Pet deposit

A pet deposit is money a landlord collects to cover damage a pet might cause. Maryland defines a security deposit as any payment of money given to a landlord to protect against nonpayment of rent, damage due to breach of lease, or damage to the home, appliances and furnishings. A pet deposit fits that definition, so it counts toward the cap.

As of October 2026, the cap is 1 month's rent per dwelling unit. A landlord who collects more can owe the tenant up to three times the extra amount plus attorney's fees. Do not add a separate pet deposit on top of a full security deposit. Monthly pet rent is a different kind of charge, not a deposit.

Animals that help a person with a disability follow different rules; see assistance animal. For ordinary pets, a good screening process and a written pet policy lower the risk. Read about our pet screening process.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change; check the linked official source or talk to a Maryland attorney.