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Long Beach, CA Rental Property Rules: Relocation Assistance (2026)

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

Key Facts

Code
LBMC 8.97
Trigger
No-fault or 10%+ raise
Bonus tenants
Senior, disabled, low-income
Timing
Before notice expires

Summary

Long Beach Tenant Relocation Assistance Ordinance LBMC 8.97 requires landlords pulling no-fault evictions or imposing rent hikes above ten percent in twelve months to pay displaced tenants a fixed relocation amount before regaining possession.

(d) (1) For a tenancy for which just cause is required to terminate the tenancy under subdivision (a), if an owner of residential real property issues a termination notice based on a no-fault just cause described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (b), the owner shall, regardless of the tenant’s income, at the owner’s option, do one of the following: (A) Assist the tenant to relocate by providing a direct payment to the tenant as described in paragraph (3). (B) Waive in writing the payment of rent for the final month of the tenancy, prior to the rent becoming due. (2)

Source: City of Long Beach Tenant HelplineView official code

Full Breakdown

Under LBMC 8.97, qualifying no-fault evictions and certain rent increases above ten percent within a twelve-month window trigger mandatory tenant relocation assistance, paid by the landlord directly to the household. The base payment is set in the ordinance and adjusted by household composition, with bonus amounts for senior, disabled, minor-child, or low-income tenants. The payment is due before the termination notice expires or before the rent increase takes effect, whichever is earlier. Tenants who are not paid may use the missing assistance as a defense to unlawful detainer or pursue civil recovery.

Violations & Fines

Failing to pay relocation assistance when due, or under-paying despite a qualifying household status, blocks the eviction, supports tenant defenses, and can result in civil damages plus attorney fees under LBMC 8.97.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a small rent bump trigger the payment?
No, only cumulative rent increases above ten percent within twelve months at a covered unit trigger relocation assistance under LBMC 8.97; smaller increases are exempt from this trigger.
What if my landlord refuses to pay?
You can raise the missing relocation payment as a defense to eviction, contact the Long Beach Tenant Helpline, or sue civilly to recover the amount plus statutory damages.

Sources & Official References

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