landlords are prohibited from charging pet deposits, pet fees, or additional rent for service animals. However, tenants can be held responsible for any damages caused by the service animal beyond normal wear and tear. When the need for a service animal is not obvious, landlords are permitted to ask only two questions:​

1. Is the animal required because of a disability?​
2. What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?​

Landlords cannot request documentation, require the animal to demonstrate its tasks, or inquire about the nature of the tenant's disability. ​

For ESAs, landlords must make reasonable accommodations, which may include waiving no-pet policies or pet-related fees. Tenants requesting an ESA accommodation should provide reliable documentation from a licensed healthcare professional verifying the need for the animal due to a disability.

Landlords can verify the authenticity of such documentation but must handle all information confidentially and cannot demand detailed medical records. Similar to service animals, tenants are liable for any damages caused by their ESAs. It's important to note that while landlords must accommodate ESAs, they can impose certain reasonable restrictions, such as ensuring the animal does not pose a direct threat to the safety of others or cause substantial property damage. ​

Prohibited Charges

Georgia law aligns with federal regulations in prohibiting landlords from imposing additional fees or deposits for service animals and ESAs.

Landlords cannot charge any pet-related deposits, fees, or higher rent amounts for tenants with service animals. This ensures that individuals with disabilities are not financially burdened for having a service animal. However, if a service animal causes damage to the property, the landlord can deduct the cost of repairs from the tenant's standard security deposit, similar to any other tenant-caused damages. ​

While landlords must accommodate ESAs, they cannot charge pet fees or deposits specifically for the ESA. Nonetheless, tenants are responsible for any damage caused by the ESA, and landlords can apply charges for repairs against the tenant's security deposit. It's essential for landlords to distinguish between general pet policies and the requirements for accommodating ESAs to avoid potential legal issues. 

By understanding and adhering to these regulations, landlords can ensure compliance with the law while fostering an inclusive environment for all tenants.​

Best Practices for Landlords

Establishing clear and fair pet policies is crucial for landlords to protect their property interests 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 a Comprehensive Pet Policy

A well-defined pet policy should be incorporated into the lease agreement and address the following elements:​

• Permissible Pets: Specify which types of pets are allowed, including any restrictions on species, breeds, sizes, or the number of pets permitted.​
• Pet Deposits and Fees: Clearly outline any additional deposits or monthly fees associated with pet ownership, ensuring they comply with Georgia's regulations.​
• 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.

Screening and Documentation

To reduce risks associated with allowing pets in rental properties, landlords should implement a thorough pet screening process and require proper documentation from tenants. A well-structured screening process helps ensure that only responsible pet owners and well-behaved pets are approved for occupancy.

Best Practices for Pet Screening

Landlords should require tenants to complete a pet application that includes the following details:

• Pet Description: Information about the pet’s breed, size, weight, age, and temperament.
• Vaccination & Health Records: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations and annual veterinary checkups to ensure the pet is healthy.
• Behavior & Training History: Indications of whether the pet has undergone obedience training or has a history of aggression or disturbances.
• References from Previous Landlords: Statements confirming the pet’s behavior in past rental properties, including whether any damage was caused.
• Tenant Certification: A signed statement from the tenant acknowledging their responsibility for their pet’s actions and any damages incurred.

Some landlords also opt to meet the pet in person before approving it, particularly for large dogs or exotic animals.

Lease Agreement Clauses for Pet Owners

Once a pet is approved, landlords should ensure that all pet-related terms and conditions are explicitly stated in the lease agreement. Important clauses should cover:

• Pet Liability: Tenants must acknowledge full responsibility for their pet’s behavior, including any noise disturbances, damages, or harm caused to others.
• Restricted Areas: If applicable, specify designated areas where pets are not allowed, such as pools, common areas, or playgrounds.
• Pet Waste Disposal: Require tenants to clean up after their pets and comply with local pet waste disposal regulations.
• Violation Consequences: Clearly define penalties for violating pet policies, which may include fines, additional security requirements, or even eviction in severe cases.

By implementing clear pet screening guidelines and ensuring that lease agreements contain enforceable pet clauses, landlords can mitigate risks while accommodating responsible pet-owning tenants. A well-documented pet policy not only protects the rental property but also helps create a smooth rental experience for both landlords and tenants.

Key Takeaways for Landlords

Navigating pet policies in Georgia rental properties requires landlords to balance protecting their investment with complying with tenant rights. While landlords can set pet policies, charge pet rent, and require pet deposits, they must also adhere to Georgia’s security deposit laws and federal protections for service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs).

