Section 8 and Pets: What Are the Rules?

If you're a renter with a pet—or planning to get one—and you're using a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, you might be wondering: Are pets allowed in Section 8 housing? The answer isn’t black and white. While the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets the groundwork for the Section 8 program, the rules surrounding pets are often up to individual landlords. Let’s break down what you need to know about Section 8 and pet policies so you can keep your furry friend and your home.

Are Pets Allowed in Section 8 Housing?

1. It Depends on the Landlord

The most important thing to understand is that HUD does not prohibit pets in Section 8 housing, but landlords are allowed to set their own pet policies, unless the pet is a service animal or emotional support animal (ESA)—more on that below.

So, if you’re a Section 8 tenant:

• You can have pets if your landlord allows them.
• You must follow all pet-related lease terms, such as breed restrictions, weight limits, and additional pet deposits or monthly pet rent.
• You should always get pet permission in writing.

2. Service Animals Are Always Allowed

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords must allow service animals, even if they have a “no pets” policy. Service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities, are not considered pets, and landlords cannot charge pet fees for them.

3. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) Have Rights Too

Like service animals, emotional support animals are also protected under the FHA. While ESAs don’t need specific training, they must be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional as part of a treatment plan. If a Section 8 tenant has proper documentation, landlords must make a reasonable accommodation—again, even if the property has a no-pets policy.

Important: Landlords cannot charge pet fees or deposits for ESAs or service animals. However, you are responsible for any damage they cause.

Common Section 8 Pet Policy Misconceptions

"Section 8 says I can't have pets."

Not true. HUD doesn’t prohibit pets—it’s up to your landlord or housing authority.

"All Section 8 landlords must allow any pet."

Also false. Pet rules vary by landlord and property. The only exceptions are service animals and ESAs.

Tips for Section 8 Tenants with Pets

• Read your lease carefully: Look for pet clauses and restrictions.
• Communicate with your landlord: Don’t try to hide a pet.
• Keep documentation ready: Especially if you have an ESA or service animal.
• Be a responsible pet owner: Noise complaints, damage, or disturbances can jeopardize your housing.

While Section 8 doesn’t ban pets, your ability to have one depends on your landlord’s pet policy—unless your pet is a service animal or emotional support animal, in which case federal law offers protections. Always review your lease and communicate openly with your landlord to ensure a pet-friendly experience in your Section 8 housing.