Robert Donahue

The newly enacted Pets in Housing Amendment Act of 2024 D.C. law will impose significant new limits on pet-related fees and restrictions for rental housing providers.

For leases starting on or after October 1, 2025:

• You may charge a refundable pet security deposit, but it must not exceed 15% of one month’s rent and must be kept separate from the standard security deposit.
• You may charge monthly pet rent, but only within strict limits:
  • Up to 1% of the first full month’s rent per dog; and
  • No more than 1% total for all other common household pets combined.
• You may not charge any fee, deposit, or rent related to a service or assistance animal, which is protected under federal and local disability laws.
• Reasonable pet policies (e.g., number limits) are still permitted, but must not be arbitrary or overly restrictive.

For leases starting on or after October 1, 2026:

• You may not impose restrictions or charge fees based on a pet’s breed, size, or weight.
• Any pet-related charges or conditions must comply strictly with the limitations described above.

These rules do not apply to leases that begin before October 1, 2025, but any lease renewed or newly executed on or after October 1, 2025, will be subject to the new requirements. We recommend reviewing your current lease templates, pet addenda, and fee schedules well in advance of these dates.