Governments across the world expand legal frameworks for pets

Regulators worldwide are tightening animal welfare standards while advancing pet-inclusive policies across housing and public spaces, from tenancy reform and breeding oversight to pet-friendly dining rules. GlobalPETS analyzes the latest developments.

Rental laws

UK

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, effective 1 May 2026, landlords will no longer be able to automatically reject a tenant’s request to keep a pet.

From that date, refusals must be reasonable, and tenants can challenge them through the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman – an independent service responsible for the final decision on disputes between residents and landlords – or the courts.

Landlords are also required to assess requests on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific property and tenancy circumstances.

New Zealand

From 1 December 2025, landlords in New Zealand may decline a pet request only on reasonable grounds, following the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s approval of new rules under the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act.

Unlike the UK framework, landlords can charge up to 2 weeks’ rent as a separate pet bond for new tenancies or when a new pet is added. Disability assistance dogs can’t be refused and are exempt from pet bonds. Additionally, tenants remain liable for pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear.

Tasmania, Australia

In the Australian state, the Residential Tenancy Amendment (Pets) Act 2025, passed on 27 November 2025, allows renters to apply to keep pets, with guide dogs exempt from the application process.

According to the act, landlords can object only on prescribed grounds, and the final decision rests with the Tribunal. These grounds include risks of nuisance, property damage beyond reasonable wear and tear or unacceptable safety or welfare risks to people or animals.

Animal welfare laws

Taiwan

On 8 January 2026, Taiwan’s Executive Yuan passed a draft amendment to the Animal Protection Act aimed at strengthening pet owners’ responsibility, improving animal shelter management, refining oversight of the pet industry and empowering animal protection inspectors. The draft was sent to the Legislative Yuan for review.

Efforts to strengthen animal welfare have also been supported by a bonus scheme introduced in June 2025 for public veterinarians engaged in animal protection work.

Maldives

On 19 November 2025, the Maldives ratified the Animal Welfare Act number 23/2025, establishing a legal framework for the keeping, breeding and trading of animals in the country. The law came into force 90 days after its publication.

Comprising 11 chapters, the Act sets standards for animal health, outlines protocols for preventing zoonotic diseases and regulates the import, export and transport of animals, along with other related provisions.

Pet-friendly dining

South Korea

On 2 January 2026, South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) revised and promulgated the Enforcement Rule of the Food Sanitation Act, establishing facility and hygiene requirements for restaurants that allow cats and dogs.

Effective 1 March 2026, the amendment permits general restaurants, snack bars and bakeries to operate as pet-friendly establishments, provided they meet the prescribed standards.

Under the law, operators must install partitions, fences or similar barriers to prevent pets from entering food preparation and storage areas. It also outlines operational requirements, including rules for pet owners and hygiene and safety protocols for operators. Violations may result in fines or business suspension.