The San Pablo City Council has passed a “just cause” and anti-harassment ordinance that is more in line with state law than earlier drafts following months of advocacy by the California Apartment Association and its members.

The ordinance reflects several key changes from earlier drafts that would have imposed more restrictive requirements on local housing providers.

In a 3-1 vote on Monday, March 2, the City Council approved the revised ordinance during its second reading. The final version maintains the 12-month timeline before just cause eviction rules apply, aligning with California’s Tenant Protection Act. Earlier drafts would have imposed just cause protections on Day 1 of the tenancy.

The council also removed a provision that would have required owners to re-rent units at the prior rental rate following certain no-fault evictions, such as a substantial renovation — a requirement widely viewed as a form of local rent control.

The ordinance also establishes a local anti-harassment chapter prohibiting conduct intended to pressure tenants to vacate, such as threatening to disclose immigration status or refusing to make required repairs — acts already illegal under state law.

Despite hearing strong objection from CAA and local housing providers, the ordinance adjusts relocation assistance to two months’ rent and applies to condos, duplexes and accessory dwelling units regardless of age.

Housing providers across the East Bay city played a critical role in shaping the outcome. Through calls, emails and public comments, owners and managers shared real-world examples of how the proposal would affect housing operations, property improvements and long-term investment decisions.

“We thank the many housing providers who took the time to contact council members, submit letters, and participate in the process,” said Jennifer Rizzo, CAA’s vice president of local public affairs. “Your engagement ensured that policymakers heard directly from those who provide housing in the community.”

The ordinance goes into effect 30 days after final approval. Until then, the state law under the Tenant Protection Act continues to govern eviction standards and relocation assistance in San Pablo.