The California Apartment Association is rallying members to oppose a Santa Clara County proposal Tuesday that would mandate up to $16,000 in relocation payments and day-one just-cause eviction rules.

The proposal includes several costly new requirements for housing providers: day-one just-cause eviction protections expanded to duplexes and single-family homes; relocation payments of up to $16,000 per no-fault eviction; removal of restrictions on additional occupants; and new enforcement mechanisms that could include private lawsuits, county enforcement actions, and fines of up to $100 per day for late relocation payments.

These policies would make it more expensive and risky to provide rental housing in Santa Clara County without adding a single unit of supply. Increased relocation fees, expanded occupancy allowances, and higher penalties all raise the cost and regulatory burden on housing providers. The proposals also come without meaningful outreach to housing providers and other stakeholders.

Policies adopted in unincorporated Santa Clara County can be replicated by cities throughout the region, making the outcome of Tuesday’s hearing significant beyond county lines.