Can an HOA Ban a Dog in Las Vegas?
If you’re moving into a neighborhood governed by a homeowners association (HOA) in Las Vegas, one important thing to keep in mind is that your HOA can restrict or even ban certain dogs — depending on the rules outlined in their bylaws. While Nevada doesn’t have a blanket state law that limits pet ownership in HOAs, these associations have broad authority to regulate what kinds of pets residents can have, especially when it comes to dogs.
HOAs Can Restrict Dogs by Breed, Size, and Number
Most HOAs in the Las Vegas area include some form of pet policy in their Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). These rules often specify how many dogs a household can have (commonly no more than two), set maximum weight limits (like 25 or 50 pounds), and prohibit certain breeds — particularly those considered “aggressive” like pit bulls, Rottweilers, or Dobermans. Even if your dog has a clean history, the restriction can still apply if the breed is named in the HOA’s rules.
It’s also common for HOAs to include nuisance clauses, which can be used to take action against dogs that bark excessively, are allowed to roam off-leash, or create messes that aren’t cleaned up. Violating these rules could result in fines, legal action, or even being required to remove the dog from the property in severe cases.
What About Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals?
There is an important exception: HOAs must comply with federal laws under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means they cannot enforce breed or size restrictions on a service animal — which is defined as a dog individually trained to perform tasks for someone with a disability. Emotional support animals (ESAs), which help alleviate symptoms of mental or emotional conditions, are also protected under the FHA, though they are not covered by the ADA.
To qualify for these protections, you typically need documentation from a licensed healthcare provider and must make a formal request for accommodation. While the HOA can ask for proof of need, they cannot demand details of your diagnosis or medical history, nor can they charge pet deposits or fees for legitimate service or support animals.
Before You Move In
If you’re considering buying or renting in a Las Vegas community with an HOA, always ask for a copy of the CC&Rs first — ideally before signing anything. That way, you can avoid surprise restrictions that could impact your living situation with your dog. And if you already live in an HOA-regulated neighborhood and believe your rights are being violated, you may want to consult with a housing attorney or file a complaint with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission.
