Apartment Rent Ordinance

This ordinance governs rent increases on apartments with three or more units, built and occupied prior to September 7, 1979. See the map of the rent-stabilized apartments in San José.

Ellis Act Ordinance

This ordinance applies to all residential buildings with four or more apartments. The Ellis Act Ordinance describes requirements that must be followed by property owners removing these apartments from the rental housing market. There are also additional requirements for buildings covered by the Apartment Rent Ordinance (Rent Controlled). Property owners are required to provide proper notice to tenants; compensation to tenants, as described further; and new units may be required to adhere to the Apartment Rent Ordinance (Rent Control).

Check this online map to see if a property is covered under the Apartment Rent Ordinance.

Tenant Protection Ordinance (Just Cause Evictions)

This ordinance outlines landlord responsibilities and tenant rights regarding notices to terminate a rental agreement.

Mobilehome Rent Ordinance

This ordinance regulates rents on mobilehomes and mobilehome lots. View a map of the mobilehome parks in San José.

Mobilehome Conversion Ordinance and Council Policy

The City's zoning policy and a City Council policy enhance protection of existing mobilehome park residents. The City has also developed an ordinance which includes more comprehensive review of development proposals for property with existing multifamily housing and mobilehome parks.

Housing Payment Equality Ordinance

The purpose of this ordinance is to provide increased access to housing opportunities for low-income residents who hold rental assistance vouchers and coupons, as it prohibits property owners from treating them differently based on the source of their income to pay rent.

Tenant Preference Policies

In March 2024, the City Council approved the Tenant Preference Program to Help Fight Displacement. This program helps renters applying for rent-restricted affordable housing who live in certain areas of the City that are undergoing, or at risk of, displacement. The program is currently being implemented. See the program webpage for more information.

contact

For questions or more information about the Tenant Preference Program, see the program webpage or contact the Policy Team at HSG-Policy@sanjoseca.gov. For all other programs, see webpages linked above or contact the Rent Stabilization Team at RSP@sanjoseca.gov.