Understanding & Enforcing Pet Bylaws in BC Strata Corporations
It’s common for BC strata corporations to restrict—or completely prohibit— pets. Whether those bylaws are enforceable depends on their wording, how they are applied and the legislative framework that governs stratas. Below is a plain-language guide for owners, tenants, occupants and council members.
Key Powers & Limits
- Contractual force. Bylaws bind all owners, tenants and occupants. Breaches can trigger fines or other sanctions.
- Scope of restrictions. A bylaw may ban pets, cap their number, limit species or size, impose leashing rules, or require registration.
- Legal tests. Validity turns on the power granted by the Strata Property Act, any statutory limits on that power, and overall reasonableness.
- Human-rights duties. Certified guide or service dogs, and bona-fide assistance animals for disabilities, cannot be barred.
- Grandfathering. Under s. 123 of the Act, an existing pet may stay after a new “no-pet” bylaw passes, so long as it continues to live with the same resident.
Typical Bylaw Tools
- Complete prohibition on pets
- Numeric limits (e.g. one dog + one cat per unit)
- Weight or breed limits (e.g. no dogs over 20 kg)
- Mandatory leashing in common areas
- Registration and proof-of-vaccination requirements
Note — Fish and similar aquarium animals are often excluded from “pet” definitions, so related bylaws may not apply.
Enforcement Considerations
- Bylaws must be applied consistently, reasonably and without oppression.
- Strata councils should tread carefully when disability accommodation is claimed. Improper enforcement may breach human-rights legislation.
- Fines must comply with the Act and the strata’s own bylaws (e.g. frequency caps on re-imposing fines).
If you believe a pet bylaw is being enforced unfairly—or you need clarity on accommodation requests—seek qualified legal advice.
Not Legal Advice – This content is provided for general information only and should not be relied on as legal counsel. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.
