Citrus Heights's Rental Property Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles rental property rules a little differently. In Citrus Heights, California, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Just Cause Eviction

Citrus Heights has no local just-cause eviction ordinance. Tenants are protected by California's statewide AB 1482 Tenant Protection Act, which requires just cause for evictions after 12 months of tenancy in covered units and caps annual rent increases at 5% plus CPI (10% maximum).

Key details: Local Ordinance: None adopted. State Law: AB 1482 (CC §1946.2). Rent Cap: 5% + CPI, max 10%. Just Cause: After 12 months tenancy. Relocation: 1 month rent (no-fault).

Illegal evictions can result in tenant lawsuits for damages, attorney fees, and up to three times actual damages for willful violations under Civil Code §1946.2(h).

Rent Control

Citrus Heights has no local rent control ordinance. California AB 1482 (Tenant Protection Act of 2019) applies statewide: annual rent increases capped at 5% + CPI (max 10%) for covered units, plus just-cause eviction protections. Single-family homes owned by individuals may be exempt.

Key details: Local Cap: None (no local rent control). State Law: AB 1482 applies. Annual Cap: 5% + CPI, max 10%. Just Cause: Required after 12 months. SFH Exempt: If owned by individuals.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Rental Registration

Citrus Heights does not require a general rental registration program for long-term residential rentals. Landlords must comply with state habitability requirements (Civil Code §1941.1) and Sacramento County Environmental Management Department rules. Business license required if operating rentals as a business.

Key details: Registration: Not required citywide. Habitability: CC §1941.1 applies. Enforcement: Complaint-based. Business License: May be required. Inspections: No routine program.

Substandard housing violations can result in administrative citations, abatement orders, and referral to receivership under California Health & Safety Code §17980.

The rules around rental registration in Citrus Heights lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Citrus Heights's rental property rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Citrus Heights is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Citrus Heights's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.