Modesto, CA Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)
Key Facts
- Registration fee
- None (free)
- Inspection fee
- $100 per unit audited
- Annual audit rate
- Up to 10% of units
- Code section
- MMC Title 9, Ch. 13 (Ord. 3703)
- Notice before inspection
- Minimum 2 weeks
Summary
Modesto requires all residential rental property owners to register with the city and self-certify unit habitability. An annual audit inspects up to 10% of units, with a $100 per-unit fee. Noncompliant owners face fines and a public registry listing.
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
Modesto Municipal Code Title 9, Chapter 13 (Ordinance 3703, adopted 2019) establishes the Rental Housing Safety Program (RHSP). All residential rental property owners must register online at no charge and self-certify that units meet minimum health and safety standards. The city audits up to 10% of units annually; selected owners receive at least two weeks' notice. The $100 per-unit inspection fee is charged upon audit selection and must be paid before a unit can pass inspection. Units can pass immediately if repairs are made on the spot. Owners may submit photo proof of correction within 30 days at no additional cost.
Violations & Fines
Failure to register or pass inspection results in noncompliant registry listing, administrative citations ($100–$500 escalating), and potential civil penalties up to $2,500 per violation per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every rental unit get inspected every year?
What happens if a rental property fails inspection?
Are owner-occupied homes covered by the Rental Housing Safety Program?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Modesto
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