Pets in NSW Rentals & Strata: What You Need to Know
Thinking of renting with a pet or buying in a strata building? Understanding the rules around consent, approvals and responsible pet ownership can make the process much easier.
Pets are an important part of many households, but the rules can become confusing when renting or living in a strata property. In NSW, rental properties and strata schemes have different approval processes, and sometimes both apply. Here's a simple breakdown of what to know before bringing a pet home.
If you're renting in a strata building, you may need both your landlord's consent and approval from the owners corporation, depending on the by-laws.
Do you need your landlord's consent?
Yes. Under the NSW rental laws that commenced on 19 May 2025, tenants generally need their landlord's consent to keep a pet. However, landlords can only refuse a request for certain legally permitted reasons.
Use the NSW Fair Trading standard pet application form and provide the required details about the animal you wish to keep.
Your landlord must respond in writing within 21 days of receiving the completed application.
Keep a copy of the application, response and any reasonable conditions attached to the approval.
If the landlord does not respond to a properly submitted pet application within 21 days, consent is automatically granted without additional conditions. This is the rental approval rule; any separate strata requirements must still be followed.
Can a landlord say no?
A landlord cannot simply refuse a pet because they would prefer the property to remain pet-free.
Any refusal must rely on one of the grounds permitted under NSW law, and the landlord must explain the reason in writing.
✓ A property unsuitable for that animal
✓ Inadequate fencing or space where relevant
✓ A conflict with applicable council or other laws
✓ Other specific grounds allowed by NSW legislation
Approval may come with conditions
Landlords may attach reasonable conditions that are permitted by NSW tenancy law. These should relate to the animal and the circumstances of the property, rather than creating unnecessary restrictions or additional financial barriers.
An example may be requiring professional carpet cleaning at the end of a tenancy where the pet is kept indoors and the condition is permitted by the legislation.
A landlord cannot require extra rent, an increased rental bond or additional financial security simply because the tenant has a pet.
Different rules apply to assistance animals
Tenants do not need landlord consent to keep a legally recognised assistance animal. Strata by-laws also cannot prohibit assistance animals or prevent them from performing their duties. Assistance animals are treated differently from ordinary household pets.
What if you live in an apartment or townhouse?
Strata properties have by-laws that apply to residents, including owners and tenants. While blanket bans on pets are not valid, strata schemes can have rules about keeping animals and may require an application or written notification.
In NSW, an owners corporation cannot prohibit a pet unless it causes unreasonable interference with another resident's use and enjoyment of their lot or the common property. Restrictions must comply with the legislation, rather than being based simply on a general dislike of pets.
When can a pet become a problem?
NSW strata laws identify circumstances where an animal may cause unreasonable interference. These include:
✓ Repeated chasing or threatening behaviour
✓ Attacks on residents or other animals
✓ Certain health risks
✓ Persistent unpleasant odours
Other circumstances are also specified by law, including certain dangerous, menacing or restricted dogs.
You may need two approvals
If you're renting a strata property, landlord consent does not automatically replace any approval required by the strata scheme.
Apply using the NSW Fair Trading pet application form. The landlord has 21 days to respond.
Check the registered by-laws to see whether a separate pet application or notification is required.
Rental Rules vs Strata Rules
| Requirement | Rental Property | Strata Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Who considers the request? | Landlord or agent | Owners corporation, if required |
| Application | Standard NSW pet form | As specified in by-laws |
| Response timeframe | 21 days | Reasonable timeframe |
| Refusal | Only permitted statutory grounds | Unreasonable interference test |
| Assistance animals | Landlord consent not required | Cannot be prohibited |
Before bringing a pet home
□ Review council and animal rules
□ Complete the rental pet form
□ Keep a copy of your application
□ Record the date it was submitted
□ Check strata by-laws if applicable
□ Obtain strata approval if required
□ Keep all written correspondence
□ Follow responsible pet ownership rules
Check the latest requirements
Pet and strata requirements can change. For application forms, current rules and further information, refer to NSW Government guidance.
A little preparation makes the process easier.
Whether you're a tenant applying to keep a pet, a landlord responding to a request or a buyer considering a strata property, understanding the rules early can help avoid confusion. Check the requirements, follow the correct process and keep a clear record of any approvals and conditions.
Questions about renting or buying in NSW?
Whether you're looking for your next rental, considering a strata property or managing an investment, the Brand Property team is here to help you navigate the property process.
Contact Brand Property