California: rules and deadlines at a glance

Every 9 topic we track for California on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how California compares.

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Claim deadlines · Small claims limits · Property division · Dog bite rules · Shared fault rules · Security deposit rules · Eviction notice rules · Property tax rates

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.

Filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Property damage	3 years

Claim deadlines

Acknowledge	15 days
Accept or deny	40 days after proof of claim
Pay	30 days for undisputed amounts

Small claims limits Single detailed source

Dollar limit	$12,500 (individuals); $6,250 (businesses)
Filing fee	$30, $50 or $75
Lawyers	Not at the hearing

Property division

System	Community property
Opt-in community property	No

Dog bite rules Single detailed source

Rule	Strict liability
Details	Strict liability

Shared fault rules

Rule	Pure comparative negligence
When you are barred	Up to 99% at fault: damages reduced by your share

Security deposit rules Single detailed source

Maximum deposit	1 month's rent (2 months for some small landlords)
Return deadline	21 days

Eviction notice rules Single detailed source

Notice before filing	3 days, not counting weekends and court holidays

Property tax rates

Effective rate	0.70%
On a $300,000 home	$2,100 a year