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 New Mexico, landlords have the discretion to charge pet deposits, pet fees, and pet rent as part of their lease agreements with tenants. A pet deposit is typically a refundable sum that serves as a financial safeguard for the landlord against potential damages caused by a tenant's pet. The refundability of the pet deposit is contingent upon the condition of the property at the end of the lease term and is governed by the terms of the lease agreement. Pet fees in New Mexico are generally nonrefundable and are charged to tenants as a one-time cost for the privilege of having a pet on the premises. Pet rent is an additional recurring fee that tenants pay monthly for their pets to reside in the rental unit. The amounts and conditions of these charges are usually stipulated in the lease agreement. It is important for tenants to review their lease documents and understand their obligations regarding pet deposits, fees, and rent. Additionally, local ordinances in various towns and cities within New Mexico may impose further regulations on these charges, so it is advisable for both landlords and tenants to be aware of any specific local laws that may apply.