Can a Massachusetts landlord charge a pet deposit or upfront pet fee?
For Massachusetts residential rentals, under the Attorney General fee regulation (940 CMR 38.00, since September 2, 2025) and M.G.L. c. 186, s. 15B.
Last reviewed November 1, 2026 against 940 CMR 38.00 and M.G.L. c. 186, s. 15B and the sources below · How we check facts
No
A Massachusetts landlord may not charge this.
What the law says
Banned as an upfront charge. A separate pet deposit or pet fee is not one of the four allowed upfront charges.
What to do instead
Remove it from applications, leases and move-in checklists. If the cost matters, build it into the rent and keep the advertised Total Price accurate. Renaming a charge does not change what it pays for.
For renters
If a Massachusetts landlord asks you for a pet deposit or upfront pet fee, ask in writing for it to be removed or refunded. You can also file a complaint with the Attorney General's Office. Massachusetts renter guide.
Check every fee at once and get the price to advertise: Total Price calculator.
Other Massachusetts fees
Amenity fee · Application fee · Broker fee · Cleaning fee · Fee that was not disclosed · Holding or reservation fee · Last month's rent · Late fee · Lock change fee · Move-in or administrative fee · Optional fee · Parking fee · Payment processing fee · Pet rent · Security deposit · Trash fee · Utility charge
Frequently asked questions
Can a Massachusetts landlord charge a pet deposit or upfront pet fee?
No. Banned as an upfront charge. A separate pet deposit or pet fee is not one of the four allowed upfront charges.
What if I already paid a pet deposit or upfront pet fee?
Ask the landlord in writing for a refund and keep a copy. If that does not work, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office or ask a legal aid program for help.
Related
Not legal advice. Confirm your lease with a Massachusetts attorney.