My condominium wants to fine me for having a cat. Is it legal?

No. The condominium does not have the power to fine a resident for keeping a pet in their own unit. Condominium penalties (art. 70 implementing provisions of the civil code) apply only to violations of rules for common areas, not to lifestyle choices within private units. If you receive a fine for this, challenge it with the help of a lawyer.

My dog barks a lot. Can I have legal problems?

Yes. Excessive noise (continuous barking) can constitute a violation of neighbours' right to enjoyment of their property and potentially constitute the offence of disturbing public peace (art. 659 Criminal Code). Residents can go to court for an injunction and damages. Act first with a dog trainer.

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Pets in condominiums: rights and rules

Since 2012 (condominium reform, Law 220/2012) and confirmed by the Court of Cassation in 2021, the contractual condominium rules cannot prevent residents from keeping domestic animals in their own units. The prohibition is invalid even if approved by the assembly. Residents can however set rules for the use of common spaces.

Authority

Amministratore di condominio / ASL di competenza

Time

10 min

Updated

May 2026

What you need

✓Copy of the condominium rules (to check any clauses)
✓Any public liability insurance for potentially dangerous breeds

Step-by-step procedure

Check if the rules contain prohibitions: are they valid?

Condominium rules can be of two types: contractual (attached to the deed of purchase, signed by all residents) or assembly-approved (approved by the assembly). Assembly-approved rules can never prohibit animals in private units. Contractual rules can in theory contain prohibitions, but the Court of Cassation (ord. 972/2021) has clarified that even these tend to be invalid if they concern common domestic animals. If the prohibition is enforced against you, seek legal assistance.

Even the seller/developer cannot include valid clauses in deeds prohibiting animals: they are void.

Valid rules for common areas

The condominium can pass rules for common areas: obligation to use a lead and/or muzzle in the lift, corridors and courtyard; obligation to collect droppings; prohibition on leaving animals unattended in common areas; times for use of the condominium garden; cleaning of areas used by animals. These rules are legitimate if not excessive or discriminatory. If challenged, the judge assesses their reasonableness.

Owner responsibilities and disputes

The owner is civilly liable for damage caused by the animal (art. 2052 civil code: strict liability). If your dog bites a fellow resident, you are liable even without fault. Take out public liability insurance for animals (included in many home insurance policies). In the event of disputes (barking, allergies, smells), the typical path is: condominium mediation → condominium assembly → mandatory civil mediation → court. Before going to court, always seek an agreement.

For potentially dangerous breeds (Pitbull, Rottweiler, Dobermann, etc.) the law mandates: microchip, muzzle and lead in public places, public liability insurance, owner's certificate.

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Ministero della Salute — Benessere animali

Ministero della Salute

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Frequently asked questions

Responsible authority

Authority

Amministratore di condominio / ASL di competenza

Phone

Certified email

Website

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The information in this guide is for orientation only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify on the official portal of the responsible authority.