When renting with a pet, expect to confirm three things at each community: the pet policy (breed/weight limits and number of pets), the costs (monthly pet rent plus a one-time pet fee or deposit), and the pet amenities (dog parks, waste stations, nearby trails). Service animals and ESAs are not pets under fair-housing rules and aren't charged pet fees, though documentation may be required.
Sources: 1National Apartment Association; 2Zillow renter search data; 3PetScreening 2026 State of Pets in Rental Housing.
Pet rent vs. pet deposit vs. pet fee
These three are different. Pet rent is a recurring monthly charge added to your rent. A pet deposit is refundable (like a security deposit, returned if there's no pet damage). A pet fee is a one-time, non-refundable charge. Many communities use a combination — confirm the exact structure and amounts at the specific community before you apply.
Questions to ask about a community's pet policy
Before you sign, ask: Are there breed or weight restrictions? How many pets are allowed per home? What's the monthly pet rent, and is there a deposit or fee? Where are the designated pet-relief areas and dog parks? Is there a pet-washing station on site? Getting these in writing avoids surprises at move-in.
Pet amenities worth looking for
The best pet-friendly communities go beyond just allowing pets. Look for on-site dog parks and pet-relief areas, pet waste stations, pet-washing/grooming stations, and proximity to walking trails or green space. Industry surveys show pet waste stations and dog parks are the most common pet amenities renters actually use.
Service animals and emotional-support animals
Under the federal Fair Housing Act, service animals and assistance/ESA animals are not considered pets — they're a reasonable accommodation. That generally means no pet rent, deposit, or breed/weight limits, though a community may request appropriate documentation. This is general information, not legal advice; confirm specifics with the community and current HUD guidance.
Moving in with your pet
Make the move easy on your pet: update ID tags and microchip info with the new address, keep vet and vaccination records handy (some communities ask for them), pack a familiar bed and toys, and set up one quiet room first so your pet can settle before exploring. A little prep makes day one calm for everyone.
Find pet-friendly apartments by metro
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between pet rent and a pet deposit?
Pet rent is a recurring monthly charge; a pet deposit is refundable and returned if there's no pet damage; a pet fee is a one-time non-refundable charge. Many communities use a combination.
Can a community deny my dog's breed?
Some communities apply breed or weight restrictions to pets. Policies vary by property, so verify your dog qualifies at the specific community before applying. (Service animals are exempt from breed/weight limits.)
Are service animals or ESAs charged pet rent?
Generally no. Under the Fair Housing Act, service animals and assistance/ESA animals are not pets, so they're typically exempt from pet rent, deposits and breed/weight limits, though documentation may be required. Confirm with the community.
How do I find pet-friendly apartments near me?
Browse our pet-friendly pages by metro (Dallas–Fort Worth, Phoenix, Oklahoma City, Nashville) and follow each community link to check its specific pet policy and live pricing.
Bring the whole family
Most of our communities welcome cats and dogs. Find one near you and check its pet policy.
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