Limits on the Number of Pets Allowed in Condominiums: Updated Regulations

Living in a Condo with Pets: Balancing Interests and Rights

Living in a condominium implies dealing with fragile balances when it comes to coexisting with neighbors.
Finding common ground is not easy in such a limited space, especially when it involves sensitive topics like pets.
Some residents have – or would like to have – a variety of pets such as dogs, cats, parrots, hamsters, and more.
On the other hand, some find the presence of multiple animals in the building intolerable.

Tolerance, education, and civic sense are not always enough to find a compromise, particularly when conflicting needs and personal preferences are at stake.
The law is not concerned with those merely annoyed by animals; it aims to safeguard the legitimate interests of all residents to live peacefully, without being disturbed by noise, odors, or disruptive waste.
Owners are required to apply common sense and consider both the well-being of their pets and the impact on their neighbors.

Restrictions and Regulations

While condo rules cannot ban pet ownership outright due to personal rights, there are exceptions to this.
One such exception pertains to dangerous animals that pose hygiene or health risks, as documented by a medical professional.
It’s essential to recognize dogs and cats as part of the family unit, as confirmed by multiple court decisions.

Condo regulations can limit the number of pets and establish rules for using common areas like gardens.
Violators may face fines ranging from 200 to 800 euros for repeated offenses.
Additionally, tenants should be aware that landlords can include clauses in rental contracts to prohibit pets, with penalties for non-compliance.

Legal Framework and Court Rulings

The law does not authorize condo bylaws to ban pets outright, except in specific circumstances.
There are no statutory limitations on the number of pets allowed in a private residence within a condominium.
However, the principle of normal tolerance levels must be respected to prevent disturbances for other residents.

Courts have addressed this issue frequently, setting guidelines for pet ownership limits.
For instance, a ruling by the Court of Cassation established a guideline of up to 6 pets (dogs and cats) as a reasonable limit to maintain tolerable living conditions.
Nonetheless, this number is indicative and subject to adjustments based on various factors such as available space, distances between units, animal types, and caretakers’ presence.

In conclusion, while there are no specific laws restricting pet ownership in condominiums, residents should always ensure responsible pet ownership, respect common areas, and avoid disturbing their neighbors’ peace.