Chico, CA Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- CMC Ch. 2R.32
- Enforcement areas
- Areas #1 and #2, plus rehab zone
- Covered in area #1
- Two-family and multi-family units
- Covered in rehab zone/area #2
- All dwelling units
Summary
Chico designates systematic housing code enforcement areas #1 and #2 where the building division may proactively inspect rental and multi-family dwellings, not just respond to complaints.
There are hereby established systematic housing code enforcement areas #1 and #2, as delineated on the Exhibit A attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter.
B. There is hereby established within systematic housing code enforcement area #1 a housing rehabilitation area as delineated on the Exhibit A attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter.
C. The building division is hereby authorized to inspect two-family and multiple-family dwellings within systematic housing code enforcement area #1.
D. The building division is hereby authorized to inspect all dwellings within the housing rehabilitation area of systematic housing code enforcement area #1 and all dwelling units within systematic housing code enforcement area #2.
E. Entry and inspection of dwelling units shall be made in accordance with Section
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code Ch. 2R.32 lets the city inspect housing proactively rather than complaint-driven only. The council found run-down and dilapidated housing conditions, sanitation, structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection defects, in designated areas (§2R.32.005), then established enforcement areas #1 and #2, plus a housing rehabilitation zone within area #1 (§2R.32.010). The building division is authorized to inspect two-family and multi-family dwellings in area #1, and all dwellings within the rehabilitation zone and all of area #2. Entry and inspection follow the notice/consent procedures of § 1.12.010.
Violations & Fines
Owners cannot refuse a properly noticed inspection under this program; entry follows § 1.12.010's procedures, and non-compliant housing conditions identified are subject to code enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chico proactively inspect rental housing?
Which units are covered in enforcement area #1?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California rental inspections overview
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