April 7, 2026

The City of San Pablo, California, adopted additional renter protections that took effect April 1, 2026. These protections apply to a broader share of the city’s housing stock and provide increased stability for tenants. The ordinance extends “just cause” eviction requirements to additional unit types (including properties that are often exempt under state law). It requires landlords to state a valid reason for eviction after a defined tenancy period. It also increases relocation assistance for certain no fault evictions to two months of rent and establishes protections that prohibit tenant harassment. In summary, San Pablo’s new renter protections expand the scope of eviction regulation and increase the conditions that must be satisfied before a tenancy may be terminated within the city.

The framework includes provisions related to notice requirements, enforcement mechanisms, and tenant protections intended to improve housing security for the city’s renter majority. The ordinance incorporates safeguards tied to eviction procedures and outlines conduct that may constitute harassment under the law.

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If you have questions about this publication, please contact Adam Friedman, Ralph Vartolo or Michael DeRosa,
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, NY 11530, Phone: (212) 471-5100 | Fax: (212) 471-5150.