Security Deposit Laws in California
California caps security deposits at one month's rent (two months for qualifying small landlords), requires an itemized return within 21 days after move-out, and presumes 24 hours' written notice is reasonable before entry.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
California at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 1 month's rent
- 1 month's rent (2 months for qualifying small landlords)
- Deposit return deadline
- 21 days
- 21 days after the tenant vacates
- Interest on deposits
- Not required by state law
- Some cities have their own interest rules
- Notice before landlord entry
- 24 hours
- Reasonable written notice; 24 hours presumed reasonable (6 days if mailed)
The rules in California
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in California?
California limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (2 months for qualifying small landlords).
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?
California rule: 21 days after the tenant vacates.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in California?
No. California state law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Some cities have their own rules.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in California?
California rule: Reasonable written notice; 24 hours presumed reasonable (6 days if mailed).
Where do the California rules for residential leases come from?
They come from Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5 and Cal. Civ. Code 1954. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How California compares
California is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 21-day return deadline is shorter than the most common deadline of 30 days; 9 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.