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 Minnesota, landlords have the discretion to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent, but these charges are subject to state law limitations. Under Minnesota law, a pet deposit is considered part of the security deposit, and the total amount of the security deposit (including the pet deposit) may not exceed two months' rent. The pet deposit is refundable if there are no damages caused by the pet that exceed normal wear and tear. Pet fees in Minnesota are typically nonrefundable one-time charges that a landlord may require for allowing a pet on the premises. Pet rent is an additional recurring monthly charge that a tenant agrees to pay for having a pet in the rental unit. It's important for tenants to review their lease agreements for specific terms regarding pet deposits, fees, and rent. Additionally, local ordinances may impose further regulations, so tenants and landlords should also be aware of any city or town-specific laws regarding pets in rental properties.