Columbus, OH Rental Property Rules: Rent Control (2026)
Rent control rules in Columbus, OH, also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances, limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Key Facts
- Rent Control
- Not allowed: state preemption
- State Law
- ORC §5321.02
- Rent Increases
- No limits; subject to lease terms
- Notice for Increase
- 30 days for month-to-month
- Protection
- Fair housing laws only
Summary
Columbus does not have rent control. Ohio Revised Code §5321.02 preempts local governments from enacting rent control ordinances. Landlords in Columbus may set and increase rents without limits, subject only to lease terms and anti-discrimination laws.
(A) Except as provided in division (B) of this section, no political subdivision may enact, adopt, renew, maintain, enforce, or continue in existence any charter provision, ordinance, resolution, rule, or other measure that is in conflict with this chapter, or that regulates the rights and obligations of parties to a rental agreement that are regulated by this chapter, including, without limitation, by any way imposing or requiring rent control or rent stabilization. (B) This chapter does not preempt any of the following: (1) Housing, building, health, or safety code, or any ordinance as described in division (A)(9) of section 5321.04 of the Revised Code, of any political subdivision; (2) Charter provision, ordinance, resolution, rule, or o
Full Breakdown
Ohio is one of many states that prohibit local rent control through state preemption. ORC §5321.02 prevents any Ohio municipality from enacting ordinances that limit the amount of rent a landlord may charge. Columbus landlords may increase rent with proper notice (typically 30 days for month-to-month tenancies). Rent increases during a fixed-term lease must comply with lease terms.
Violations & Fines
Not applicable: there is no rent control to violate. Tenants who believe a rent increase is discriminatory may file a fair housing complaint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Columbus have rent control?
How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Columbus
Compare Columbus to another location·View the Ohio rental property rules overview
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Rent Control in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Franklin County handle rent control.