National City Landlord Rules: Rent Cap, Eviction & Local Resources

Rent-cap, just-cause and emergency-order rules for landlords in National City, San Diego County, with links to the city’s official pages.

Last reviewed: Educational information, not legal advice
The short answer

The Attorney General’s chart lists no local rent-increase cap for National City, so the statewide AB 1482 cap applies to covered rentals (8.2% for increases starting 8/1/26–7/31/27 in the San Diego area). Check your local rent rules and the city’s ordinance before you raise rent or serve a notice.

Does National City have rent control?

The Attorney General’s chart of local rent-stabilization laws (read Nov 13, 2026) has no entry for National City. The statewide cap of 5% plus the regional CPI change, up to 10%, applies to rentals that are covered by AB 1482 (8.2% in the San Diego area for increases starting between Aug. 1, 2026 and July 31, 2027). The chart covers rent caps only; it does not cover just-cause, relocation, registry or other tenant rules, so check National City’s municipal code before you serve a notice.

Is there an emergency rent cap in National City right now?

The Governor’s Tropical Storm Rachel emergency (proclaimed Oct. 15, 2026) limits rent increases in San Diego County to 10% under Penal Code § 396 through Nov. 14, 2026, unless extended. It covers rental housing with an initial lease term of one year or less, including month-to-month tenancies (Cal OES price-gouging page). As of Nov 13, 2026, no extension had been announced. Check the emergency order tracker for the current status.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum rent increase in National City?

For most covered rentals the statewide cap is 5% plus the regional CPI change, up to 10% (8.2% in the San Diego area for increases starting 8/1/26–7/31/27). The Attorney General’s chart lists no local cap for National City. Use the rent increase wizard.

Do I need just cause to end a tenancy in National City?

For most tenancies of 12 months or more (or 24 months if all adult tenants have been there less than 12), state law requires a stated just cause (Civ. Code § 1946.2). Check whether the city adds its own rules.

Is there an emergency rent cap in National City now?

Possibly. Emergency price-gouging orders are county- or city-wide and change quickly. See the tracker.

Sources

Not legal advice

Local ordinances change often and this page may be out of date. Check the linked official sources, your city and, for decisions that matter, a qualified California attorney. Read the disclaimer.

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