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 Missouri, landlords have the discretion to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent, as there are no specific state statutes that regulate these charges for private housing. The pet deposit is typically a refundable sum that may be used to cover damages caused by a tenant's pet, and its return is contingent upon the condition of the property at the end of the lease term. Pet fees in Missouri are generally nonrefundable and are paid to the landlord for the privilege of having a pet on the premises. Pet rent is an additional recurring charge that tenants pay monthly for their pets. The amounts and conditions of these charges are usually outlined in the lease agreement. It's important for tenants to review their lease documents and any local ordinances that may apply, as some cities or towns in Missouri might have their own regulations regarding pet-related charges. Tenants and landlords should also be aware of the federal Fair Housing Act, which requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities, which may include waiving pet fees for service or emotional support animals.