The state of emergency in Calaveras and Tuolumne counties has expired, lifting the 10% limit on rent increases that had been in effect since Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Sept. 19 proclamation.

The governor’s emergency declaration had triggered California’s anti-price-gouging law, Penal Code Section 396, which makes it illegal to increase the price of many consumer goods and services, including that of rental housing, by more than 10% above pre-emergency levels. Anyone convicted of violating the statewide anti-price-gouging law can face a year in county jail, a fine of up to $10,000, or both, as well as civil penalties. Local ordinances may impose additional penalties.

With the expiration of the state of emergency, rental housing providers in Calaveras and Tuolumne counties are no longer subject to these statewide rent-increase limits.

The emergency was declared following the TCU Lightning Complex Fires, which burned 13,869 acres and, according to early reports, destroyed or damaged more than 100 structures, including about 50 homes in Chinese Camp. 

As a reminder, the California Apartment Association does not track emergency declarations issued by local officials, which can also trigger anti-price-gouging laws. Rental property owners should contact applicable local authorities for information related to any local emergency declarations still in effect.