Laws for pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent vary from state to state—and sometimes between towns and cities with city codes and ordinances that address these charges.

A pet deposit is a one-time payment designed to protect the landlord and the leased premises against damages that may be caused by a tenant’s pet. Pet deposits are usually refundable, depending on the terms of the lease agreement and any applicable state or local laws.

Pet fees are usually a one-time payment required of a tenant to allow the tenant’s pet to stay at the property. Pet fees are usually nonrefundable.

Pet rent is a recurring monthly charge for the tenant’s pet to stay at the property and will often vary depending on the size and number of pets that stay at the property.

Laws regarding pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent are usually located in a state’s statutes—and sometimes towns and cities have additional laws (city codes and ordinances) that govern a landlord’s ability to require additional charges for tenants with pets.

In Kansas, landlords have the discretion to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent as part of their lease agreements with tenants. A pet deposit is typically a refundable sum that serves as security for property damage caused by a tenant's pet. The refundability of this deposit is contingent upon the absence of pet-related damage to the property, and the terms outlined in the lease agreement. Pet fees in Kansas are generally nonrefundable payments that grant permission for a pet to reside on the property. Unlike pet deposits, these fees are not intended to cover damages. Pet rent is an additional, recurring monthly charge that tenants pay for their pets to live with them. The amount of pet rent can vary based on factors such as the number and size of the pets. It's important to note that while Kansas state law allows for these charges, local city codes and ordinances may impose further regulations or restrictions. Therefore, tenants and landlords should review both state statutes and local laws to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations regarding pet-related charges.