Colorado's rental market — particularly in Denver, Boulder, and the Front Range — has become one of the most competitive in the mountain west. As part of a broader push for tenant protections, Colorado enacted a meaningful cap on pet deposits.
Colorado's 2x Cap
Under Colorado HB 23-1099 and subsequent legislation, pet deposits are capped at 2x monthly rent for tenants with pets. This places Colorado among the minority of states with an explicit, meaningful ceiling on pet-related deposit charges.
Denver's Local Protections
Denver has enacted additional tenant protections beyond state law: just cause eviction requirements, enhanced notice requirements for rent increases, and expanded renter protection ordinances. Boulder has also pursued local tenant protection measures.
Colorado ESA Rights
Colorado ESA owners are protected by federal FHA requirements enforced by the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD). ESA owners cannot be charged:
- Any pet deposit (even within the 2x cap)
- Monthly pet rent
- Third-party screening fees
Filing in Colorado
- Colorado Civil Rights Division: ccrd.colorado.gov
- Colorado Legal Services: coloradolegalservices.org