Measure O For Rent Units
The Measure O Eligibility Application(PDF, 420KB) has been updated. Please use the updated application revised August 2026
For Rent Units
Measure O units are restricted for rent to households of very-low and low income households, or those households having a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher from the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz. The maximum allowable rent, as well as the maximum income that a Measure O tenant may have, are determined through a formula designated in a City resolution governing the unit's affordability. Tenants must report their income on an annual basis.
The owner/ landlord of a Measure O unit must submit to the City a Notice of Measure O Unit Available for Rent.(PDF, 44KB) The City establishes a maximum allowable rent according to the governing resolution, and authorizes the owner to rent the unit to an eligible tenant.
How to Rent a Measure O Unit
Potential renters may have incomes no greater than those allowable under the governing Resolution for the unit. Renters of Measure O units should access the list of Measure O rental units and income limits for tenants(PDF, 83KB) and, after determining that their incomes are below the maximum allowed, directly contact the landlord of a unit they are interested in.
The prospective tenant must then convince the landlord that 1) the tenant's income will be below the maximum allowed for that unit when verified, and 2) that the tenant will be a good choice to rent the unit. If the landlord agrees to consider a potential tenant, the tenant must submit a completed Measure O Eligibility Application(PDF, 420KB) to the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz. This may only be done with the concurrence of the landlord, and only for a specific Measure O unit. No pre-qualifying for Measure O is permitted. Visit the General Measure O Eligibility FAQ page for FAQs.
The application includes a letter of referral from the landlord to the Housing Authority requesting that the renter be verified as income eligible. The landlord must also pay an application processing fee to the Housing Authority which must be included with the application.
The landlord (as well as the City and the tenant) will receive a letter of eligibility from the Housing Authority confirming the tenant is income-eligible to rent the unit.
Local Preference for Renters
The City’s Local Preference Policy applies to City-regulated affordable housing, including Measure O rental units. Some projects may also have additional funding or program requirements. For current preference categories and details, see the Local Preference Policy.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Housing Team at affordablehousing@santacruzca.gov.