You’ve just found the perfect rental unit, but now comes the big question: can your landlord say no to pets? If you’re a pet owner, this uncertainty can quickly turn a move into a stressful experience. The rules around whether landlords can say no to pets in Canada can vary widely, especially when you’re relocating between provinces. Here is a breakdown on whether your landlord can legally say no to pets in your province, what pet restrictions are common, and what your rights are if issues arise.
Can Landlords Say No to Pets in Canada?
The short answer? It depends on where you live.
Rental rules in Canada are set at the provincial and territorial level, which means there’s no single national policy. While some provinces protect tenants who have pets, others give landlords broad control over what animals are allowed in a rental unit.
Here’s a province-by-province overview of how landlord pet policies vary:
Ontario
Ontario is one of the most pet-friendly provinces for renters. Under Section 14 of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), any “no pets” clause in a lease is void. That means a landlord cannot prohibit pets once a lease is signed—regardless of what’s written in it.
However, there are still a few caveats:
- Landlords can refuse to rent to you before you sign a lease if you have a pet.
- You can be evicted only if your pet causes significant issues like damage, danger, or allergies.
- If you’re renting in a condominium, building-wide pet bans set by the condo corporation may still apply.
British Columbia
In BC, the answer to “can landlords say no to pets” is yes. Landlords are allowed to say no to pets, or place restrictions on the type, size, or number of pets—as long as these terms are clearly included in the lease. They can also charge a pet deposit, but it’s capped at half a month’s rent. Certified service animals cannot be excluded by “no pet” clauses.
Alberta
Alberta landlords have the right to prohibit pets entirely, or to allow only certain types or breeds. If pets are allowed, landlords can request extra fees or deposits, provided those follow fair housing and consumer protection guidelines. Service animals are protected by law and cannot be refused.
Quebec
Quebec leases may include enforceable “no pets” clauses. If you sign a lease that bans pets, you’re legally bound to follow it—even if your pet is quiet and well-behaved. Service animals are exempted under human rights laws.
Manitoba
Landlords in Manitoba can ban pets in leases and request a pet damage deposit, which can’t exceed one month’s rent. Tenants may face eviction for breaching no-pet clauses.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan has no law that protects tenants with pets. So yes, landlords can say no to pets in lease terms. Pet deposits are allowed and, as always, service animals are exempt from pet bans and associated fees.
Atlantic Canada
In Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland & Labrador, landlords can prohibit pets in leases. These bans are legally binding. However, service animals are always exempt under human rights laws, and landlords cannot charge an additional deposit for pets.
Territories
Landlords in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut typically have full discretion over pet policies in private rentals.
- In Nunavut, public housing providers must allow pets and cannot deny tenants for having them.
- In Yukon, only one security deposit per tenancy is allowed, capped at one month’s rent, meaning no separate pet deposit is permitted, although landlords can still enforce pet bans.
Can Landlords Limit Pet Size, Type, or Number?
Even in provinces where landlords can’t outright ban pets, they can still impose restrictions based on:
- Size or breed (e.g., “no large dogs” or “no pit bulls”).
- Number of animals (e.g., maximum two pets per unit).
- Type of animal (e.g., no exotic pets or reptiles).
These rules are often tied to concerns about noise, property damage, allergies, or safety. While many of these limits are legal when included in a lease, landlords must still ensure they do not violate provincial human rights laws.
Tips for Renting with Pets in Canada
Here’s how to increase your chances of landing a great pet-friendly home:
- Create a pet resume: Include your pet’s age, breed, size, vaccination records, and training certifications.
- Ask for references: Landlords are more likely to trust a pet with a proven track record.
- Be transparent: Never try to hide a pet—this can cause legal trouble down the road.
- Use filters: Search listing platforms for “pet-friendly rentals” to save time.
- Offer to pay a pet deposit or sign a pet agreement, if allowed.
Know Your Rights Before You Sign
When it comes to renting with pets, knowing where landlords can say no to pets is crucial. Before signing a lease, read it carefully. Don’t assume what was legal in your last province applies in your new one.
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