Does Section 8 Allow Pets?

The Section 8 housing program, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), provides rental assistance to low-income families and individuals. As part of this assistance, HUD has established certain rules and regulations regarding pets in Section 8 housing.

Pets and Section 8 Housing

In general, HUD allows pets in Section 8 housing, but there are some restrictions and limitations.

1. Pet Policy: Each Section 8 housing authority has its own pet policy, which may vary from property to property. The pet policy will typically specify the types of pets that are allowed, the number of pets allowed per household, and any restrictions on the size, weight, or breed of pets.

2. Reasonable Accommodation: HUD requires public housing authorities (PHAs) to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities who need pets as service animals or emotional support animals. Service animals are defined as animals that are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. Emotional support animals are animals that provide comfort and emotional support to individuals with disabilities.

3. Pet Deposit and Fees: PHAs may charge pet deposits and fees to cover the costs of cleaning and repairs associated with pets. These fees are typically non-refundable.

Pet Restrictions

Some PHAs may have additional restrictions on pets, such as:

1. Breed Restrictions: Some PHAs may prohibit certain breeds of dogs, such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman pinschers, due to their potential for aggressive behavior.

2. Size and Weight Restrictions: Some PHAs may have size and weight restrictions for pets. For example, a PHA may limit the weight of a dog to 25 pounds or the height of a cat to 12 inches.

3. Number of Pets: Some PHAs may limit the number of pets allowed per household. For example, a PHA may allow a maximum of two pets per household.

Responsibilities of Pet Owners

Pet owners in Section 8 housing are responsible for:

1. Keeping Their Pets Well-Behaved: Pet owners must keep their pets well-behaved and under control at all times. This means that pets must not be noisy, aggressive, or destructive.

2. Cleaning Up After Their Pets: Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets, both inside and outside of their homes. This includes picking up pet waste, sweeping or vacuuming pet hair, and wiping up pet urine or vomit.

3. Keeping Their Pets Vaccinated: Pet owners are responsible for keeping their pets vaccinated against rabies and other diseases.

4. Obeying the Pet Policy: Pet owners must obey the pet policy of their PHA, including any restrictions on the types, number, and size of pets allowed.

Conclusion

Section 8 housing allows pets, but there are some restrictions and limitations. Pet owners in Section 8 housing are responsible for keeping their pets well-behaved, cleaning up after their pets, keeping their pets vaccinated, and obeying the pet policy of their PHA.