Los Angeles County, CA Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)
Key Facts
- Registration
- Mandatory, annual
- Deadline
- September 30 each year
- Full Coverage Fee
- $90 per unit
- Pass-Through
- Up to 50% to tenants (covered units)
Summary
Mandatory rental registration is required in unincorporated LA County under the RSO. Landlords must register all rental units and pay annual fees by September 30. Fully covered units: $90/unit, just-cause only: $30/unit. Up to 50% of fees for covered units may be passed to 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. ... (2) If the same tenant remains in occupancy of a unit of residential real property over any 12-month period, the gross rental rate for the unit of residential real property shall not be increased in more than two increments over that 12-month period.
Full Breakdown
Mandatory rental registration is required in unincorporated LA County under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance. Landlords of covered units must register each rental unit with the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA). Registration requires providing unit details, current rent amounts, and tenant information. An annual registration fee is charged per unit (typically $30-$50, adjusted periodically). Registration helps the county track RSO compliance and ensures tenants can verify their unit's status. Landlords who fail to register cannot pursue certain eviction remedies.
Violations & Fines
Failure to register rental units carries penalties of $250-$500 per unit. Unregistered units may not be eligible for certain eviction processes. The annual registration fee late penalty is typically double the standard fee. Landlords who charge unregistered units above-market rents face additional scrutiny. File registration questions or complaints with DCBA at (800) 593-8222.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register my rental property in LA County?
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
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