California Rent Increase Laws Sacramento Landlords Need to Know in 2026

By Alpha Property Management | Published August 12, 2026

Quick answer: Rent increases on many Sacramento rentals are limited by California law, and the City of Sacramento has its own rental ordinance for certain properties. The limits are recalculated each year, notice requirements depend on the size of the increase, and some properties are exempt. Confirm the current rules for your property before you raise the rent.

Two Sets of Rules Can Apply in Sacramento

California's statewide Tenant Protection Act limits annual rent increases on many residential rentals and requires a valid reason to end longer tenancies. Properties inside the City of Sacramento may also fall under the city's own rental ordinance, which has its own coverage rules and registration requirements. A property can be covered by one, both, or neither, depending on its age, type, and ownership.

The Allowed Increase Changes Every Year

The maximum increase is tied to inflation, so the number changes each year. The California Department of Justice publishes the current limits on its rent cap information page. Check the current figure for Sacramento County before you send any notice.

Written Notice Is Required

A rent increase requires advance written notice to the tenant, and a larger increase requires a longer notice period. The notice must be delivered correctly for the increase to take effect.

Some Properties Are Exempt

Some single-family homes, condos, and newer buildings may be exempt from the statewide limit, but an exemption can depend on specific conditions and on written notice given to the tenant. Because exemptions are a legal question, confirm your property's status with a qualified attorney.

How Alpha Helps

California rental rules change often, and we keep up with them as part of day-to-day management. When Alpha manages your property, we prepare rent increase notices and handle lease renewals, starting at $99 per month for a single-family home. Learn more about our residential property management or call Sally at (916) 596-1665 for personal assistance.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Alpha Property Management is a licensed real estate broker (DRE #00870342), not a law firm. For questions about your property, please consult a qualified California attorney.