Tasmania’s New Pet Rules for Rentals: What Landlords Need to Know for 2026

Tasmania has officially joined other states in modernising its rental laws, with pet-friendly reforms now passed through parliament. The changes are designed to give tenants fairer access to housing while still protecting landlords and their properties. The new rules will come into effect in early 2026, giving owners time to adjust before they apply.

Under the updated legislation, tenants who want to have a pet must notify their landlord and provide details about the animal. Once the request is received, property owners have two weeks to respond. If no response is given within that timeframe, the request is automatically approved.

If a landlord decides to refuse the request, they must provide a written explanation and submit their reasoning to the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for review. Decisions can only be based on reasonable concerns, such as potential nuisance issues, property damage that goes beyond normal wear, or safety risks for people or other animals. Owners can directly refuse pets classified as dangerous dogs by local councils.

The legislation also makes clear that assistance animals are not considered pets and cannot be refused. In strata and body corporate settings, existing by-laws still apply, meaning complexes with their own pet restrictions are not overridden by the new rules.

Another important shift is that rental listings can no longer include blanket no-pets conditions. While landlords can still choose among applicants, they cannot automatically rule someone out simply because they intend to apply for a pet under the new process.

These reforms bring Tasmania in line with most mainland states and aim to reduce the pressure renters face when trying to secure a home for themselves and their animals. They also help prevent situations where pets are surrendered because families are unable to take them into a new property.

The government will be providing education and guidance before the changes roll out. In the meantime, landlords who understand how the process works will be well prepared to make informed decisions and maintain positive tenancies.

If you would like support navigating these new requirements, including pet applications and compliance, our team is here to help.

Contact us at leasing@clubpropertymanagement.com.au for guidance tailored to your property.

Source: Premier of Tasmania and ABC News