This applies to rent-stabilized homes, and landlords can't charge more than the state allows.
Depends on the year the building was built or the number of units.
From San José Mun. Code § 17.23.315(B)(4), read Oct 4, 2026.Show the law
“No Landlord shall charge a Tenant an
application screening fee in excess of the amount allowed under California
Civil Code Section 1950.6 (b), as amended …”
State law applies here too. Where both cover a rental, the stricter city rule usually wins; each rule below says so.
San Jose lawDepends on the building
San José Apartment Rent Ordinance – application screening fee limit
How much can they charge me to apply?
Application fee is capped by state law.
This applies to rent-stabilized homes, and landlords can't charge more than the state allows.
Depends on the year the building was built or the number of units.
Who it covers
Buildings with a first certificate of occupancy on or before Sep 7, 1979.
Buildings with 3 or more units.
In force since
2017
The law, word for word
“No Landlord shall charge a Tenant an
application screening fee in excess of the amount allowed under California
Civil Code Section 1950.6 (b), as amended …”
San José Mun. Code § 17.23.315(B)(4) · sanjose.legistar.com · Retrieved Oct 4, 2026
California lawIn force
California application screening fee cap and rules
How much can they charge me to apply?
About $69 per applicant in 2026, max.
California's cap grows with inflation each year.
Who it covers
Covers: Landlords (owners of residential rental property) and their agents charging applicants.
In force since
Jan 1, 2026
Figure period
until Dec 2026
The law, word for word
“In no case shall the amount of the application screening fee charged by the landlord or their agent be greater than thirty dollars ($30) per applicant …”