Pet Policy for Council Tenants

Why have we created a Pet Policy for Council Tenant?

Keeping pets was previously included in the Estate Management Policy, which is now out of date and needs updating.

Since the Estate Management Policy was last reviewed, there have been changes in law and in how housing services are delivered. Feedback identified that the size and complexity of the existing policy reduced its clarity and ease of use.

To improve understanding, we have separated the Estate Management Policy and created two new standalone policies:

• Permissions Policy
• Pet Policy for Council Tenants

Changes in housing law

The Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 introduces enhanced rights for tenants in relation to keeping pets. It gives Scottish secure tenants the right to keep a pet with the landlord’s written permission, which must not be unreasonably withheld.

What is the purpose of the Pet Policy for Council Tenants?

The Pet Policy for Council Tenants provides a clear framework for managing pets within council housing.

The policy:

• establishes a consistent and transparent approach to granting permission;
• defines what is a pet and identifies animals that are not allowed;
• clarifies when permission is needed and when it is not (e.g. small pets kept in limited numbers);
• sets out how applications will be assessed, including consideration of property type, pet suitability, and tenant history;
• outlines expectations for responsible pet ownership; and
• confirms that decisions will be made within one month and will not be unreasonably withheld.

It reflects changes in legislation, operational practice, good practice and regulatory requirements. The policy also sets out clearer standards, defined roles and responsibilities, and support more consistent, high quality services.