Oakland, California · Change
Applying for a place
What they can ask for in Oakland
How much can they charge me to apply?
About $69 per applicant in 2026, max.
California's cap grows with inflation each year.
Show the law
“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 …”
How big can the deposit be?
Max 1 month's rent.
An individual owner (2 rentals, 4 units at most) may ask for 2 months, but not from a service member.
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“a landlord shall not demand or receive security, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of an amount equal to one month’s rent, in addition to any rent for the first month paid on or before initial occupancy …”
Can they ask about my criminal record?
Not on the rental application.
Oakland bans these questions on rental applications.
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“Gender, Sexual Orientation, or Marital Status,
Age or Whether You Have Children Under 18 at the Home
Whether You Have Mental or Physical Disabilities
Criminal History …”
Who can help
- Get free legal helpFree help with your situation.LawHelpCA
- Find a lawyerReferral service of the State Bar.State Bar of California
Information about the law, not legal advice.