Pasadena has a local rent-stabilization ordinance listed on the Attorney General’s chart (Pasadena City Charter §§ 1801 et seq.). Check it before you raise rent: it can be stricter than the statewide cap and has its own exemptions. Check your local rent rules and the city’s ordinance before you raise rent or serve a notice.
Does Pasadena have rent control?
Yes. The Attorney General’s chart lists Pasadena.
| Ordinance | How the cap works (AG summary) | Figure the AG lists |
|---|---|---|
| PasadenaPasadena City Charter §§ 1801 et seq. | 75% of the CPI change. | 2.25%10/1/25 – 9/30/26 period ended |
The period the AG lists (10/1/25 – 9/30/26) has already ended, and the chart (read Nov 13, 2026) had not yet been updated. The city sets the figure for the next period, so get the current figure from the city before you raise rent.
Source: California Attorney General, Limits on Rent Increases, read Nov 13, 2026. The chart is informational. A local cap applies instead of the statewide cap when it is lower; many local ordinances exempt newer buildings or most single-family homes and condos.
Is there an emergency rent cap in Pasadena right now?
The Governor’s Tropical Storm Rachel emergency (proclaimed Oct. 15, 2026) limits rent increases in Los Angeles 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.
Where do I find Pasadena’s official pages?
- Los Angeles County: courts, housing agencies, assessor
- Los Angeles County utilities
- Rent increase wizard · Notice date calculator
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum rent increase in Pasadena?
Pasadena has a local cap on the Attorney General’s chart (Pasadena City Charter §§ 1801 et seq.); the AG lists “2.25%” for “10/1/25 – 9/30/26”. Use the lower of the local cap and the statewide cap, and check the exemptions in the ordinance.
Do I need just cause to end a tenancy in Pasadena?
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 Pasadena now?
Possibly. Emergency price-gouging orders are county- or city-wide and change quickly. See the tracker.
Sources
- California Attorney General: Limits on Rent Increases (local chart)
- California Courts Self-Help: landlord eviction information
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.