From Golden Duplexes to Fair Chance Housing, Berkeley has carved its own legal path. This group of articles highlight the city-specific rules every local housing provider should know.
Berkeley’s FY 2026–2027 registration fees are $397 (fully covered) and $244 (partially covered) per unit. Payments are due July 1, 2026. A 100% late payment penalty applies starting July 2 and increases by 100% again on January 1, 2027. Continue Reading
Illegal dumping on sidewalks and streets can trigger citations, even if you didn’t cause it. In Berkeley, property owners are responsible for removing debris adjacent to their property, regardless of who left it there. Continue Reading
Leaving items on the sidewalk is illegal in Berkeley and can lead to fines. This guide explains proper disposal and how residents and owners can prevent illegal dumping. Continue Reading
Each spring, Berkeley sees a surge in student move-outs—and with it, illegal dumping, fines, and overflowing trash areas. This guide helps owners and residents plan ahead and properly handle everything from furniture to food waste. Continue Reading
Berkeley's Rental Housing Safety Program team, Angel Sindayen, Sloan Fiddler, and Andre Kidd, break down the inspection process, including the difference between proactive and complaint-based inspections, explain the RHSP Self-Certification Checklist (SCC), how annual fees are determined, and more! Continue Reading
RHSP compliance requires more than an inspection: owners must complete the SCC each year, keep it on file, provide tenant copies, and pay the annual City fee. This guide explains what Berkeley housing providers must do by July 1. Continue Reading
Holiday tree disposal mistakes can trigger Zero Waste fines. Here’s what Berkeley rental housing providers need to know. Continue Reading
Learn how Berkeley’s Home Hardening Rebate can reduce your transfer tax when you sell a duplex or small multi-unit property. Find out which upgrades qualify, what documentation you need, and how to plan improvements within the required timeline. Continue Reading
Recycling isn’t “one blue cart fits all.” Berkeley’s standardized carts require paper and containers to be separated, and mixing everything into one side can trigger contamination and enforcement issues. Continue Reading
The Rent Board has never undergone an audit in its 45-year history. Fees are rising, services are declining, and accountability is overdue. Join us in urging the City Auditor to follow through—send your message today. Continue Reading
The Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB) program has recently been expanded! Learn about the funding options for Berkeley rental housing owners. Continue Reading
Many owners consider pausing after they place a tenant. The risk is that forms, deadlines, and rent rules keep changing mid-lease. This overview explains why staying connected year-round prevents costly mistakes and ensures compliance in Berkeley. Continue Reading
