§ 29-35. Keeping of household pets by elderly or disabled tenants.

(a) Definitions. In this Section, the following words have the meanings indicated.

(1) Disabled means a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, or a person who has a record of such an impairment or is regarded as having such an impairment.

(2) Elderly means at least 60 years old.

(b) Prohibition. A landlord must not prevent or attempt to prevent an elderly or disabled tenant from keeping a household pet unless at the time occupancy begins the landlord gives the tenant a written lease that specifically prohibits the tenant from keeping a household pet.

(c) Liability. A tenant is liable for damage that the tenant's household pet does to the premises.

(d) Rules.

(1) A landlord may make reasonable rules governing the type, size, and number of pets allowed, disposal of pet waste, and aspects of pet conduct and pet control related to protection of the health, comfort, and safety of other tenants and the property of the landlord.

(2) Even if a landlord has not prohibited household pets under subsection (b), a landlord may require a tenant to remove a household pet from the premises if:

(A) The landlord gives the tenant written warning of a violation of rules made under this subsection; and

(B) The tenant does not correct the violation within 7 days after the landlord gives the warning.

(3) The Executive may issue a regulation under method (3) to specify what are reasonable rules under this subsection. (1987 L.M.C., ch. 5, § 1; 2000 L.M.C., ch. 32, § 1.)

Editor's note—Section 29-35, formerly § 29-30E, was renumbered, amended, and retitled pursuant to 2000 L.M.C., ch. 32, § 1.