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 Kentucky, the laws regarding pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent are not specifically regulated at the state level, meaning there is no statewide statute that explicitly governs these charges. Instead, these matters are typically addressed in the lease agreement between the landlord and tenant. Landlords in Kentucky are allowed to charge pet deposits and pet fees, and they may also require pet rent as part of their leasing terms. Pet deposits in Kentucky are generally refundable provided that the pet does not cause damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear. Pet fees, on the other hand, are usually nonrefundable and are meant to cover the privilege of having a pet on the premises. Pet rent is an additional monthly charge that can vary based on the pet's size and number. It's important for tenants to review their lease agreements carefully to understand the terms regarding any pet-related charges. Additionally, local ordinances in various towns and cities may have their own regulations, so tenants and landlords should also be aware of any local laws that may apply.