For a long time in Ontario, there was controversy over pets in residential rental units, particularly apartments. However, with the enactment of the Residential Tenancies Act in 2006, the legislature finally put the debate to an end. Now the “no pet” provisions are void in rental housing agreements and cannot be enforced.
However, this doesn’t mean that pet owners get a free pass. A landlord can still bring an application to terminate the tenancy if an animal causes substantial interference or allergic reactions to others in the building. Further, a landlord can terminate a lease if an animal is inherently dangerous.
Beyond the three causes above, tenants must observe other laws and regulations governing animal or pet ownership. Perhaps the most important ones are the municipal by-laws mandating licence for pet owners. For example, in Toronto all cats and dogs must be licensed. (Click here to find out more.) Owners may be fined if they lack the necessary papers for their pets.
Therefore, the voiding of “no pet” provisions is by no means a free pass for pet owners. And if you keep a Siberian tiger in your apartment, you will probably get evicted.
Photo (c) City of Toronto, used for news reporting purposes.
