California Late fee grace period

Is there a grace period before a late fee can be charged in California?

The California Tenants guide (2026, DRE) says grace periods are common in rental agreements, typically waiving the fee if rent is paid before the 6th. It says a late fee must be a reasonable estimate of the landlord's costs, and one so high it is a penalty is not valid. It cites no statutory grace period, and some local rent ordinances limit late fees.

Verified Source: California Tenants (2026 ed.), Dept. of Real Estate · last checked 2026-10-15