Rent control rules in Santa Ana, CA — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Santa Ana enacted a Rent Stabilization Ordinance limiting annual rent increases for qualifying residential units. In addition, California's Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) caps annual rent increases at 5% plus local CPI or 10%, whichever is less, for units not covered by stronger local protections. Santa Ana's local ordinance may provide stricter limits than the state baseline for covered units.
Santa Ana 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.
Exceeding allowed rent increase: tenant may file complaint with rent board. Overcharges must be refunded with interest. Repeated violations: fines $1,000 to $10,000.
Santa Ana, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle rent control.
See how Santa Ana's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
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