Imagine losing out on a reliable tenant with a spotless rental history just because you don’t allow pets…that stings. In Phoenix, where the sun blazes and competition for good renters is even hotter, welcoming pets isn’t simply a nice gesture; it’s a smart business move.
Nearly six out of ten renters own pets, and pet-friendly listings rent about eight days faster. Allowing pets could be the competitive advantage that keeps your property filled.
1) Know the Legal Leash: Arizona Rules for Pets
Fees, deposits, and pet rent
Arizona allows pet rent, nonrefundable pet fees, and refundable pet deposits. By law, the total refundable security you hold (however labeled, including any refundable “pet deposit”) cannot exceed 1.5 times the monthly rent (A.R.S. § 33‑1321).
Non-refundable charges are permitted, but the lease must clearly indicate that they are non-refundable. After move-out, the refundable security deposit must be returned, along with a detailed itemization of lawful deductions, within 14 business days.
Assistance animals (Service Animals and ESAs)
Under fair housing rules, assistance animals are not pets. You may not charge pet fees, pet rent, or pet deposits for them. For service animals (dogs or miniature horses trained to perform tasks), if the disability and need are obvious, you typically do not request documentation.
For emotional support animals (ESAs) or when the need isn’t apparent, you may request reliable documentation from a licensed health‑care professional who has personal knowledge of the tenant’s disability‑related need, not a generic online certificate.
You may deny or remove an animal that poses a direct threat or would cause substantial property damage that reasonable measures cannot reduce.
New in 2025: Arizona law clarifies that a landlord is not liable for injuries or damages caused by an assistance or service animal allowed as a reasonable accommodation or modification.
Local compliance you can require
In Maricopa County, dogs 3 months and older must be vaccinated and licensed. Phoenix’s City Code (Chapter 8) addresses dogs at large, nuisance, bites, and animal care. Your lease can and should require tenants to comply with all applicable county and city animal regulations.
Breed restrictions
As of August 2025, private landlords in Arizona may set breed and weight limits for pets. (This does not apply to assistance animals; you may not impose breed or weight limits on them.) A 2024 proposal to prohibit breed restrictions in residential leases did not become law.
Separately, Arizona insurance law bars insurers from using a dog’s breed as the sole factor in underwriting or rating homeowner or renter policies (A.R.S. § 20‑1510). That’s a practical context if your carrier asks breed questions.
No mid‑lease surprises
You generally can’t impose new pet fees or restrictions mid‑lease without the tenant’s written agreement. Update policies at renewal and follow the notice provisions in both the lease and the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
2) The Business Case for “Pet‑Friendly”
Allowing pets can significantly benefit landlords in multiple ways. With the majority of renters now owning pets, a strict “no pets” policy excludes many qualified applicants. Pet-friendly listings also lease more quickly; studies show they rent out about eight days faster on major platforms.
Additionally, pet owners tend to stay longer, resulting in lower turnover. When you combine fair rules with a modest pet rent, you not only attract more tenants but also reduce vacancy and turnover costs in the long run.
3) Crafting Clear and Effective Pet Policies
An explicit pet agreement
Clearly outline permitted species, size or breed limits, and the number of pets. Include vaccination and licensing requirements, noise and waste rules, tenant responsibility for damages, and penalties for repeat violations.
Fees, deposits, and rent
- Pet rent: Flat monthly amount (market‑based).
- Nonrefundable pet fee: Allowed if the lease clearly labels it non-refundable and states its purpose.
- Refundable pet deposit: If you opt for one, note the 1.5 times rent cap on total refundable security.
Document each charge separately in the lease and avoid conflicting labels.
Tenant and pet screening (and what not to do)
Ask tenants to provide veterinary records, including proof of rabies vaccination for dogs. Also request references from previous landlords regarding the pet, details on its temperament, and microchip documentation if required. In smaller buildings, consider arranging a meet-and-greet for dogs.
You can require renters' insurance for all tenants, but remember that assistance animals are not considered pets, so you cannot charge additional deposits, fees, or insurance specifically for them.
Inspections and right of entry
Schedule periodic inspections to catch issues early. Arizona generally requires at least two days’ notice for non‑emergency entry and reasonable times (A.R.S. § 33‑1343). Avoid anything that could be construed as harassment.
Handling unauthorized pets (the ARLTA path)
If a tenant brings in a pet in violation of the lease, first offer a pet addendum with the applicable pet charges. If they refuse, unauthorized pets are usually a material noncompliance: serve a 10‑day notice to cure (A.R.S. § 33‑1368(A)).
For violations that materially affect health or safety, a 5‑day cure notice is available. If the tenant doesn’t cure, you may file for eviction under Arizona law.
Why Pet-Friendly Policies Pay Off in Phoenix
Allowing pets in your Phoenix rental isn’t about turning your property into a kennel; it’s about tapping into a larger tenant pool, filling vacancies faster, and encouraging tenants to stay longer. By setting clear rules, charging fair fees, and enforcing consistent standards, landlords can protect their investments while boosting revenue.
Data shows most renters in Arizona have pets, and pet-friendly listings consistently outperform “no pet” rentals in both speed and retention. With the right policies, you can reduce turnover, maximize income, and build stronger tenant relationships.
Ready to boost income without turning your rental into a zoo? At RPM Phoenix Property Management, we handle policies, screening, and compliance so you can focus on what matters most. Let us take the leash, your investment will thank you!
FAQ
Can landlords charge both a pet deposit and pet rent in Arizona?
Yes. You can charge pet rent, fees, and deposits; however, total refundable deposits (including any pet deposit) can’t exceed 1.5 times the monthly rent. Assistance animals are exempt.
Are breed restrictions legal in Phoenix?
Yes, for pets. A 2024 proposal to ban them failed. Insurers also can’t base coverage solely on dog breed.
Are emotional support animals considered pets?
No. ESAs and service animals are not pets, and landlords cannot charge fees, deposits, or pet rent. Documentation may be requested if the need isn’t apparent.
What are typical pet charges in Phoenix?
Typical setups include $25–$50/month in pet rent, plus either a non-refundable fee or a refundable deposit, within the 1.5 times rent cap.
What if a tenant has an unauthorized pet?
Offer a pet addendum first. If they refuse, follow Arizona’s notice-and-cure process (10 days for most issues, five if health or safety is affected) before pursuing eviction.
Additional Resources:
Emerging Communities in Phoenix, AZ You Should Invest In
Understanding the Right to Quiet Enjoyment in Phoenix Rental Property
