There are many City ordinances and State laws governing the rights and obligations of residential tenants and landlords.

Tenants and landlords can always visit this website for important information about everything from rent control to evictions, dispute resolution to relocation benefits.

View San José Housing Ordinances

Apartment Rent Ordinance

WHAT IS IT? This ordinance limits rent increases to 5% every 12 months, and provides a system for landlords and tenants to seek dispute mediation.

WHO IS COVERED? The ordinance covers people living in apartment buildings of 3 or more units, built before September 1979.

Tenant Protection Ordinance

WHAT IS IT? This ordinance requires landlords to cite a "just cause" before evicting tenants. There are 13 just causes in the City of San José.

WHO IS COVERED? The ordinance covers people living in apartment buildings of 3 or more units, as well as people living in guest houses and non-permitted units.

Ellis Act Ordinance

WHAT IS IT? This ordinance provides guidelines for apartment owners or developers who are planning to demolish or remove apartments from the rental market. In many circumstances, displaced tenants have a right to relocation benefits, and advance notice of 120 days or longer.

WHO IS COVERED? The ordinance covers people living in apartment buildings of 3 or more units, built before September 1979.

Housing Payment Equality Ordinance

WHAT IS IT? This ordinance prohibits discrimination against housing voucher holders applying for rental housing in San José.

WHO IS COVERED? The ordinance covers housing voucher holders applying for any type of rental housing, except single-family homes when the landlord lives in the home.