Rent control rules in Oakland, CA — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Oakland has strong rent control under the Rent Adjustment Ordinance (OMC Chapter 8.22). The Oakland Rent Adjustment Program limits annual rent increases to the CPI change (capped at 10%) for covered units. Oakland's rent control is stronger than California's statewide AB 1482 protections.
Oakland's Rent Adjustment Ordinance applies to most residential rental units built before January 1, 1983 (multi-family) and all units subject to Oakland's Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance. Annual rent increases are limited to the published CPI increase for the Oakland-San Jose metropolitan area, or 10%, whichever is less. Landlords may petition for additional increases based on operating expense increases or capital improvements. Rent increases require 30 days' written notice. Banking of unused increases is permitted in some circumstances. California AB 1482 provides additional statewide protections for units not covered by Oakland's ordinance.
Rent increases exceeding the allowed CPI adjustment are void. Tenants may file petitions with the Rent Adjustment Program for excess rent recovery. Landlords face penalties for non-compliance including treble damages.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle rent control.
See how Oakland's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
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