Can My Landlord Ban Pets in Ontario?

OHI | Can My Landlord? · Ontario rental question

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Last verified: September 12, 2026

What does the RTA say?

Section 14 of the Residential Tenancies Act says a tenancy-agreement provision prohibiting animals in or around the residential complex is void. A landlord generally cannot rely only on a standard no-pets sentence in the lease to evict a tenant.

Can a landlord refuse an applicant because of a pet?

The rule voiding a lease clause is not the same as a general duty to approve every prospective tenant with an animal. Human-rights obligations may arise when the animal relates to a disability. Screening decisions should be made carefully and without discrimination.

When can a pet still create an eviction issue?

A landlord may apply to the LTB where the animal causes a serious problem recognized by the RTA—for example, substantial interference with reasonable enjoyment, serious allergic reaction, undue damage or dangerous conduct. The evidence and circumstances matter; the presence of the pet alone is not enough.

What about condominiums?

Condominium declarations, bylaws and rules may restrict the type, number or size of pets. Tenants in a condo generally must comply with valid condominium rules, so a pet that is permitted under the lease may still conflict with the condominium’s governing documents.

What should tenants do?

• Review condo rules before moving in.
• Keep the animal licensed and under control where required.
• Address noise, waste, damage or safety concerns promptly.
• Document disability-related accommodation needs when relevant.

What should landlords do?

• Avoid treating a void no-pets clause as an automatic eviction right.
• Document the actual behaviour or impact creating concern.
• Consider human-rights accommodation duties.
• Use the correct LTB process rather than removing the animal or tenant personally.

Read the full OHI guide

• Pets in Ontario Rentals: Landlord & Tenant Rules
• Ontario Standard Lease Guide
• Ontario Eviction Notices Explained

Frequently asked questions

Can a landlord charge a pet deposit?

A separate pet or damage deposit is generally not permitted. See OHI’s rental-deposits guide.

Does “no pets” apply to a service animal?

Disability-related animals can engage Ontario Human Rights Code accommodation duties. The analysis is fact-specific.

Official Ontario sources

• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
• Guide to Ontario’s standard lease
• LTB forms and instructions

General information only: This article concerns Ontario residential tenancies and is not legal advice. Some rentals are exempt from all or part of the RTA. Verify current rules with official Ontario sources or obtain advice from a licensed Ontario legal professional.