Understanding Florida pet rent laws is important for both landlords and tenants. In 2025, landlords can charge pet rent, deposits, and fees for regular pets—but not for service or emotional support animals. LeaseRunner’s guide explains what charges are legal, how deposits work, and what rights tenants have. Learn the simple rules to manage pet-friendly rentals in Florida with confidence and stay fully compliant with state law.

Overview of Pet Rent Rules in Florida

Understanding Florida pet rent laws is important for both landlords and tenants. These rules explain when pet rent is allowed, what fees are legal, and how they fit under state and federal housing laws.

Is Pet Rent Allowed in Florida?

Yes, pet rent is legal in Florida. Landlords may charge a monthly fee to tenants who keep pets on the property. If you’re wondering “Is pet rent legal in Florida?” or “Can landlords charge pet rent in Florida?”, the answer is yes - as long as it applies only to regular pets. However, there are exemptions for assistance animals. These animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Charging fees for them would violate pet-friendly rental laws in Florida and federal housing rules. We’ll discuss these aspects further in the next sections.

Current Legal Status (2025 Update)

As of 2025, the new Florida rental laws 2025 continue to allow landlords to decide whether to charge pet rent. The state has no specific cap or limit on how much can be charged. The amount must simply be reasonable and written in the lease.

Recent updates to the Florida Landlord and Tenant Act keep fee control at the state level, not local governments. This means pet rent policies are the same across Florida, making it one of the more landlord-friendly states.

Under current Rent laws, landlords can:

  • Add pet rent as a recurring monthly charge.
  • Request a refundable pet deposit for potential damage.
  • Charge a one-time, non-refundable pet fee if it’s written in the lease.

Landlords must still follow disability laws. Under Florida Statute §413.08, service animals and ESAs are not considered pets, so no extra charges apply. While there is currently no active proposed bill on pet rentals that changes these terms, property owners should stay informed in case future legislation modifies fee structures.

By keeping lease terms clear, following Florida pet rent laws, and separating pet fees, landlords protect their property, and tenants understand their rights. Clear communication builds trust and ensures compliance with all pet-friendly rental laws in Florida.

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Pet Fee and Deposit Limits in Florida

Florida pet rent laws outline how landlords can collect pet-related payments and how tenants are protected. The rules cover deposits, monthly rent, and non-refundable fees in a simple, consistent way across the state.

Security Deposit Caps in Florida

Florida has no security deposit limit and no one-month cap deposit rule. Landlords may choose the amount, but it must be fair and clearly listed in the lease.

  • Any standard pet deposit for rentals must follow Florida Statute §83.49.
  • Pet deposits refundable rules apply — deposits must be returned if no damage occurs.
  • Always check your lease to see how the terms for pet fees vs deposits in Florida are.

These Security Deposit Laws help ensure fairness and prevent confusion between refundable deposits and other fees.

Rules on Pet Rent Charges

Under Florida pet rent laws, landlords can include monthly pet rent in the lease. This extra charge is added to the regular rent to cover minor wear and upkeep.

  • Pet rent cannot be charged for service or emotional support animals.
  • Florida has no rent control laws, so landlords set their own pet rent rates.
  • The amount should be clearly written into the lease agreement.

When leases are transparent, both landlords and tenants understand what they’re paying for.

Non-Refundable Pet Fees in Florida

A non-refundable pet fee in Florida is legal if it is clearly stated in the lease. This fee is different from a deposit because it is not returned at the end of the rental term.

  • A non-refundable pet fee usually covers cleaning or small repairs.
  • It does not fall under §83.49 since it’s not refundable.
  • Clear wording about pet fee vs deposit helps avoid disputes later.

This ensures that pet costs are handled fairly under Florida pet rent laws.

Local Ordinances in Florida

Florida law blocks cities and counties from adding extra pet fee rules. This means there is no local pet deposit limit in Florida or extra restrictions by area.

