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 Virginia, landlords are permitted to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent as part of a lease agreement. The pet deposit is typically a refundable sum that serves as a financial safeguard for the landlord against any damage a pet might cause to the property. The amount and terms of the refund are usually outlined in the lease agreement. Pet fees in Virginia are generally nonrefundable and are paid to allow the tenant's pet to reside in the rental unit. Pet rent is an additional recurring fee that tenants pay monthly for their pets to live with them. The specific amounts and conditions for these charges can vary and should be clearly stated in the lease agreement. It's important to note that while Virginia state law allows for these charges, local ordinances may impose further regulations or limitations, so tenants and landlords should also check for any applicable city or county laws regarding pet-related charges.