What must a California pet policy include under SB 1296?
Quick answer
From April 1, 2027, a California pet policy or pet addendum must give a clear, plain-language description of the rights, responsibilities and requirements for tenants with pets, including any other material rules, conditions or restrictions (Civ. Code 1942.7.5(d)). Give applicants the version in effect when you hand out the application, and add a space on the application to acknowledge receipt.
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) |
| Content | A clear, plain-language description of the rights, responsibilities and requirements for tenant pet owners at the property, including any other material rules, conditions or restrictions on keeping a pet (1942.7.5(d)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Must be written | A landlord or agent shall have a pet policy or pet addendum in writing (1942.7.5(b)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Which version | Provide the established pet policy in effect when the rental application form is given; amendments apply to prospective tenants only (1942.7.5(e)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Acknowledgment line | The rental application must include a space for the applicant to acknowledge receipt (1942.7.5(g)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Pet | A "common household pet" as defined in Health and Safety Code 50466(b) (1942.7.5(a)(1)) | Cal. Civ. Code 1942.7.5 (SB 1296, Ch. 1025) |
| Mistakes | Giving the material terms is substantial compliance; a nonmaterial error or omission corrected on notice is not a violation (1942.7.5(f)) | 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 |
Can I change the pet policy later?
Yes, for prospective tenants only (1942.7.5(e)). Each applicant must get the policy in effect when the application form is provided, so keep dated versions.
Does the law list specific rules I must include?
No. It sets a standard, not a list: rights, responsibilities and requirements for tenants with pets, and any other material rules, conditions or restrictions (1942.7.5(d)). If you use rules such as limits on number, size or type of pet, or pet deposits or fees, those are the kind of material terms to write down.
What if I leave something out by mistake?
Providing the material terms counts as substantial compliance, and a nonmaterial error or omission that is corrected upon notice is not a violation (1942.7.5(f)).
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?
Where do I have to share it?
With every rental application, and by link on your property website and digital ads where possible (1942.7.5(b)).
Does a no-pets building need one?
Yes. A complete prohibition counts as a pet policy (1942.7.5(a)(3)).
When does this start?
April 1, 2027 (1942.7.5(m)).
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
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