Rent control rules in Chico, CA — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
California limits annual rent increases statewide to 5% plus the local change in the cost of living, capped at 10%, under the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB-1482). It also lets cities and counties enact their own stricter rent-control ordinances, subject to the limits of the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act.
Under Civil Code § 1947.12, a landlord cannot raise rent over a 12-month period by more than 5% plus the percentage change in the cost of living, or 10%, whichever is lower, measured against the lowest rent in the prior 12 months. The statewide cap exempts housing issued a certificate of occupancy within the last 15 years and single-family homes or condos alienable separate from any other unit when owned by an individual (with proper notice). On top of this, California permits local rent-control ordinances, and cities including Los Angeles and San Francisco set lower caps. But the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act (Civ. Code §§ 1954.50 et seq.) limits those local laws: it exempts single-family homes, condos, and units first occupied after February 1, 1995, and lets owners reset rent to market on a new tenancy.
A tenant charged above the lawful AB-1482 cap or a stricter local cap can demand a refund of the overcharge and a rollback; the excess increase is void. Local rent boards and city attorneys enforce municipal ordinances, and tenants may sue, sometimes for treble damages.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Chico, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in Chico for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California Build...
Chico, CA
Chico is a Tree City with a strong tree-preservation ordinance; removing protected or heritage trees, including many on private property, requires a city tre...
Chico, CA
Chico does not ban artificial turf and the City permits it as part of drought-tolerant landscapes. State law (AB 1572, Cal. Water Code §10608.14, eff. 2027) ...
Chico, CA
Under CMC §19.68.050 and §19.68.070, at least 90% of plants in non-turf areas must be suited to Chico's climate and require minimal water once established. S...
Chico, CA
City of Chico parks — including the 3,670-acre Bidwell Park — restrict drone operations under CMC Title 12R; advance written permission is required. CARD-man...
Chico, CA
Commercial drone work in Chico requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; the city does not issue separate commercial UAS permits. Operations on city...
See how Chico's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.