Statewide security deposit laws and pet rent laws apply everywhere. This makes it easier for both landlords and tenants to follow the same rules.

guide explaining Florida pet deposits, fees, and legal limits

Assistance Animals Rule in Florida

Under Florida pet rent laws, assistance animals have legal protection in housing. Landlords must follow both federal and Florida law on emotional support animal rules. These laws require reasonable accommodation for pet housing for tenants with disabilities. Assistance animals are not regular pets, so normal pet restrictions do not apply.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in Florida

An ESA gives comfort to tenants with emotional or mental health needs. Under the ESA definition in FHA, the animal does not need special training. The tenant must have a valid reason supported by a licensed healthcare provider.

Key points include:

  • ESAs are not pets, so Florida pet rent laws forbid extra rent or pet fees.
  • The landlord can ask for simple proof from a professional who knows the tenant’s condition.
  • Following ESA laws in Florida protects both the tenant and landlord.

Landlords should also respect Tenant Screening Laws to avoid discrimination during the rental approval process.

When Pet Rent and Fees Cannot Be Charged

Landlords cannot charge pet rent or extra fees for assistance animals. The rule no pet rent for ESA and fees prohibited for assistance animals applies under both federal and Florida law.

To follow the law:

  • Know the difference between a pet fee and a pet deposit. Pet fees can apply to regular pets, but not to service animals or ESAs.
  • Write clear lease terms that separate pet rules from assistance animal housing rules.
  • Charge only for real property damage, not for the animal itself.

These steps help landlords stay compliant and avoid conflicts with tenants.

Verification and Documentation Rules in Florida

The verification process assistance animal is simple. Landlords may ask for proof only within legal limits.

For service animals, they may ask:

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

For ESAs, tenants can provide a note from a licensed healthcare provider confirming the need. Landlords may check vaccination or city license records but cannot demand extra paperwork.

Important reminders:

By following these simple rules, landlords can protect their property, stay within the law, and support tenants who rely on assistance animals.

Rights and Responsibilities for Landlord and Tenants

Under Florida pet rent laws, both landlords and tenants must understand their basic rights and duties. Clear rules help avoid disputes and keep rental agreements fair for everyone.

overview of landlord and tenant rights under Florida pet laws

Landlord Duties Under Florida Law

Landlords must follow state and federal rules when pets are allowed on the property. These landlord obligations for pets protect both sides and ensure fair treatment under non-discrimination housing laws in Florida.

  • Give written notice that meets notice requirements for security deposit:
    • 30 days to claim deductions.
    • 15 days to return the deposit if no claim is made.
  • Only deduct for damage beyond normal wear.
  • Keep pet deposits separate and held in escrow.
  • Do not charge pet fees or pet rent for service animals or ESAs. Tenants have the right to reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act.
  • Follow legal dog breed restrictions in Florida if applied.
  • A landlord cannot require pet liability insurance for renters if it violates housing laws.

These steps help landlords stay compliant with Florida pet rent laws and avoid legal trouble.

Tenant Rights and Obligations

Tenants also have clear rights and rules to follow under pet rent laws. They must care for their pets responsibly and follow lease terms.

  • Pets are allowed only if listed in the lease.
  • Tenants do not pay extra for service animals or ESAs.
  • They must cover any damage beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Keep pets clean, licensed, and vaccinated as required.
  • Breaking pet rules, like can you get evicted for dog sitting, may lead to eviction if it violates the lease.

By following these rules, tenants keep their homes secure and their landlord relationship positive.

Managing Pet-Related Damages and Deductions

Managing deposits and pet-related damages fairly is vital under Florida pet rent laws. Landlords and tenants should keep records to avoid conflict.

  • Separate pet deposits from the standard security deposit.
  • Send a written notice within 30 days for any deductions.
  • Return deposits within 15 days if no claim exists.
  • Tenants have 15 days to dispute a deduction.

