Santa Monica Rent Control Ordinance

The Santa Monica Rent Control Ordinance establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for most residential rental units built before April 10, 1979. This includes limitations on rent increases, an annual general adjustment process, just cause for eviction requirements, and provisions for landlord fair return.

RENT INCREASE LIMITS (ANNUAL GENERAL ADJUSTMENT - GA)

The maximum rent for controlled units is called the Maximum Allowable Rent (MAR). All rent increases are limited by an Annual General Adjustment (GA) decided by the Rent Control Board, typically effective September 1st each year.

2025 Annual General Adjustment (GA):

  • The GA is 2.3%, effective September 1, 2025, for eligible units.

  • For units with an existing MAR of $2,587 or more, the maximum allowable increase to the MAR is capped at $60.

  • The GA is calculated as 75% of the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Los Angeles area, rounded to the nearest tenth, and cannot be less than zero or greater than 3%.

  • A tenancy must have started before September 1 of the prior year (September 1, 2024, for the 2025 GA) to be eligible for the increase.

Other Allowable Fees:

  • Registration Fee Pass-Through: Owners may pass through up to $10.00 per month to tenants, which is half of the annual registration fee (which is $240 per unit for the 2025/2026 fiscal year).

  • Property-Tax-Related Surcharges: For tenancies that began before March 1, 2018, owners may pass through specific property-tax-related surcharges, with a maximum limit of the actual prorated amount, $35 per month, or 4% of the 2025/2026 MAR, whichever is less. This pass-through is generally not allowed if the property was sold or reassessed on or after March 1, 2018.

EVICTION PROTECTIONS (JUST CAUSE FOR EVICTION)

Most tenants in Santa Monica are protected by Just Cause for Eviction laws, meaning a landlord cannot terminate a tenancy without one of the specific reasons listed in the City Charter.

"At-Fault" Evictions: For most "at-fault" reasons (like non-payment of rent, nuisance, or breach of lease), the landlord must provide the tenant with a written warning (Notice to Cure) and a reasonable amount of time to correct the violation before serving the notice to terminate the tenancy.

"No-Fault" Evictions: For "no-fault" evictions (such as owner move-in, removal of the unit from the rental market under the Ellis Act, or demolition/substantial remodel), the landlord is required to pay the tenant a permanent relocation fee.

For Owner/Relative Occupancy Evictions:

  • The owner/relative must intend to occupy the unit as their primary place of residence.

  • The owner or relative must move in within 60 days of the tenant vacating and must occupy the unit for a minimum period of two (2) years.

  • An owner is limited to evicting a tenant for owner or relative occupancy for one unit only on a given property.

Tenant Buyouts: Landlords offering to buy out a tenant's right to occupy a rent-controlled unit must give the tenant a written notice of their rights and the tenant has the right to rescind the agreement for up to 30 days after signing. The agreement must also be filed with the Rent Control Board.

Relocation Assistance Fees: For no-fault evictions, the permanent relocation assistance fee can range from $16,500 to $33,650 depending on the tenant's needs and circumstances (such as being a senior, disabled, or having minor children).


Peregrine Legal Group, PC, represents tenants throughout Santa Monica. Contact us to schedule a consultation.


City Website: https://www.santamonica.gov/maximum-lawful-rent 


Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge only and is not legal advice. For specific legal issues, you should consult with a qualified attorney or contact the Pasadena Rent Stabilization Department.