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Anaheim, CA Employment Preemption: Minimum Wage Preemption (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

State minimum
$16.50/hour 2026
Citywide local minimum
None enacted
Resort living wage
Measure L applies
Fast-food minimum
$20/hour AB 1228
Indexing
Annual CPI adjustment

Summary

Anaheim follows California's statewide minimum wage of $16.50/hour (2026), indexed to inflation. The city has no general local minimum wage, but Resort-area employers must pay the higher Measure L living wage.

1182.12. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, on and after July 1, 2014, the minimum wage for all industries shall be not less than nine dollars ($9) per hour, and on and after January 1, 2016, the minimum wage for all industries shall be not less than ten dollars ($10) per hour. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the minimum wage for all industries shall not be less than the amounts set forth in this subdivision, except when the scheduled increases in paragraphs (1) and (2) are temporarily suspended under subdivision (d). (1) For any employer who employs 26 or more employees, the minimum wage shall be as follows: ... (F) From January 1, 2022, and until adjusted by subdivision (c)—fifteen dollars ($15) per hour.

Source: Anaheim Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

California Labor Code section 1182.12 sets a statewide minimum wage of $16.50/hour effective January 2026, indexed annually to the lesser of 3.5% or the Consumer Price Index. Anaheim has not enacted a general citywide minimum wage. The Anaheim Resort Living Wage Ordinance (Measure L, AMC Chapter 1.05) imposes a higher floor, but only on subsidized hospitality employers in the Resort District. Fast-food employers covered by AB 1228 must pay $20/hour. State law preempts cities from setting wages below the state minimum but allows higher local floors.

Violations & Fines

Wage theft triggers state Labor Commissioner enforcement, recovery of unpaid wages plus liquidated damages, civil penalties up to $200 per pay period, and potential criminal prosecution for willful violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Anaheim have a citywide minimum wage?
No. Anaheim follows California's statewide minimum wage of $16.50/hour. The Measure L living wage is narrower, applying only to subsidized Resort-area hospitality employers.
What about tipped workers?
California does not allow a tip credit. Tipped workers must receive the full minimum wage from their employer; tips are additional and may not offset wage obligations.

Sources & Official References

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