San Diego, CA Rental Property Rules: Rent Control (2026)
Rent control rules in San Diego, CA, also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances, limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- SDMC §§98.0701-98.0709
- Rent Cap
- 5% + CPI-U, max 10%/year (AB 1482)
- Effective
- June 24, 2023
- Immediate Protections
- From start of tenancy (exceeds AB 1482)
- Relocation
- 3 months' rent for seniors/disabled (vs. 1 month under AB 1482)
Summary
San Diego's Residential Tenant Protections Ordinance (SDMC §§98.0701-98.0709), adopted May 16, 2023, provides tenant protections that exceed California's AB 1482 Tenant Protection Act. Under state law, annual rent increases are capped at 5% plus local CPI-U, not exceeding 10% total. San Diego's ordinance provides protections from the start of tenancy (AB 1482 requires 12 months). Enhanced relocation assistance of 3 months' rent applies for senior and disabled tenants.
1947.12. (a) (1) Subject to subdivision (b), an owner of residential real property shall not, over the course of any 12-month period, increase the gross rental rate for a dwelling or a unit more than 5 percent plus the percentage change in the cost of living, or 10 percent, whichever is lower, of the lowest gross rental rate charged for that dwelling or unit at any time during the 12 months prior to the effective date of the increase. In determining the lowest gross rental amount pursuant to this section, any rent discounts, incentives, concessions, or credits offered by the owner of such unit of residential real property and accepted by the tenant shall be excluded.
Full Breakdown
San Diego may participate in state-authorized rent regulation programs. Where applicable, annual rent increases are capped at a percentage, often tied to Consumer Price Index plus a fixed amount. Rent-controlled units typically include older buildings built before a certain date. New construction is usually exempt. Landlords must provide proper notice before increasing rent. Tenants in controlled units have additional protections against displacement. Local rent boards may mediate disputes between landlords and tenants. Just cause eviction protections often accompany rent stabilization programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does San Diego have rent control?
How is San Diego's ordinance different from AB 1482?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California rental property rules overview
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Rent Control in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle rent control.