California’s New Rental Pet Policy Law: What Landlords and Tenants Should Know
Finding a rental home that welcomes your pet can take some work. “Pet friendly” might sound promising, but it doesn’t tell you whether your dog meets the property’s size restrictions or whether there are other conditions.
Starting April 1, 2027, California’s SB 1296 requires landlords and their agents to put rental pet policies in writing and share them with prospective tenants early in the application process. Clear information upfront can help renters avoid unnecessary application costs and help landlords find applicants whose needs fit the property.
What must be disclosed?
The written policy or pet addendum must explain the property’s rules in plain language, including the responsibilities of tenants with pets and any significant conditions or restrictions.
That includes properties that prohibit pets. If a landlord allows pets without any rules or conditions, the written policy must say so. For landlords preparing their disclosures, useful details include any applicable limits on the number, type, breed, or size of pets, along with requirements for cleanup, noise, and pet-related charges permitted by law.
Does this mean every rental must accept pets?
No. SB 1296 allows landlords to maintain lawful pet restrictions, including a no-pets policy. It also preserves existing rights and obligations involving service animals, emotional support animals, and other assistance animals. Those animals have separate legal protections that a standard pet policy cannot override
Where will renters find the policy?
Landlords and agents must provide a copy with every rental application. Electronic applications must include an electronic copy, and the application must have a place for applicants to acknowledge receiving it.
The policy must also be accessible through a link or another electronic method on the property’s website and in digital advertisements, as applicable. For third-party advertising sites and rental search engines, that requirement depends on whether the platform supports that access. Landlords do not have to create a website or advertise online.
When can an applicant request a refund?
If a landlord collects an application fee before properly disclosing the pet policy, and that missing information causes the applicant to become ineligible or decide against proceeding, the applicant may request an application-fee refund in writing.
The landlord or agent must provide the refund within seven business days after receiving the written notice. For renters, keeping a copy of the application, payment receipt, and communications is a practical step.
How can you prepare?
If you own a rental, review your written policy, advertising, and application materials before April 2027. Make sure they communicate the same rules. If you’re looking for a home with a pet, read the policy before paying an application fee and ask for written clarification when something is unclear.
You can review the full law on the California Legislature’s SB 1296 bill page.
At Holbrook Realty Group, we stay on top of new laws affecting landlords’ and tenants’ rights so you can understand what’s changing and prepare with confidence.
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