Los Angeles County Supervisors are planning to consider a pet-including housing ordinance with critical housing stability implications.
By The Pet Inclusive Housing Initiative
As Los Angeles braces for rising eviction pressure this winter and the potential loss of federal housing funds that could push thousands back into homelessness, county leaders are moving toward a decision that has major implications for housing stability in 2026.
In the first quarter of 2026, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors is expected to consider a pet-inclusive housing ordinance, following the 2025 release of a county feasibility study.
By evaluating ways to remove barriers for renters with pets, the study lays critical groundwork for a forthcoming 2026 ordinance to codify pet-inclusive housing policies, an effort championed by Supervisor Hilda Solis. The ordinance offers Los Angeles County an opportunity to lead with compassion and common sense, ensuring families can stay housed and remain intact while recognizing the needs of housing providers.
At a moment when more than 14,500 formerly homeless households are at risk of displacement, expanding housing access for renters who have pets is a critical part of the solution.
Pets are a major, overlooked factor of housing instability. Although most rentals claim to allow pets, restrictive breed and weight limits and excessive fees frequently force renters into impossible choices.
Los Angeles ranks among the worst major cities for pet-inclusive housing access, with just 64% of properties allowing pets, and only 5% without breed and weight restrictions.
Michelson Center for Public Policy is working with county leaders to ensure the ordinance reflects real-world housing providers’ concerns while providing pet-owning renters with options beyond losing their housing or surrendering their pets to LA’s already overcrowded shelters.
“Los Angeles County’s decision to explore pet-inclusive housing is an important step toward equity and housing stability. Supervisor Solis and County leaders are taking meaningful action by recognizing that pets are part of the family, and housing policies should reflect that reality. We are confident that with thoughtful collaboration, the County can develop a balanced approach that works for both renters and housing providers and creates a true win for everyone,” said Jennifer Naitaki, Policy Director, Michelson Center for Public Policy.
Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative
