In Alberta, landlords have the absolute right to ban pets from their rental properties. If they do allow pets, they can legally charge a non-refundable pet fee or a monthly “pet rent” in Edmonton. However, your standard security deposit plus any refundable pet deposit cannot legally exceed the cost of one month’s rent. Only certified service dogs are protected from these bans.
Finding the perfect apartment in Edmonton can be a challenge, and the search becomes significantly harder when you are bringing a furry friend along. Many tenants mistakenly believe that blanket “no pets” clauses are illegal in Canada. While this is true in certain provinces like Ontario, the rules in Alberta are completely different. Your landlord has substantial power to dictate who-and what-lives in their property.
Understanding your rights under the Alberta Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) is vital to keeping a roof over your head and your pet by your side. If you sneak an animal into a pet-free building, you risk facing a rapid 14-day eviction notice. This guide will break down the exact laws regarding pets in Edmonton, how fees work, and what legal protections exist for tenants with certified service animals.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Renting with Pets in Alberta
Renting with a pet requires honesty and careful review of your lease. Landlords in Edmonton are extremely vigilant, and attempting to hide a dog or cat usually backfires. Here is how you should handle the process legally.
Step 1: Review the Tenancy Agreement Carefully
Before you sign anything, read the lease agreement. The landlord must explicitly state in the written contract whether pets are allowed, restricted by size/breed, or completely banned. If the lease states “No Pets,” this is legally binding in Alberta. You cannot move in and later argue that the rule is unfair.
Step 2: Negotiate a Pet Addendum
If the landlord is hesitant but open to the idea, you can negotiate. Offer to sign a formal “Pet Addendum.” This is an extra document attached to your lease that clearly outlines the rules: you agree to pick up waste, keep the pet quiet, and cover the cost of professional carpet cleaning when you eventually move out.
Step 3: Pay the Required Pet Fees
Once you both agree, the landlord will likely charge you a fee. Make sure you get a receipt that clearly labels whether the money is a non-refundable fee or a refundable deposit. This tiny distinction dictates whether you will ever see that money again when your lease ends.
How Much Does it Cost to Keep a Pet in Edmonton?
Landlords take on extra risk when allowing pets, as animals can scratch floors or damage doors. To offset this risk, property managers in Alberta generally utilize three different fee structures.
| Fee Structure | Average Cost in Edmonton (CAD) | Is it Legal under the RTA? |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Refundable Pet Fee | $150 – $350 (one-time) | Yes, if explicitly written in the lease as non-refundable. |
| Monthly Pet Rent | $25 – $50 per month | Yes, this is an ongoing agreement for the privilege of keeping a pet. |
| Refundable Pet Deposit | Varies | Yes, BUT the total of all deposits cannot exceed one month’s rent. |
How Long Can a Landlord Give You to Remove an Illegal Pet?
If you break your lease by secretly harbouring a pet, your landlord can take swift legal action. They will usually issue a formal “14-Day Notice to Terminate a Tenancy” for a substantial breach of the agreement.
You will have 14 days to either permanently remove the animal from the premises or vacate the apartment. If you refuse to do either, the landlord can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) to forcibly evict you through a court order. Dealing with RTDRS is stressful, and hiring a local real estate lawyer to defend against eviction can cost you significantly in legal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) protected in Alberta?
No. In Alberta, “Emotional Support Animals” do not hold the same legal rights as certified service dogs. Landlords are generally not legally obligated to bypass a “no pets” rule for an ESA unless you file a successful, highly documented human rights complaint under the Alberta Human Rights Act, which is difficult.
Can a landlord ban a certified service dog?
No. Under the Alberta Service Dogs Act, certified service dogs (such as guide dogs for the blind) are completely exempt from “no pet” policies. A landlord cannot refuse your application, nor can they charge you a pet fee or pet rent for a certified service animal.
Can a condo board force me to get rid of my pet?
Yes. Even if your individual landlord allows the pet, if the building’s Condominium Corporation has a strict bylaw banning animals, the condo board can demand the pet be removed. Always check condo bylaws before renting a unit.
My deposit is already one month’s rent. Can they ask for a pet deposit?
No. The RTA strictly states that a security deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent. If your standard deposit hits that maximum limit, the landlord cannot legally ask for an additional “refundable pet deposit.” They can, however, ask for a “non-refundable pet fee,” which is a separate charge.
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