Regular inspections, photos, and clear communication help resolve issues quickly and protect everyone’s rights. If disputes end up with either landlords or tenants winning, both sides must follow the laws. Landlords must comply with eviction laws, show a clear reason to evict the tenants. In another case, if the renter wants to move out, they have to give notice to quit and vacate the premises. 

Practical Steps to Prevent Disputes for Landlords

Disputes often happen when pet terms are unclear. To avoid problems, landlords should plan, document everything, and communicate rules early. These steps help keep properties protected and in line with Florida pet rent laws.

tips for Florida landlords to prevent rental and pet disputes

1. State Clear Pet Terms in the Lease

Create a simple lease that follows pet rent laws. Write clear limits on the number, size, and type of pets allowed. Use a pet addendum template for Florida to explain:

  • The exact amount of monthly pet rent.
  • Which fees are refundable or non-refundable?
  • Who pays for cleaning or repair costs?

Include a lease clause for pets in the Florida section so all pet terms are legally binding. Note that service animals and ESAs are not subject to pet rent or fees. Simple wording avoids confusion and protects both parties.

2. Document Unit Condition at Move-In/Move-Out

Always check the property before and after each tenant. Use a move-in inspection pets Florida checklist with photos and short notes. At the end of the lease, do a move-out walkthrough pet inspection. Compare new photos with the originals.

  • List any pet-related damage.
  • Keep receipts for repairs or cleaning.
  • Share a copy with the tenant.

If any pet items or personal belongings are left behind, handle them according to Abandoned Property Laws before disposal. This process proves what damage was caused and ensures all actions are legal under Florida pet rent laws.

3. Communicate Pet Expectations Early

Talk about pet rules before signing the lease. Explain cleaning duties, leash areas, and noise control. Show a pet policy lease sample so tenants know exactly what they are agreeing to. Tell them that service animal accommodation and emotional support animal housing rules mean no extra pet rent or deposits, but damage must still be paid for. Clear talks early prevent later arguments.

4. Keep Itemized Records of Pet-Related Charges

Track all pet-related costs in one place. Make a simple list with:

  • Monthly pet rent payments.
  • Non-refundable pet fee details.
  • Any cleaning or repair costs.

Attach receipts and photos for proof. Send updates to tenants if deductions are made. Keeping clear, short records supports compliance with Florida pet rent laws and reduces the risk of disputes.

5. Streamline Applications and Screening

Use an online rental application to collect pet details and documents. It saves time and removes paper forms. This digital process helps landlords stay organized and work faster. Try LeaseRunner’s secure platform to collect applicant and pet information quickly and safely.

During tenant background screening, landlords can set clear pet rules before approval. Check vaccination records and past rental history to make sure pets are well-behaved. Use LeaseRunner’s tenant screening service to verify documents and choose reliable, pet-friendly tenants with confidence.

Conclusions

Following Florida pet rent laws helps landlords and tenants stay safe and fair. Clear rules and honest fees prevent most problems before they happen. Use LeaseRunner to manage everything online—collect rental applications, screen tenants, and track pet agreements in one place. It’s simple, secure, and saves time. Keep your Florida rentals compliant, pet-friendly, and easy to manage with Lease Runner.

FAQs

What is the new pet rent law in Florida?

Landlords can charge pet rent and separate pet fees, but they cannot charge for service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs). All fees must be clearly listed in the lease to be valid under Florida pet rent laws.

What is the maximum amount a landlord can charge for pet rent in Florida?

There’s no legal cap on pet rent in Florida. Landlords set the amount, but it must be reasonable, disclosed in the lease, and comply with the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Can a landlord break a lease for pets in Florida?

Yes. A landlord can end a lease if a tenant violates pet policy terms, such as keeping unauthorized pets or causing damage, but they must follow Florida’s legal notice procedures.

Can I get evicted for pet sitting in Florida?

Yes. If pet sitting breaks lease rules or involves unapproved animals, a landlord can issue a violation notice and proceed with eviction under Florida landlord-tenant laws.