Certain types of properties, portions of properties, or individual units on a property may be exempt if they meet specific requirements as defined under the CSFRA. See the FAQs and Section 1703 of the CSFRA to learn more about property and unit exemptions.

Landlords or tenants can file a petition to object to the exemption status of property, a portion of a property or a specific unit. The Petition for Objection to the Determination of Exemption must be filed with the Rental Housing Committee within fourteen (14) calendar days after the mailing of the exemption determination. If no Objection is filed, the determination is final.

General information on the petition process as well as necessary forms and workbooks are provided below. Interested landlords should contact division staff at mvrent@mountainview.gov or 650-903-6136 for help.

The Exemption Objection Petition Process

• If Exemption is denied: A landlord can file a petition to object to the denial. Landlords complete and submit a petition form and documentation to the Rent Stabilization Division.
  • They also provide (serve) the completed petition form to tenants.
    • Tenants are allowed (but not required) to fully participate in the hearing process, respond to the petition, appear and speak at the hearing and appeal a petition decision.
    • Tenants can respond in writing to the petition up to ten (10) days before the hearing.
• If Exemption is confirmed: Tenants can file a petition to object to the confirmation. Tenants complete and submit a petition form, workbook and documentation to the Rent Stabilization Division. If more than one tenant files an objection petition, the petitions may be consolidated and heard at the same hearing.
  • They also provide (serve) the completed petition form to their landlord.
    • Landlords are allowed (but not required) to fully participate in the hearing process, respond to the petition, appear and speak at the hearing and appeal a petition decision.
    • Landlords can respond in writing to the petition up to ten (10) days before the hearing.   
• A hearing officer is assigned to review the petition and a hearing is held.
  • At the hearing, both the landlord and tenants provide information about the property and answer any questions from the hearing officer.
• The hearing officer then issues a formal written decision with legal findings and details on the status of the property.
• Both parties (landlords and tenants) can appeal the hearing decision to the Rental Housing Committee.

• Exemption Objection Petition Form (Fillable PDF - Available soon)

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