Final Thoughts on Pet Policies in Georgia Rentals

• Landlords have full discretion over pet policies and can restrict certain breeds, sizes, or total number of pets, or enforce a no-pet policy—but all rules must be clearly stated in the lease to be legally enforceable.
• Security deposits in Georgia are capped at two times the monthly rent, which includes any pet deposit. Pet deposits should be separate from general security deposits and must be returned within 30 days unless deductions are made for damages.
• Pet rent is legal in Georgia, and landlords can charge a monthly pet fee. However, pet rent amounts must be disclosed in the lease agreement and should be reasonable and competitive with the market.
• Service animals and ESAs are not considered pets, meaning landlords cannot charge pet deposits, pet rent, or additional fees for them. However, tenants are responsible for any damages caused by their assistance animal.
• Evictions related to pets must follow Georgia’s legal process, ensuring that any lease violations—such as unauthorized pets, excessive property damage, or disturbances—are handled in compliance with state law.
• Regular property inspections help landlords monitor pet-related wear and tear, but tenants must be given appropriate notice before an inspection is conducted.
• A well-structured lease agreement protects both landlords and tenants by outlining pet policies, deposits, tenant responsibilities, and violation consequences.
• Pet screening is highly recommended to ensure only responsible pet owners and well-behaved pets are approved in rental properties.

By implementing clear and enforceable pet policies, landlords can protect their rental properties while still accommodating responsible pet owners. A legally sound and fair approach ensures that landlords retain control over their rental units while complying with Georgia law.

Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Pet Rent Laws

Is pet rent legal in Georgia?

Yes, in Georgia, landlords are permitted to charge pet rent. This recurring monthly fee is added to the tenant's rent to cover potential additional wear and tear or maintenance costs associated with allowing pets on the property. It's essential that any pet rent charges are clearly outlined in the lease agreement to ensure transparency and mutual understanding between landlords and tenants.​

Can a landlord charge a pet deposit for an emotional support animal in Georgia?

No, under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), emotional support animals (ESAs) are not considered pets. Therefore, landlords in Georgia cannot charge pet deposits, additional fees, or pet rent for ESAs. However, tenants remain responsible for any damages caused by their ESA beyond normal wear and tear. It's important for tenants to provide appropriate documentation from a licensed healthcare professional to substantiate the need for an ESA.​

What is the new law for renters in Georgia?

As of July 1, 2024, the Safe At Home Act was enacted in Georgia, introducing significant changes to rental agreements. A notable provision of this act is the cap on security deposits, limiting them to a maximum of two times the monthly rent. This cap encompasses all deposits, including those for damages, pets, and advance rent. Landlords and tenants should review and, if necessary, update their lease agreements to ensure compliance with this new regulation.​

What is a reasonable amount for pet rent?

The amount charged for pet rent in Georgia varies based on factors such as the property's location, the type and size of the pet, and the landlord's policies. On average, pet rent ranges from $20 to $60 per month. It's advisable for landlords to set pet rent at a rate that reflects potential additional costs associated with allowing pets while remaining competitive within the local rental market. All pet rent charges should be explicitly detailed in the lease agreement to avoid misunderstandings.​

How can tenants avoid paying pet rent?

While landlords in Georgia are within their rights to charge pet rent, tenants might consider the following approaches to potentially reduce or avoid this fee:​

• Negotiation: Open communication with the landlord can be beneficial. Tenants might offer to provide references from previous landlords attesting to their pet's good behavior or propose a higher security deposit (within legal limits) in lieu of monthly pet rent.​
• Pet-Free Housing: Seek out rental properties that do not charge pet rent. Some landlords may choose to forgo pet fees to attract a broader pool of tenants.​

It's crucial for tenants to approach this matter transparently and honestly. Misrepresenting a pet as a service animal or ESA without proper documentation is both unethical and illegal, carrying potential legal consequences.​

6. What counts as a pet when renting?

In the context of rental agreements in Georgia, a pet is typically defined as a domesticated animal kept for pleasure or companionship, such as dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, or small mammals like rabbits and hamsters. However, service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) are distinct categories and are not considered pets under federal law.​

• Service Animals: These are dogs (and in some cases, miniature horses) that are individually trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are granted broad access rights, and landlords cannot impose pet fees or deposits for them.​
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): These animals provide comfort and support to individuals with emotional or psychological conditions. While ESAs do not have the same public access rights as service animals, under the Fair Housing Act, tenants with ESAs are entitled to reasonable accommodations in housing without additional pet fees, provided they have appropriate documentation.​

Understanding these distinctions is vital for both landlords and tenants to ensure compliance with applicable laws and to foster a harmonious living environment.​

For detailed information and guidance, consulting the Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook or seeking legal counsel is recommended to navigate specific situations effectively.