Pet-Friendly Rentals in Calgary

Yes. Unlike Ontario, where landlords cannot enforce no-pet clauses, Alberta landlords can legally ban pets from their rental properties. This is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of Alberta tenancy law.

If your lease includes a no-pet clause and you bring a pet into the unit without permission, the landlord can treat this as a breach of the lease and issue a 14-day notice to remedy. If you do not remove the pet within that period, the landlord can proceed with eviction through the RTDRS or Provincial Court.

On the other hand, if a building or unit is listed as pet-friendly, the landlord must allow all tenants in that building to have pets. They cannot selectively permit pets for some tenants and deny others without a legitimate reason.

The bottom line: always confirm the pet policy in writing before signing a lease. If the listing says "pet-friendly," get it confirmed in the lease itself.

Alberta law allows landlords to charge for pets, but the rules around deposits and fees are different:

• Pet deposit (refundable): A landlord can charge a refundable pet deposit, but the total of the security deposit plus the pet deposit cannot exceed one month's rent. This is the combined maximum under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Non-refundable pet fee: Alberta does allow non-refundable pet fees. These are separate from the security deposit and are not subject to the same cap. A typical non-refundable pet fee ranges from $200 to $500.
• Monthly pet rent: Some landlords charge an additional $25 to $75/month as "pet rent." This is legal in Alberta and is simply added to your monthly obligation.

Make sure you understand exactly what you are paying and whether it is refundable or not. Get the details in writing as part of your lease or as a separate pet addendum.

For the refundable pet deposit portion, the landlord must follow the same rules as the security deposit: hold it in trust, pay applicable interest (0% for 2026), and return it within 10 days of tenancy end minus any legitimate deductions for pet damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Service animals are treated completely differently from pets under Alberta law. Two key pieces of legislation apply:

• Service Dogs Act: Protects individuals who require a service dog for a disability. Landlords cannot deny housing, charge pet deposits, or impose pet fees for qualified service dogs.
• Blind Persons' Rights Act: Specifically protects individuals with guide dogs. The same protections apply -- no bans, no deposits, no fees.

Beyond these specific statutes, the Alberta Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on disability. If you require an emotional support animal or other assistance animal due to a disability, you may be protected under human rights legislation even if the animal does not meet the strict definition of a "service dog."

If a landlord refuses to accommodate your service animal, you can file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission. Landlords who violate these protections face significant penalties.

Even in pet-friendly buildings, landlords in Alberta can impose restrictions on:

• Breed: Certain breeds (commonly Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and other breeds perceived as aggressive) may be restricted. This is legal in Alberta.
• Size: Weight limits (e.g., "pets under 25 lbs only") are common, especially in condo buildings where the condo board sets the rules.
• Number: Most landlords limit the number of pets allowed per unit, typically one or two.
• Type: Some buildings allow cats but not dogs, or vice versa. Exotic pets are almost always excluded.

These restrictions must be stated in the lease or in the building's rules. If you have a breed or size of dog that is commonly restricted, be upfront about it from the start. Provide information about your pet's temperament, vaccination records, and any training certificates. A well-documented pet application goes a long way.

Note that breed restrictions do not apply to service animals. A landlord cannot deny a service dog based on breed or size.

Finding a pet-friendly place takes a bit more effort, but Calgary has a reasonable supply of options. Here is how to search effectively:

• Filter for pet-friendly: Most rental platforms, including SQRFT, allow you to filter listings by pet policy. Start here to avoid wasting time on no-pet buildings.
• Target purpose-built rentals: Large rental buildings managed by professional property management companies are more likely to have pet-friendly policies than individual condo owners.
• Consider townhomes and duplexes: Ground-level units with direct outdoor access are often more accommodating for dogs.
• Look at newer buildings: Many new purpose-built rentals in Calgary have been designed with pet-friendly amenities like dog wash stations and nearby green spaces.

When contacting landlords, disclose your pet upfront. Mention the breed, size, age, and whether the pet has any training or certifications. Offering a pet resume (yes, this is a real thing) with vaccination records, a reference from your current or previous landlord, and photos can help your application.

If you are renting with a pet, expect some landlords to be cautious. Here is how to make your application stand out:

• Create a pet resume: Include your pet's name, breed, age, weight, temperament, vaccination records, spay/neuter status, and any training certifications.
• Provide a pet reference: A letter from a previous landlord confirming your pet did not cause damage is extremely valuable.
• Offer to pay a pet deposit or fee upfront: This shows you are taking financial responsibility for your pet.
• Carry pet liability insurance: Some tenant insurance policies include pet liability coverage. Mentioning this can ease a landlord's concerns.
• Be honest: Do not try to sneak a pet in or misrepresent your pet's breed or size. If the landlord discovers the deception, it is grounds for a breach notice.

With vacancy rates at 5.7% in Calgary, you have more negotiating power than in recent years. If a landlord is on the fence about your pet, a strong application with documentation can tip the balance in your favor.

Once you are in, being a responsible pet tenant protects your deposit and your tenancy:

• Prevent damage: Use scratch guards on doors, keep litter boxes clean, and address any chewing or scratching behavior early.
• Control noise: Excessive barking or noise complaints can lead to a breach notice. If your dog has separation anxiety, invest in training before it becomes a lease issue.
• Clean up after your pet: Always pick up after your dog in common areas and outdoor spaces. This is a courtesy to neighbors and a requirement in most buildings.
• Follow building rules: Leash policies in common areas, designated pet relief areas, and elevator etiquette are common in multi-unit buildings.
• Report damage promptly: If your pet causes damage to the unit, report it to the landlord right away. It is better to address it collaboratively than to have it discovered during the move-out inspection.

Remember, your behavior as a pet-owning tenant influences whether future tenants with pets are welcome. Good pet tenants make it easier for the next renter with a pet.