Rent Control: Castaic vs Santa Monica
How do rent control rules compare between Castaic, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Castaic and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
Unincorporated LA County has its own Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) effective April 1, 2020, with amendments effective January 1, 2025. Fully covered units (2+ units, pre-Feb 1995) have rent increase caps. Partially covered units have just-cause only protections.
View full Castaic rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica has one of California's strictest rent control laws, adopted by voters in 1979. The 2025 general adjustment is 2.3% (max $60 increase, effective Sept 1). Covers most multi-family buildings built before April 10, 1979. Annual registration fee is $240/unit.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castaic | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| RSO | Effective April 1, 2020 | - |
| Full Coverage | 2+ units, pre-1995, rent caps | - |
| Partial Coverage | Just-cause eviction only | - |
| 2025 Update | Stricter rent increase limits | - |
| Since | - | 1979 voter-approved |
| 2025 Adjustment | - | 2.3%, max $60 |
| Coverage | - | Pre-April 1979 multi-family |
| Registration Fee | - | $240/unit/year ($10/mo pass-through) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castaic FAQ
How much can my landlord raise rent in unincorporated LA County?
Under the RSO, annual increases are capped at a percentage set by the county (typically 3-4%, tied to CPI). This applies to units built before February 1, 1995, in unincorporated areas. Check current allowed increases at dcba.lacounty.gov.
Is my rental unit covered by rent control?
If it's in unincorporated LA County and was built before February 1, 1995, it's likely covered by the RSO. Single-family homes (unless corporate-owned), post-1995 units, and owner-occupied duplexes are exempt. Contact (800) 593-8222 to verify.
What if my landlord raises rent more than allowed?
File a complaint with the LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs at (800) 593-8222 or dcba.lacounty.gov. You may be entitled to a refund of excess rent paid plus interest.
Santa Monica FAQ
Is my apartment rent-controlled?
Buildings with 2+ units built before April 10, 1979 are covered. Contact the Rent Control Board to verify.
How is Santa Monica's rent control different?
It's a voter-enacted charter amendment with its own Rent Control Board, making it among the strongest in the US.
Compare other topics
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