Washington DC has enacted a new law that prevents landlords from refusing tenants based on their dogs’ breed, size, or weight. This legislation, part of the Pets in Housing Amendment Act (or “Roscoe’s Law”), aims to eliminate barriers to pet ownership, a move welcomed by animal welfare organizations.
Previously, certain breeds like pit bulls, rottweilers, and dobermans faced restrictions, which landlords implemented to mitigate risks of aggressive behavior. However, advocates argue that breed bans unfairly punish responsible dog owners and that aggressive behavior stems more from owner management than specific breeds. They also highlight how high pet fees and restrictions can limit housing options for responsible pet owners.
The law, introduced by councilmember Robert White, also includes caps on pet-related fees, such as limiting pet security deposits to 15% of monthly rent and allowing a maximum pet rent of 1%. While these changes aim to support families keeping their pets, some concerns remain, particularly regarding whether the caps adequately cover potential damages.
From October 1, 2026, breed and weight restrictions will be fully prohibited in residential leases. However, immediate changes may not occur, as real estate listings still often indicate various pet restrictions.
