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 Connecticut, landlords have the discretion to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent, but these charges are subject to the state's general landlord-tenant laws. Connecticut does not have specific statutes that govern pet deposits, fees, or rent, so the general rules about security deposits and additional rent apply. Under Connecticut law, a landlord can ask for a security deposit, which may include a pet deposit, of up to two months' rent (or one month's rent if the tenant is 62 years of age or older). This deposit is meant to cover damages to the property, which could include pet-related damages, and is typically refundable if there are no such damages at the end of the tenancy. Pet fees, if charged, are usually non-refundable and considered a one-time charge for allowing a pet on the premises. Pet rent is an additional monthly charge on top of the regular rent and is also allowed as long as it is agreed upon in the lease. Tenants with pets should carefully review their lease agreements to understand any pet-related charges and their refundability. It's also important to note that local ordinances may impose additional regulations, so tenants should check for any city or town-specific rules regarding pets.