There are many laws that apply to rental housing. The laws that apply are dependent on the location of the property and the type of property (apartment, single-unit home, Accessory Dwelling Unit, etc.). Some apply throughout Marin, and some are specific to the city or county.
We oversee the areas outside of cities (unincorporated areas), so most of the information on our pages is specific to this area. Use our look-up tool if you’re not sure which area you live in.
We can't give legal advice, but we can help explain your rights under existing laws. Visit our Housing Help page for more information on resources that may be able to help you.
Map Tool Lookup
Not sure which law to follow for evictions and rent increases? Use our interactive map below to find our based on where you live.
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Marin Eviction and Rent Increase Law Checker
Content textEnter your address in this map to understand which laws apply to you.
Rights and Responsibilities
- Just Cause for Eviction Just Cause for eviction requires that tenants be given a reason if asked to move.
- Rent Increases Get more information about rent increases in Marin.
- Mandatory Mediation Program This program creates an opportunity for landlords and tenants to discuss rent increases greater than 5% over a 12-month period.
- Source of Income Protection This protection prohibits landlords from discriminating against tenants because they use housing vouchers or other forms of government assistance.
Resources
- Housing Help Find resources to help you locate or maintain your current housing.
- Rooted in Marin: A Place for Everyone Let's build a better Marin for all of us. This project aims to craft tools and resources that supports communities affected by displacement. Learn more about this initiative and sign up for updates.
- Tenants' and Landlords' Rights and Responsibilities Handbook This handbook is prepared by the California Department of Real Estate and offers helpful information about rights and responsibilities when renting.
- Marin Multi-Unit Housing Inspections We conduct health and safety inspections and respond to complaints for multi-unit housing with three or more rental units such as apartments, hotels/motels, and bed & breakfasts.
- California Resources for Tenants and Homeowners This webpage through the Attorney General's office provides helpful information about rights and responsibilities related to eviction, security deposits, habitability, and more.
Landlord Requirements
- Rental Registry Access the Marin County Rental Registry and get step by step instructions.
- Apply for a Business License All rentals in unincorporated Marin are required to have a business license.
- Apply for a Multi-Unit Housing Health Permit This permit is required for most properties with 3 or more non owner-occupied units.