Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance
The City of San Diego’s Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance, San Diego Municipal Code (SDMC) Chapter 3, Article 12, Division 1 (§§ 312.0101 – 312.0112), becomes effective July 1, 2026. This Ordinance establishes a minimum wage for employees working in covered hotels, event centers, and amusement parks within the City of San Diego.
Hospitality Minimum Wage Rates
| Effective Date | Hotels & Amusement Parks | Event Centers |
|---|---|---|
| July 1, 2026 | $19.00 per hour | $21.06 per hour |
| July 1, 2027 | $20.50 per hour | $22.00 per hour |
| July 1, 2028 | $22.00 per hour | $23.00 per hour |
| July 1, 2029 | $23.50 per hour | $24.00 per hour |
| July 1, 2030 | $25.00 per hour | $25.00 per hour |
| July 1, 2031 | Adjusted annually based on the prior year’s increase in the cost of living (CPI) | Adjusted annually based on the prior year’s increase in the cost of living (CPI) |
Notice and Posting Requirements
The City will publish the official Hospitality Minimum Wage bulletins and notices by April 1, 2026. These materials will include:
- A bulletin announcing the minimum wage rates
- A workplace posting notice that must be displayed by all covered hospitality employers and
- A template employee notice that employers may use to provide required written information to employees.
Hospitality employers must post the official notice in a conspicuous location at each workplace or job site and provide the written notice to all employees on the effective date of the Ordinance (July 1, 2026) and to new employees at the time of hire.
Investigation Process
If you believe your rights under the Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance have been violated, you may file a complaint with the Minimum Wage Program any of the following ways:
- Online: Submit a complaint
- Mail: Download and complete the Complaint Declaration Form and mail it to: Compliance Department
OLSE/Minimum Wage Program
1200 Third Ave, Ste 900
MS CCP9-CD
San Diego, CA 92101 - Email: Download and complete the Complaint Declaration Form and send it to SDMinWage@sandiego.gov
- Phone: Call our office at 619-235-5912 for assistance
Helpful Information
The following information is coming soon:
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Covered Employers
- Fact Sheet
Contact Us
If you have any questions about your rights or responsibilities, contact the Office of Labor Standards & Enforcement Minimum Wage Program:
Email: SDMinWage@sandiego.gov
Phone: 619-235-5912
Fax: 619-533-3320
Mail: 1200 Third Avenue, Suite 900, MS CCP9-CD, San Diego, CA 92101