How much can a California landlord charge as a security deposit?
In California, the total security deposit cap is 1 month of rent under AB 12, with a 2-month small-owner carve-out at Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(c)(5)(A). Refundable deposits (security, cleaning, pet, key) all count toward the cap. Non-refundable fees (application fees, clearly labeled non-refundable cleaning fees) are not counted. Cap is 1 month rent. Small natural-person owners (2 properties / 4 units max, and LLCs of all natural persons post-AB 414) may collect 2 months, per Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(c)(5)(A). When the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit within 21 days with an itemized statement of any deductions, under Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(h)(1).
Source: Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(h)(1)
This is an informational answer based on Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(h)(1) as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a California-licensed attorney.