Italian Phrase
Si possono tenere animali nell'edificio?
Meaning
This question asks whether it is permitted to keep animals inside a building, such as an apartment block, office, or school. It is a polite, neutral way to inquire about pet policies.
When to use
Use this sentence when you are looking at a rental listing, signing a lease, or simply asking the building manager or landlord about the rules for pets.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sipossonotenereanimalinell'edificio?
Impersonal 'Si'
Used to make a general statement or ask a question without specifying a subject; equivalent to English 'one' or passive voice.
Potere (possono)
Third‑person plural present of 'potere', meaning 'can' or 'are allowed to'.
Infinitive after modal verb
When a modal verb like 'potere' is used, it is followed by an infinitive verb—in this case 'tenere'.
Contraction 'nell''
Combines the preposition 'in' with the definite article 'il' before a vowel, forming 'nell'' (in the).
🗨In Conversation
Buongiorno, vorrei sapere: si possono tenere animali nell'edificio?
Good morning, I’d like to know: are animals allowed in the building?
Sì, i cani di piccola taglia sono ammessi, ma è necessario registrare l'animale al condominio.
Yes, small dogs are allowed, but you must register the pet with the condominium.
✕Common Mistakes
Si può tenere animali nell'edificio?
Use 'possono' because 'animali' is plural; 'può' matches singular subjects.
Si possono tenere animali dentro l'edificio?
Avoid mixing 'dentro' with the article; use the contraction 'nell'' for 'in the'.
Si possono tenere animali al edificio?
The correct preposition is 'in' (nell'), not 'a' (al) for location inside a building.
↔Alternatives
È permesso tenere animali nell'edificio?
Is it permitted to keep animals in the building?
Gli animali sono ammessi nell'edificio?
Are animals admitted in the building?
Posso avere un animale domestico qui?
Can I have a pet here?
Cultural Tip
In many Italian cities, especially in older apartment blocks, there are strict condominium rules about pets. Even if the building allows animals, you may need to register the pet, pay a small fee, and respect quiet‑hours rules. Asking politely with the impersonal 'Si' shows respect for the collective decision of the residents.