Rent control rules in San Jose, CA — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
San Jose's Apartment Rent Ordinance (ARO) under SJMC Chapter 17.23 is one of California's strongest local rent control laws. The ARO covers rental units in buildings with 3+ units that received a certificate of occupancy before September 7, 1979. Annual rent increases are capped at 5% of the current rent. Landlords must petition the Rent Stabilization Program for increases exceeding the annual allowable amount. The City also enforces the statewide Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) for units not covered by the local ordinance.
The ARO requires landlords to register covered units with the City's Rent Stabilization Program. Tenants may petition for a downward rent adjustment if the unit has habitability deficiencies. Banking of unused rent increases is permitted up to a cumulative 8% over the base year rent. Landlords must provide tenants with a notice of their rights under the ARO at the beginning of tenancy. Units exempt from the ARO include single-family homes, condos, and buildings with certificates of occupancy after September 7, 1979.
Landlords who impose rent increases exceeding the allowable amount face penalties including rent refunds, administrative fines, and potential civil liability. Tenants can file petitions with the Rent Stabilization Program at no cost.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle rent control.
See how San Jose's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
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