Does Fresno, CA have its own bed-bug rules ordinance?

No. Fresno, CA does not appear to have a local bed-bug rules ordinance, California state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from California Civil Code §1954.603.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Fresno

Fresno, CA Public Health Rules: Bed-Bug Rules (2026)

Few Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

State law: Cal. Civil Code §1954.603
Disclosure required: All new tenants
Infested unit: Cannot legally rent
Remediation duty: Landlord pays

Summary

California Civil Code §1954.603 requires Fresno landlords to give written bed bug disclosures to tenants, prohibits renting infested units, and obligates pest control. Local enforcement runs through Fresno Code Enforcement and Public Health.

On and after July 1, 2017, prior to creating a new tenancy for a dwelling unit, a landlord shall provide a written notice to the prospective tenant as provided in this section. This notice shall be provided to all other tenants by January 1, 2018. The notice shall be in at least 10-point type and shall include, but is not limited to, the following: (a) General information about bed bug identification, behavior and biology, the importance of cooperation for prevention and treatment, and the importance of and for prompt written reporting of suspected infestations to the landlord.

Source: California Civil Code §1954.603View official code

Full Breakdown

California's statewide bed bug law (Civil Code §§1954.600-1954.605) applies to all Fresno rental housing. Landlords must provide every new tenant a written disclosure covering bed bug appearance, life cycle, and reporting steps. Renting a known-infested unit is illegal. Tenants must allow inspection and report suspected infestations promptly. Landlords who fail to remediate may be cited under FMC Chapter 10 (housing code) and California Civil Code §1941.1 habitability standards. Fresno Code Enforcement and the Multi-Family Inspection Program respond to complaints and can compel professional remediation.

Violations & Fines

Renting a known-infested unit, failing to disclose, or refusing to remediate may result in code citations, habitability claims, and tenant rent withholding under California Civil Code §1942 self-help repair-and-deduct.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord charge me for treatment?

Generally no. California law treats bed bug remediation as a habitability obligation. Landlords may only charge tenants if they prove tenant-caused infestation, which is rarely successful.

How do I report bed bugs in my apartment?

Notify your landlord in writing first. If unaddressed within a reasonable time, contact Fresno Code Enforcement at (559) 621-8400 to trigger an inspection.

Sources & Official References

[1]California Civil Code §1954.603

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All Fresno rules

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