How much can my landlord legally raise my rent in California?

Most California rentals are subject to a maximum annual increase of 5% plus local inflation, not exceeding 10%. Some cities have stricter local caps.

Do rent caps apply to all types of California housing?

No. Exemptions often include single-family homes or new construction, but statewide caps may still apply if the property is owned by a corporation.

How do I find my city’s rent control rules?

Check your city housing department’s website or local rent board for the most up-to-date rules and coverage.

What can I do if my landlord raised my rent more than allowed?

File a complaint or petition with your city’s rent board or housing department and keep all records and communications.

Do landlords need to give written notice before raising rent?

Yes, California law requires written notice, usually 30 to 90 days in advance, depending on increase amount and local requirements.

California City Rent Caps: Local Ordinances Explained

Rent Control & Rent Stabilization California published June 21, 2025

California is home to some of the nation’s strongest renter protections, but each city can create its own local rent caps and ordinances in addition to statewide rules. If you rent in California, it’s important to know the different layers of laws that affect how much your landlord can raise your rent, as well as what steps to take if you believe your increase is unlawful or you need to respond to a notice. This article breaks down key rent control concepts, city-by-city rules, and the essential forms and resources to help you stay protected.

Understanding Rent Caps and Rent Stabilization

The California Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) sets a statewide cap on annual rent increases for most residential tenants. However, many cities layer additional local rules, known as rent control or rent stabilization ordinances. These local laws may further limit rent increases, provide stricter eviction protections, and sometimes require landlords to register rental units.

Key Terms:

Rent Cap: The maximum percentage a landlord may raise rent each year.
Rent Control: Local laws that restrict how much and how often rent can be increased, often also covering eviction rules.
Rent Stabilization: Similar to rent control, focusing on gradual rent hikes and long-term tenant protections.

How State and Local Rent Caps Work Together

Most California renters are covered by the Tenant Protection Act, which generally limits annual rent increases to 5% plus the local rate of inflation, but never more than 10% total. Yet, local ordinances (in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oakland) may impose stricter limits—sometimes capping increases to as little as 2%–3% a year. Always check your local city rules alongside state law.

Examples of Local Ordinances Across California

Los Angeles: The Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) covers most multi-unit properties built before October 1978. For much of 2023–2024, rent increases remained paused due to emergency COVID-19 measures.
San Francisco: The San Francisco Rent Ordinance applies to most buildings constructed before June 13, 1979, capping annual rent hikes based on inflation (often 1–2% per year).
Oakland: The Oakland Rent Adjustment Program covers many units built before January 1, 1983, limiting increases by the Consumer Price Index (usually 2–3%).
Berkeley, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and others: Each has its own rent board with unique caps and rules. Always consult your city’s housing authority.

Some properties—like single-family homes or newer construction—may be exempt from local ordinances but still covered by statewide law. Check your lease and local guidelines to confirm your protections.

Official Forms for California Renters

If you think your landlord has raised your rent beyond the allowed cap or has issued an improper notice, several official forms may be helpful:

Complaint Form: "Request for Rent Reduction or Investigation" (varies by city)
Example: If you live in Los Angeles and believe you’ve received an unlawful rent increase, use the RSO Complaint Form to ask the city’s housing department to investigate.
"Notice of Rent Increase" Forms
Landlords must provide written notice using the terms required by your city or the state. For example, California Civil Code Section 827 governs required notice periods. Find more at the CA Department of Consumer Affairs guide.
"Petition to Contest Rent Increase" (often city-specific)
For example, in San Francisco, tenants can use the San Francisco Rent Board Petition to challenge illegal rent increases.

Where to Submit Forms

Forms should be submitted to your city’s rent board, housing department, or directly to the landlord, depending on local rules. Always keep a copy for your records.

If you receive a rent increase notice, check your city housing office website promptly to confirm your rights and next steps before responding or paying the higher amount.

What Board or Tribunal Handles Rent Disputes?

In California, the main authority is the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), but most cities with rent control have a local Rent Board or Housing Department (e.g., Los Angeles Housing Department, San Francisco Rent Board). For statewide protections and formal complaints, visit the California Civil Rights Department: Housing.

Relevant Legislation

California Civil Code Sections 1946–1947.12 (Tenant Protection Act, Rent Caps)
City/County Rent Ordinances (check your local rent board or city housing resource)

FAQ: Local Rent Caps and Ordinances Across California Cities

How much can my landlord legally raise my rent in California?
For most rentals under state law, your rent can be raised up to 5% plus the local inflation rate, but not more than 10% in a 12-month period. Some cities have stricter caps, so check your local ordinance.
Do rent caps apply to all types of housing?
No. Single-family homes and most new construction are often exempt from local rent control, but may still be covered by the statewide cap if owned by a corporate landlord.
Where do I find my city’s rent control rules?
Start on your city housing department’s website. Larger cities like LA, San Francisco, and Oakland have dedicated rent boards with clear guidelines and resources.
What can I do if my landlord raised the rent illegally?
File a complaint or petition with your city’s rent board or housing department, and keep records of all communications.
Is my landlord required to notify me in writing before a rent increase?
Yes. California law requires written notice of rent increases—often 30–90 days in advance, depending on the size of the increase and local rules.

Key Takeaways for California Renters

California law places strict limits on rent increases—but your city may have even tighter caps.
Always check both state and local rules, and consult your lease.
If in doubt, use official city and state resources for complaints and assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

California Department of Housing and Community Development – statewide tenant information and support
Los Angeles Housing Department – for LA RSO cases and complaints
San Francisco Rent Board – guides, petitions, and city-specific rules
Oakland Rent Adjustment Program
California Tenants’ Guide from the Department of Consumer Affairs