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 Montana, the regulation of pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent is generally governed by state law, but local ordinances may also apply. According to Montana law, landlords can charge a pet deposit as part of the security deposit, which is limited to the equivalent of two months' rent (Montana Code Annotated § 70-25-201). This pet deposit is intended to cover damages caused by a tenant's pet and is typically refundable if there are no pet-related damages to the property. Pet fees in Montana are one-time nonrefundable payments that a landlord may require for allowing a pet on the premises. Pet rent is an additional monthly charge that a tenant pays for having a pet in the rental unit. It's important for tenants to review their lease agreements to understand the specific terms regarding pet deposits, fees, and rent. Additionally, they should check for any local city or town ordinances that might impose further regulations or restrictions on pet-related charges.