Free Printable California Lease Agreement & Requirements

Residential or commercial property rental contract

Sales Tax: 7.25%Notary: $15Witnesses: 1

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RESIDENTIAL LEASE AGREEMENT
State of California

This Lease Agreement is entered into on [DATE] between:

LANDLORD:
Name: [LANDLORD NAME]
Address: [LANDLORD ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], CA [ZIP]

TENANT:
Name: [TENANT NAME]
Address: [CURRENT ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], CA [ZIP]

PROPERTY ADDRESS:
[RENTAL PROPERTY ADDRESS]
City, State, ZIP: [CITY], CA [ZIP]

LEASE TERMS:
1. Term: This lease begins on [START DATE] and ends on [END DATE].
2. Rent: $[AMOUNT] per month, due on the [DAY] of each month.
3. Security Deposit: $[AMOUNT] (subject to California security deposit laws).
4. Late Fees: $[AMOUNT] if rent is not received within [DAYS] days of due date.

TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Maintain the property in good condition
- Pay all utilities as agreed
- Comply with all California tenant obligations
- Provide [NOTICE PERIOD] days notice before vacating

LANDLORD RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Maintain habitable conditions per California law
- Make necessary repairs in a timely manner
- Respect tenant's right to quiet enjoyment
- Follow California eviction procedures if necessary

This agreement is governed by California Landlord-Tenant Law (CA Statutes § [RELEVANT SECTIONS]).

LANDLORD SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
TENANT SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
    

FAQ: Lease Agreement in California

Is a Lease Agreement required in California?

Yes, in California, a Lease Agreement is required for most transactions of this type. Under California Civil Code § 1940-1954.06, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Lease Agreement may result in legal complications.

Does a Lease Agreement need to be notarized in California?

Notarization requirements in California (CA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $15. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.

What are the tax implications of a Lease Agreement in California?

California has a base sales tax rate of 7.25%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Lease Agreement, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a California tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.

What should be included in a lease agreement?

A lease agreement should include: names of landlord and tenant, property address, lease term, rent amount and due date, security deposit amount, maintenance responsibilities, rules and restrictions, and signatures of all parties. State-specific requirements may apply.

How much security deposit can a landlord charge?

Security deposit limits vary by state. Some states limit deposits to one or two months' rent, while others have no limit. The deposit must typically be returned within 15-60 days after the lease ends, minus any legitimate deductions for damages.

Can a landlord enter my rental property without notice?

No, most states require landlords to provide advance notice (typically 24-48 hours) before entering a rental property, except in emergencies. The lease agreement should specify the notice period and acceptable reasons for entry.

JRJ
Reviewed & Fact-Checked

Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.

Estate Planning Attorney

Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience

Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents

This Lease Agreement template for California has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Lease Agreement Costs in California

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary FeeNot requiredCalifornia standard rate: $15
Filing FeeNot requiredState filing: $15
Processing TimeImmediateTypical turnaround in California
Sales Tax7.25%California base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are California-specific estimates. Contact your local office for exact pricing.

California Lease Agreement Legal Guide

This legally binding document in California serves as official proof of transaction and is recognized by courts and government agencies.

Pursuant to California Civil Code § 1940-1954.06 in California, this Lease Agreement must meet specific criteria. The applicable sales tax is 7.25%. Notarization, which costs $15 in CA, may be required depending on the transaction type. 1 witness is needed.

Ensure your transaction is legally sound in California with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.

landlordtenantmonthly rentsecurity depositlease termrental propertylease contractrental agreementtenancy
Whether you're a first-time lease agreement user or a seasoned professional in California, understanding the legal nuances of this document is essential. California (CA) has specific statutes that govern how this form must be prepared, signed, and filed.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

California attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with CA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when California law changes

Enforceability in California

A Lease Agreement that meets all CA requirements is fully enforceable in California. Courts in California have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.

Getting It Done Right in California

Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any CA-required notarization. California makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.

Legal Standards in California

Under CA state code, your Lease Agreement must contain several mandatory elements. California courts have consistently held that documents missing key provisions — such as proper identification of parties or adequate descriptions — may be challenged or voided entirely.

California Lease Agreement Requirements

Review the following requirements to ensure your Lease Agreement is legally valid in California.

Security deposit limit applies
Lead paint disclosure required
Landlord must provide move-in checklist
Tenant has right to repair and deduct
Late fee cap enforced
Lease must state rent amount
Notice period for termination required
Landlord must return deposit within 30 days
Mold disclosure required
Rent control may apply

California Notarization

While notarization may not be required in California, it is recommended. Fees range from $15.

Before You Sign

Review all information carefully. In California, a 7.25% sales tax may apply.

Legal Protection

Keep copies of all signed documents. California law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.

California Filing Deadlines

Check California deadlines for filing. The state filing fee is $15. Late filing may result in penalties.

Where to File Your Lease Agreement in California

Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Lease Agreement.

LA County Clerk

Los Angeles

12400 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650

SF County Clerk

San Francisco

1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl, SF, CA 94102

San Diego County Clerk

San Diego

1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101

Sacramento County Clerk

Sacramento

600 8th St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Document Information

Document
Lease Agreement
State
California (CA)
Category
Real Estate
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
7.25%
Notary Fee
$15

California Legal Requirements

Governing Statute:

California Civil Code Section 1940-1954.1

  • Security deposit limited to 2 months rent (unfurnished)
  • Must provide 24-hour notice before entry
  • Rent control applies in certain cities
  • Written lease required for terms over 1 year

📊 Lease Agreement vs. Rental Agreement in California

Lease Agreement
Rental Agreement
Lease is typically 6-12 months or longer
Rental is usually month-to-month
California security deposit laws apply to both
California requires 1 witness for lease execution
Comparison based on California state law. Requirements may vary by county.

Legal Disclaimer

This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in California may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.