Stockton, CA Rental Property Rules: Source-of-Income Discrimination (2026)
Key Facts
- Protected by
- Govt Code 12955
- Includes vouchers
- Section 8 covered
- Income rule
- Apply to tenant share
- Advertising ban
- No Section 8 prohibited
Summary
California Government Code section 12955 bars Stockton landlords from refusing to rent to applicants based on lawful source of income, including Section 8 and other government assistance. Source-of-income status is a protected category statewide.
It shall be unlawful: (a) For the owner of any housing accommodation to discriminate against or harass any person because of the race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income, disability, veteran or military status, or genetic information of that person. (b) For the owner of any housing accommodation to make or to cause to be made any written or oral inquiry concerning the race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, disability, veteran or military status, or genetic information of any person seeking to purchase, r
Full Breakdown
California treats source of income as a protected class under the Fair Employment and Housing Act, codified at Government Code section 12955. Stockton landlords may not refuse to rent, charge higher rent, or impose stricter terms because an applicant uses Section 8 housing choice vouchers, veterans benefits, Social Security, or other lawful income. Income-to-rent ratio rules must be applied to the combined sum of voucher and tenant contribution rather than to the tenants out-of-pocket portion only. Advertising that excludes voucher holders is prohibited. The Civil Rights Department investigates complaints and can pursue administrative or civil remedies.
Violations & Fines
Refusing applicants because of voucher status, advertising no Section 8, or applying inflated income tests can lead to investigations by the California Civil Rights Department, mandatory training, damages to applicants, and civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a landlord still screen voucher applicants?
Where can a Stockton tenant report discrimination?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Stockton
California rules heatmap·Compare Stockton to another location·View the California rental property rules overview
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