Fresno, CA Rental Property Rules: Security Deposit Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Standard cap
- One month's rent
- Small-landlord cap
- Two months, limited eligibility
- Return deadline
- 21 days after move-out
- Bad-faith damages
- Up to 2x deposit
Summary
California caps Fresno security deposits at one month's rent for most residential tenancies under AB 12, effective July 2024. Landlords must itemize deductions and return the balance within twenty-one days of move-out.
(c)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), (3), or (5), a landlord shall not demand or receive security, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of an amount equal to one month's rent, in addition to any rent for the first month paid on or before initial occupancy. ... (5)(A) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), a landlord shall not demand or receive security, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of an amount equal to two months' rent... if the landlord meets both of the following requirements: (i) The landlord is a natural person or a limited liability company in which all members are natural persons. (ii) The landlord owns no more than two residential rental properties that collectively include no more than four dwelling units offered for rent.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Under California Civil Code Section 1950.5 as amended by AB 12, residential security deposits in Fresno are capped at one month's rent regardless of furnished or unfurnished status, with a narrow small-landlord exception allowing two months for landlords owning no more than two properties with four or fewer units total. Landlords must return the deposit within twenty-one calendar days after the tenant vacates, accompanied by an itemized statement of any deductions for unpaid rent, cleaning beyond ordinary wear, or damage. Tenants may request an initial inspection before move-out to identify and cure issues. Wrongful retention exposes landlords to statutory damages of up to twice the deposit amount.
Violations & Fines
Charging more than one month's deposit, failing to return funds within twenty-one days, or retaining the deposit in bad faith subjects Fresno landlords to refund liability plus statutory damages up to twice the deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can my Fresno landlord charge as a deposit?
What if my deposit is not returned in time?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno
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