Pets in Strata: What Owners and Tenants Need to Know in NSW

A practical guide for landlords, tenants and property managers navigating pet approvals in strata schemes.

For many households, a pet is part of everyday life. In strata properties, however, the position is not simply about whether someone wants a dog or cat in the home, it is also about by-laws, approval pathways, nuisance considerations and, in rental properties, landlord consent.

In New South Wales, the law has moved toward a more balanced approach. Owners’ corporations cannot impose pet bonds, pet fees or pet insurance requirements, and they cannot refuse pets simply because there is a general dislike of animals. Even so, residents still need to follow the correct process and ensure a pet does not cause unreasonable interference for others within the scheme.

Key points at a glance

• Pets are generally allowed in strata in NSW, unless they cause unreasonable interference.
•  An owners corporation cannot charge a pet bond, pet fee or require pet insurance.
• Tenants may need both strata approval and landlord consent, depending on the scheme and the lease.
• Registered bylaws should always be checked before a pet is introduced into the property.
• Assistance animals are treated differently and attract additional legal protections.

Are pets allowed in strata in NSW?

Yes — in general, pets are allowed in strata schemes in New South Wales. The position is no longer based on blanket bans. Instead, the focus is on whether the animal creates an unreasonable impact on others within the building.

That does not mean every pet can be introduced without any process. Some schemes still require written notice or committee approval under their by-laws, so the first step should always be to check the registered strata rules that apply to the property.

What owners and tenants should check first!

Before a pet is moved into a strata property, the by-laws should be reviewed carefully. Some schemes adopt model by-laws, while others have their own registered rules that address pets, common property, and behavioural expectations.

Where the property is tenanted, the lease also matters. A tenant may need landlord consent in addition to any strata approval process. These are separate requirements, and neither automatically replaces the other.

Can a strata scheme still refuse a pet?

A scheme may still raise concerns where there is evidence that a particular pet is likely to cause nuisance, safety issues, damage or disruption to other residents. The question is usually whether the refusal or condition is reasonable in the circumstances.

This means decisions should be based on genuine impacts, not broad assumptions about animal size, breed or preference alone. A practical, evidence-based approach is always the safest one.

Pet bonds, fees and insurance requirements

One of the clearest positions in NSW is that an owners corporation cannot require a pet bond, pet fee or insurance payment as a condition of keeping an animal on a lot. This is an important point for landlords, tenants, and committees alike, particularly where older practices or outdated advice are still in circulation.

Assistance animals

Assistance animals are treated differently from ordinary pets. They are afforded additional protections, and a building or landlord should approach these matters carefully and in a lawful manner. When an assistance animal is involved, it is important to distinguish it from a standard pet approval request and to handle the matter appropriately.

Practical tips for landlords and property managers

For landlords and managing agents, the best approach is to deal with pet requests proactively. Check the by-laws before advertising the property, keep approval records on file, and ensure tenants understand the expectations around common property, cleanliness, noise and supervision.

Most disputes arise not because a pet exists, but because the process was not followed or the day-to-day management of the animal has not been handled properly. Clear communication early usually prevents issues later.

Final word

Pets in strata are far more workable in NSW than they once were, but the process still requires careful handling. The right course is to check the by-laws, obtain any required approvals, ensure the lease position is clear, and keep a written record throughout.

For landlords, tenants and agents, a calm and practical approach protects everyone involved and supports better outcomes within the building community.

Need help navigating pets in a strata rental?

Our team can assist with understanding the approval pathway, reviewing the practical position for your property, and helping you communicate clearly with owners, tenants and strata representatives.

Source note: This article has been prepared as an original summary with reference to PICA Group guidance and NSW Government strata and rental guidance current as at 26 March 2026. General information only.