San Jose Mun. Code Chapter 17.23 § 17.23.171
Security deposit (San Jose Apartment Rent Ordinance and Tenant Protection Ordinance)
Operative Text
"Security Deposit" shall have the meaning provided in California Civil Code Section 1950.5, as amended.
Under San Jose Municipal Code § 17.23.171, the term 'Security Deposit' carries the same meaning established by California Civil Code Section 1950.5, the state law that governs what landlords may collect, hold, and return at the end of a tenancy. By tying the local definition to state law, any updates to Civil Code Section 1950.5 automatically flow into the San Jose rent regulations as well.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under Chapter 17.23 should understand that the security deposit rules defined in California Civil Code Section 1950.5—covering permissible amounts, allowable deductions, and return deadlines—are incorporated by reference into San Jose's local code through § 17.23.171. Compliant operators generally ensure their deposit practices align with both the state statute and any subsequent amendments to it.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 17.23.171 means that the protections California Civil Code Section 1950.5 provides around security deposits—such as limits on the amount collected and requirements for returning funds—apply within San Jose's local rent regulations as well. Tenants who believe a deposit was improperly withheld may have options such as raising the violation as a defense in court, filing a complaint with the San Jose Rent Stabilization Program, or consulting a local tenant-rights organization for guidance.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 10, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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