Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in San Francisco

San Francisco, 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
Civil Code 1954.603
SF authority
DPH Housing Inspection
Disclosure
Required at lease signing
Treatment
Licensed PCO required

Summary

California Civil Code Section 1954.603 plus SF Health Code habitability rules require landlords to disclose known bed bug infestations, prohibit retaliation, and respond to tenant reports with licensed professional treatment.

1954.603. 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... Common signs and symptoms of a possible bed bug infestation: Small red to reddish brown fecal spots on mattresses... (b) The procedure to report suspected infestations to the landlord.

Source: San Francisco Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

California law requires written bed bug disclosure to all new tenants and posting of educational information. SF DPH treats bed bug complaints under Health Code Article 11 housing inspection authority. Landlords cannot show units they know contain active infestations and must hire a licensed pest control operator within a reasonable time after a tenant report. Tenants must allow access for inspection and treatment, including pre-treatment laundering of belongings. Mattresses removed for disposal must be wrapped per SF DPH protocol to prevent spread.

Violations & Fines

Failure to disclose, retaliating against reporting tenants, or refusing to treat can trigger DPH notices of violation, civil penalties, and tenant rent-reduction or relocation claims through SF Rent Board petitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my SF landlord deduct treatment costs from my deposit?
Generally no. Bed bug treatment is the landlord's responsibility under California habitability law unless the tenant clearly caused the infestation, which is hard to prove.
Does SF require bed bug disclosure before signing a lease?
Yes. State law requires written bed bug information at lease signing, and SF DPH may issue habitability violations if landlords conceal known active infestations.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Francisco

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsRestaurant Grade CardsSome RestrictionsRodent ControlSome RestrictionsFood Handler CertificationSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome Restrictions

All San Francisco rules

California rules heatmap·Compare San Francisco to another location·View the California public health rules overview

Get notified when Bed-Bug Rules in San Francisco, CA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.