🐾 Tennessee Pet & ESA Laws for Landlords
Complete guide to pet policies, ESA requirements, and Fair Housing compliance for Tennessee rental properties
📋 Updated for • FCRA CompliantTennessee landlords must navigate state deposit regulations alongside federal Fair Housing requirements when establishing pet policies. This comprehensive guide covers pet deposits, ESA accommodations, service animals, and enforceable pet policies for Tennessee.
Tennessee has no statutory cap on security deposits, giving landlords full flexibility. ESAs and service animals cannot be charged any deposit or fee under federal Fair Housing Act.
💰 Tennessee Pet Deposit Laws & Fees
| Charge Type | Refundable? | Limit | Typical |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🐕 Pet Deposit | Yes | No State Limit | $200-$400 |
| 💵 Pet Fee | No | No limit | $150-$350 |
| 📅 Pet Rent | No | No limit | $25-$50/mo |
| 🦮 ESA Fee | N/A | ❌ Prohibited | $0 |
| 🐕🦺 Service Animal | N/A | ❌ Prohibited | $0 |
📊 Market Analysis
Average Pet Deposits by Tennessee Metro
Average pet deposits in Tennessee
Return within 30 Days after lease termination with itemized deductions.
🌿 Tennessee-Specific Considerations
- Nashville Growth: Booming rental market with high pet ownership rates
- Music Row: Address noise policies for pets in entertainment districts
- Tornado Season: Address pet safety during severe weather
- Hunting Dogs: Strong hunting traditions—address sporting dogs
- Hot Summers: Address pet heat safety provisions
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Verify rental history, evictions, and background before approving any pet.
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Federal Fair Housing Act governs ESA accommodations in Tennessee.
✅ CAN Request:
- Letter from licensed healthcare provider
- Verification of disability-related need
- Provider license info
- Statement of therapeutic benefit
❌ CANNOT Request:
- Specific medical diagnosis
- Medical records
- Proof of training
- ESA “registration”
- Any deposits or fees
🐕 Service Animals vs. ESAs
| Feature | 🦮 Service Animal | 🐾 ESA |
|---|---|---|
| Law | ADA + FHA | FHA only |
| Training | Task-trained | None required |
| Types | Dogs (+ mini horses) | Any animal |
| Docs | Cannot require | Can request letter |
| Access | Public + housing | Housing only |
| Fees | ❌ Prohibited | ❌ Prohibited |
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Learn How💼 Liability & Insurance
Tennessee Dog Bite Claims
Insurance data for Tennessee
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🔗 Related Resources
📚 Legal Citations
- Deposit Law: TCA § 66-28-301
- Fair Housing Act: 42 U.S.C. § 3604
- ADA: 42 U.S.C. § 12101
- HUD Guidance: FHEO Notice 2020-01
For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Tennessee laws subject to change. Consult a qualified attorney.
