Ontario law voids no-pet clauses in rental agreements. Landlords cannot evict a tenant for owning a pet unless the condo declaration prohibits it or the animal causes damage or disturbance. Many tenants and landlords do not know this.
For Tenants: How to Find a Pet-Friendly Unit
While no-pet clauses are void, landlords can still refuse to rent to you. Declaring pets upfront is risky. Many successful pet-owning tenants do not disclose pets during the application. Once the lease is signed, Ontario law protects them.
Focus on buildings and neighbourhoods where pets are already common:
- Centretown and the Glebe: Most mid-rise and walk-up buildings accept pets. Dog parks are walkable.
- Westboro and Hintonburg: Pet-friendly culture with the river pathway nearby.
- Kanata and Orleans: Suburban homes with yards. Landlords of single-family homes are more pet-friendly than condo landlords.
For Landlords
Banning pets in a standard lease is unenforceable. You have two paths:
- Screen tenants as people: A responsible tenant with a dog causes fewer problems than a bad tenant without one.
- Pet addendum: While no-pet clauses are void, you can require the tenant to clean up after the pet and cover any damage. Put this in writing.
If a tenant’s pet damages the unit, you pursue compensation through the LTB, same as any other damage claim.
Condo Restrictions
Condominium declarations can legally prohibit pets. If the condo corporation ban is in the declaration, the tenant cannot keep a pet regardless of RTA protections. Check the condo rules before listing or applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a landlord evict me for having a dog?
No — unless the dog causes damage, excessive noise, is dangerous, or the condo declaration bans pets.
Should I tell a landlord I have a pet when applying?
Legal protection exists once the lease is signed. Disclosing during application may hurt your chances. Most tenant advocates recommend silence.
Can a landlord charge a pet deposit?
No. Ontario bans pet deposits. The only legal deposits are first and last month’s rent.