Anaheim vs Santa Ana
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Anaheim and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
California Civil Code Section 1950.5 caps Anaheim residential security deposits and governs itemization, return timelines, and tenant remedies; Anaheim has no local rule that varies the statewide maximum or refund process.
View full Anaheim rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
California Civil Code 1950.5 (amended by AB 12) caps residential security deposits at one month's rent for most landlords starting July 2024 and requires itemized return within 21 days of move-out, applicable in Santa Ana.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | Civil Code 1950.5 | - |
| Cap | 1 month rent (most) | - |
| Return window | 21 days | - |
| Bad-faith damages | Up to 2x deposit | - |
| Standard cap | - | One month rent |
| Small landlord | - | Up to two months |
| Return deadline | - | 21 days from move-out |
| Receipts threshold | - | Over $125 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
How long does my Anaheim landlord have to return my deposit?
Twenty-one calendar days from move-out. The landlord must return the balance with an itemized list of any deductions for unpaid rent or reasonable cleaning and repair.
Can my landlord charge me for normal wear and tear?
No. Civil Code 1950.5 only authorizes deductions for unpaid rent, repair of damage beyond ordinary wear, and reasonable cleaning, not routine wear from typical use of the unit.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can a landlord still charge two months' deposit?
Only if the landlord owns no more than two residential properties with four or fewer total units and is not a real estate investment trust or LLC with corporate landlord status.
What if my deposit is returned late?
California Civil Code allows tenants to recover the full deposit and up to twice the amount as statutory damages when a landlord acts in bad faith by withholding without itemization within 21 days.
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