New Law Grants Tenants The Right To Use A Clotheline Or Drying Rack

Effective January 1, 2016, a tenant may utilize a clothesline or drying rack in the tenant’s private area if all of the following conditions are met: (1) The clothesline or drying rack will not interfere with the maintenance of the rental property, (2) The clothesline or drying rack will not create a health or safety hazard, block doorways, or interfere with walkways or utility service equipment, (3) The tenant seeks the landlord’s consent before affixing a clothesline to a building, (4) Use of the clothesline or drying rack does not violate reasonable time or location restrictions imposed by the landlord, and (5) The tenant has received approval of the clothesline or drying rack, or the type of clothesline or drying rack, from the landlord.  (See Civil Code section 1940.20) For purposes of the new law, the following definitions apply: “Clothesline” includes a cord, rope, or wire from which laundered items may be hung to dry or air. A balcony, railing, awning, or other part of a structure or building shall not qualify as a clothesline. “Drying rack” means an apparatus from which laundered items may be hung to dry or air. A balcony, railing, awning, or other part of a structure or building shall not qualify as a drying rack. “Private area” means an outdoor area or an area in the tenant’s premises enclosed by a wall or fence with access from a door of the premises. Landlords are encouraged to review their leases to determine whether a modification may be appropriate to address the new law.  

For further information, please contact Ruzicka, Wallace & Coughlin, LLP at (949) 748-3600; website: www.rwclegal.com. 

The law firm of Ruzicka, Wallace & Coughlin, LLP represents landlords, property management companies, institutional and private lenders, employers and insurance companies throughout the State of California in real estate, business and employment litigation. The information provided herein is for general interest only and should not be relied upon or construed as legal advice.

© 2016 Ruzicka, Wallace & Coughlin, LLP.