Pet Policy for Tenants

Apartment Pet Policy - California  

This Pet Policy is established to ensure a safe, clean, and respectful living environment for all residents of the apartment community. It complies with California state laws and insurance guidelines as of 2025.

1. General Policy

Tenants may keep domesticated pets in their units with prior written approval from management. All pets must be registered with the property manager, and tenants must sign a Pet Agreement as part of their lease.

2. Permitted Pets

• Dogs (non-aggressive breeds only, see restrictions below)
• Cats (indoor only)
• Small caged animals (e.g., hamsters, rabbits)
• Fish (in tanks no larger than 20 gallons)

3. Breed and Size Restrictions

For insurance and safety reasons, the following dog breeds (or mixes thereof) are not permitted:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Rottweiler
• Doberman Pinscher
• Chow Chow
• Wolf hybrids

Dogs must not exceed 50 pounds in weight at full maturity.

4. Pet Fees and Deposits

Tenants may be required to pay:

• A refundable pet deposit (not to exceed the legal limit under California law)

No fees or deposits may be charged for service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs), as required by federal and state fair housing laws.

5. Service and Emotional Support Animals

Service animals and ESAs are not considered pets and are exempt from pet restrictions, deposits, and fees. Tenants requesting accommodation must provide appropriate documentation as allowed by law.

6. Tenant Responsibilities

• Pets must be house-trained and under control at all times.
• Dogs must be leashed in all common areas.
• Pet waste must be promptly cleaned and disposed of in designated areas.
• Pets must not disturb other tenants (e.g., excessive barking, aggression).
• Proof of current vaccinations and spay/neuter status must be provided annually.

7. Liability and Insurance

Tenants are fully responsible for any damage or injury caused by their pets. Tenants are required to carry renters insurance that includes pet liability coverage, especially for dog owners.

8. Violations and Enforcement

Failure to comply with this policy may result in fines, removal of the pet, or termination of tenancy. Management reserves the right to revoke pet privileges if the pet poses a threat to the community.

9. Amendments

This policy may be updated to reflect changes in California law or insurance requirements. Tenants will be notified in writing of any amendments.