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California legal term

Housing in California Criminal Law

Current through 2026 California legislative session

In California criminal law, “Housing” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the California criminal code.

What does “Housing” mean in California criminal law?

“Housing” means any rental housing with an initial lease term of no longer than one year, including, but not limited to, a space rented in a mobilehome park or campground. (Cal. Penal Code § 396)

Statutes defining or using this term

Related terms in the same statutes

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.