Does a California no-pets rental need a written pet policy?
Quick answer
Yes. From April 1, 2027, Civil Code 1942.7.5 counts a complete ban on pets as a pet policy, so it must be in writing, linked from your property website and digital ads where possible, and given with every rental application. If you set no pet rules at all, the written policy must say so. The law does not make you allow pets.
What does the law say? Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Start date | Operative April 1, 2027 (1942.7.5(m)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| No-pets counts | "Pet policy" shall also include policies that completely prohibit pets (1942.7.5(a)(3)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| No rules at all | If the landlord places no rules or conditions on pets, the policy must include a statement saying so (1942.7.5(a)(3)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Where to share it | Link on the property website, in digital ads you control and, where permitted, third-party ads and rental search engines; written copy with every rental application (1942.7.5(b)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Acknowledgment | The rental application must include a space to acknowledge receipt of the pet policy (1942.7.5(g)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| No duty to allow pets | The section does not require allowing pets, creating a website, or advertising in any particular medium (1942.7.5(j)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Penalty | The section sets no civil fine. Its stated remedy is the application-fee refund in 1942.7.5(h); other California laws may apply depending on the facts | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Last verified | October 30, 2026 | Astor Ventures |
What should a no-pets policy say?
The text only requires a written policy with a clear, plain-language description of the rules for keeping pets (1942.7.5(d)). For a ban, that means saying plainly that pets are not allowed and listing any other material conditions.
Can I still refuse pets?
Yes. Landlords may deny or restrict pets based on the written policy, lease terms, health or safety, property conditions, insurance or business reasons, consistent with other law (1942.7.5(l)).
Do service and support animals fall under a no-pets policy?
The section does not alter any right or duty for service, support or other assistance animals (1942.7.5(k)). A no-pets policy does not override those rules.
Want it done in an afternoon? The California rental pet policy disclosure kit gives you a written pet policy template, the application acknowledgment line, a listing checklist and a refund log, with the official text quoted. One-time payment of $49, instant download.
What else do people ask?
Do I need a website just for this?
No (1942.7.5(j)). If you have one, it must link to the policy.
When does this start?
April 1, 2027 (1942.7.5(m)).
What if I forget to include it with an application?
If you charged an application fee and the applicant is then ineligible or withdraws because of it, you must refund the fee within seven business days of a written request (1942.7.5(h)).
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
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