Can a California landlord charge a non-refundable move-in or admin fee?
For residential rentals in California, under the Civil Code as amended by AB 12, SB 611, AB 2493 and AB 2801.
Last reviewed November 1, 2026 against California Civil Code 1950.5 and 1950.6 and the sources below · How we check facts
No
California law does not allow this charge.
What the law says
Not allowed as a non-refundable fee. Any fee charged at the start of a tenancy to process a new tenant, or for cleaning or damage, counts as security under Civil Code 1950.5: it is refundable, counts toward the deposit limit, and a lease cannot call it nonrefundable.
Why
California Civil Code 1950.5 defines security broadly: any payment, fee, deposit or charge imposed at the beginning of a tenancy to reimburse the landlord for processing a new tenant, or used for cleaning, damage or unpaid rent. That makes a move-in, admin, lease preparation or cleaning fee part of the security deposit. It must be refundable, it counts toward the one-month limit, and the law says a lease cannot call security nonrefundable.
What to do instead
Remove it from leases, move-in checklists and billing. If you need to cover the cost, build it into the rent or take it as part of a refundable deposit within the limit.
For renters
If a California landlord charges a non-refundable move-in or admin fee, ask in writing for it to be removed or refunded, and keep a copy. Disputes up to the small claims limit can go to small claims court. California renter guide.
Check any other charge: California fee checker.
Other California fees
Amenity fee · Application screening fee · Credit card or online payment fee · Fee for paying by check · Fee for serving a notice · Late fee · Non-refundable pet fee · Parking fee · Pet rent · Rent reporting fee · Returned check fee · Security deposit · Storage fee · Utility charge
Frequently asked questions
Can a California landlord charge a non-refundable move-in or admin fee?
No. Not allowed as a non-refundable fee. Any fee charged at the start of a tenancy to process a new tenant, or for cleaning or damage, counts as security under Civil Code 1950.5: it is refundable, counts toward the deposit limit, and a lease cannot call it nonrefundable.
What if I already paid a non-refundable move-in or admin fee?
Ask the landlord in writing for a refund and keep a copy. If the charge was taken at move-in, it is part of your security deposit and must come back with the rest of the deposit, less lawful deductions.
Related
Not legal advice. Confirm your lease with a California attorney.