Deer at Upper Hastings Ranch (Photo – Daniel Peters)
In response to the devastating impact of the Eaton Fire, the Pasadena City Council, at the request of the Pasadena Rental Housing Board, has passed a new ordinance to protect qualifying income-eligible tenants who have been financially affected by the disaster. This ordinance shields these tenants from eviction due to nonpayment of rent.
By News Desk
The Eaton Fire, which began on January 7, 2025, caused widespread destruction, loss of life, and displacement across Pasadena and surrounding areas. Recognizing the immediate housing instability caused by the fire, the City Council declared a Local Emergency on January 13, 2025. Now, through this new ordinance, the Council is introducing protective measures to help those most affected.
Key Provisions of the Ordinance
The ordinance offers a temporary affirmative defense against eviction for tenants unable to pay rent due to financial hardships caused directly by the Eaton Fire. The key provisions are as follows:
1- Eviction Protection:
Tenants who meet eligibility requirements will not be evicted for nonpayment of rent between January 15 and July 31, 2025.
2- Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for protection under the ordinance, tenants must:
- Have lived in their rental unit prior to January 7, 2025.
- Have a 2024 household income at or below 150% of the Area Median Income.
- Have experienced a documented loss of at least 10% of their monthly income due to the Eaton Fire.
- Be actively seeking to replace lost income by applying for rent relief programs, unemployment assistance, or other employment opportunities (such as through the Pasadena Community Job Center).
3- Repayment of Rent:
Tenants will have twelve months, after the protection period, to repay any rent owed for the period between January 15 and July 31, 2025. Eviction will not occur for tenants who are unable to repay rent within that time frame.
4- Self-Certification:
Tenants must submit a monthly self-certification to verify their income eligibility and the financial impact caused by the Eaton Fire. This certification must be submitted within seven days of each rent due date. For rent due in February and March 2025, certifications must be submitted within fourteen days after the ordinance’s enactment.
5- Collaboration Encouraged:
Tenants and landlords are strongly encouraged to work together on repayment plans. The Pasadena Rent Stabilization Department will provide the necessary resources and self-certification forms to make the process easier.
Important Dates
- The ordinance was adopted on March 24, 2025.
- It will be effective immediately upon publication (typically the Thursday following adoption).
- The ordinance will remain in effect through July 31, 2025, unless extended or repealed by the City Council.
Additional Information
For further details or to access the self-certification forms, visit the Pasadena Rent Stabilization Department’s website or contact them at:
- Phone: (626) 744-7999
- Email: RentStabilization@CityOfPasadena.ne.
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