Information regarding the types of properties that are generally covered under Los Angeles rent control laws:
In Los Angeles, the local rent control law mainly applies to properties used as residences that were built before October 1978. This includes apartments, condominiums, townhomes, duplexes, triplexes, 4-plexes, two or more single-family dwelling units on the same parcel, rooms in a hotel, motel, rooming house, or boarding house occupied by the same tenant for 30 or more consecutive days, residential units attached to a commercial building, mobile homes, and recreational vehicles in mobile home parks.
Just being located in a rent-controlled area doesn't guarantee a specific unit is covered. Some exemptions apply within rent control ordinances.
While there isn't a simple list of rent control zip codes in Los Angeles due to variations within the city and surrounding areas, I can explain how to determine if a specific property is rent-controlled based on its location:
Use the Zone Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS): This official city tool allows you to enter an address and see if it falls under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). If "RSO Status" says "Yes," the property is rent-controlled. The LA's ZIMAS website reminds us of 90s websites but it still does the job.
How to check if the Los Angeles property is rent controled - step by step guide:
1. Visit the official LA's website for rent control check: zimas.lacity.org.
2. On front page you type the street name or street number of the property interested and then press Property Information (ZMAS) button - see screenshot:
3. On next screen you will need to fill the exact property details in the dialog box.
4. Once full detail of address is provided you will get the state of the Rent Control (RSO). You will need to look on left panel under Housing dropdown menu. There you will see a row saying Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) and the state: Yes or No. If it says Yes then property is part of the Los Angeles Rent Control's ordinance. If it says No then the property is not part of LA's rent control ordinance.
Unincorporated Los Angeles County:
Some unincorporated areas of the county like Altadena and Lennox have rent control under the Los Angeles County Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections Ordinance (RSTPO). You can check if a specific address falls under RSTPO by contacting the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs or exploring their resources at dcba.lacounty.gov/portfolio/rent-increases.
Other cities within Los Angeles County:
Some independent cities within the county, like Santa Monica and West Hollywood, have their own rent control ordinances. You'll need to research the specific regulations and applicable zip codes for each city.
If you're unsure about the rent control status of a property, consult with a tenant rights organization or an attorney specializing in housing law.
