San Francisco, CA Rental Property Rules: Relocation Assistance (2026)
Key Facts
- Code section
- Admin Code 37.9C
- Base 2025 amount
- Roughly $8,400 per tenant
- Tenant cap
- Three tenants per unit
- Vulnerable bonus
- About $5,500 extra
Summary
Landlords pursuing no-fault evictions must pay statutory relocation assistance per tenant, with elderly, disabled, and minor occupants receiving enhanced amounts. The Rent Board updates dollar figures annually for inflation under Administrative Code Section 37.9C.
1946.2. (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... (3) (A) The amount of relocation assistance or rent waiver shall be equal to one month of the tenant's rent that was in effect when the owner issued the notice to terminate the tenancy. Any relocation assistance shall be provided within 15 calendar days.
Full Breakdown
Section 37.9C, added by Ordinance 21-06 and expanded multiple times, sets per-tenant relocation amounts that adjusted to roughly $8,400 per tenant in 2025, capped at three tenants per unit. Elderly, disabled, or households with minor children receive an additional $5,500 each. Half is due upon notice service; the balance at move-out. Ellis Act removals carry separate state-mandated amounts under Government Code 7060.4. Unpaid relocation is a complete defense to the unlawful detainer, and tenants can also recover attorney's fees through Rent Board complaints filed within three years of the eviction notice.
Violations & Fines
Failing to pay relocation voids the eviction, exposes the landlord to treble damages, attorney's fees, and Rent Board administrative penalties up to $1,000 per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are relocation payments due in San Francisco evictions?
Do all evictions require relocation payments?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
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