Price Gouging
Penal Code 396 PC prohibits explicitly increasing the price of essential goods and services by more than 10 percent during a declared state of emergency, whether declared by the President of the United States or the Governor of California. This law may apply during national, state, or local emergencies. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order waiving The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Coastal Act requirements for reconstruction and the price gouging law is in effect for Jan 7, 2026. If you are a consumer who believes they may be a victim of price gouging as it relates to real estate transactions and rental housing, complaints can be submitted to DRE: