California has some of the highest rents in the country, and pet rent often rides on top. This guide explains how pet rent works in California's rental markets, the state's specific ESA rule (AB 468), and when an approved emotional support animal may not be charged pet-specific fees.
Pet rent in California's rental markets
Across high-cost California metros — Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, and Sacramento — many properties charge monthly pet rent on top of an already high base rent, sometimes per pet, and often alongside a one-time pet deposit or non-refundable pet fee. Over a multi-year lease, the monthly portion is usually the largest pet-related cost.
Because California rents are high, the dollar impact of pet rent tends to be larger here than in lower-cost states — which is exactly why it is worth estimating before you sign.
California's ESA rule: AB 468 and housing protections
California adds its own requirements on top of the federal Fair Housing Act. Under AB 468, a provider must have an established client-provider relationship of at least 30 days before issuing an ESA letter, and the letter must come from a mental health professional licensed in California. The law is designed to ensure letters reflect a genuine evaluation rather than an instant online purchase.
California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) also protects assistance animals in housing. When a reasonable-accommodation request is approved, an approved emotional support animal is generally not charged pet rent, a pet deposit, or pet fees — but each request is reviewed individually, and a letter does not guarantee approval or a fee waiver.