California Gov. Gavin Newsom has this month reduced the statewide price-gouging order he issued in January, now limiting its application to emergency and medical supplies, and only through Sept. 4. However, the change doesn’t leave the self-storage industry in the clear regarding rental-rate adjustments.
A separate emergency order related to the 2017 California wildfires continues to restrict self-storage pricing in 32 counties through at least March 25. The only counties in which that proclamation has expired are Santa Barbara and Ventura, according to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
Though state-issued price-gouging orders may have ended or are approaching expiration, some city and county restrictions could continue to impact self-storage businesses, SSA officials warned in a March 8 newsletter to members. California operators with questions about local price restrictions should consult their legal counsel, officials said. They can also network through the California Self Storage Association, which offers ongoing education and guidance through its website and events.
Sources:
SSA Magazine Weekly 3/8/21, Some California Price Restrictions Remain After Statewide Order Expires
Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, Executive Order N-81-20
Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, Price Gouging
