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FreeNetLaw Consumer Legal Reference

Robocall and Telemarketing Laws in California

Your rights against unwanted robocalls and telemarketing in California. Includes state-specific protections beyond the federal TCPA and Do Not Call Registry.

Data last updated: Jan 15, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • State Do Not Call list: No.
  • Private right of action: Yes.
  • Penalties: Up to $2,500 per violation under state law. Additional penalties under the California Invasion of Privacy Act for recorded calls..
  • Enforcement: California Attorney General's Office / California Public Utilities Commission.
No State DNC list
Yes Private right of action
Up to $2,500 per violation under state law. Additional penalties under the California Invasion of Privacy Act for recorded calls. State penalties

California Telemarketing Laws

  • State Do Not Call listNot available
  • State TCPA equivalentCalifornia Automatic Dialing-Announcing Device (ADAD) Restrictions (Cal. Pub. Util. Code § 2871–2876)
  • PenaltiesUp to $2,500 per violation under state law. Additional penalties under the California Invasion of Privacy Act for recorded calls.
  • Private right of actionYes — you can sue
  • Statutory damages$500–$1,500 per call under federal TCPA. Up to $5,000 per call under the California Invasion of Privacy Act (Penal Code § 632.7) for recorded calls without consent.
  • Enforcement agencyCalifornia Attorney General's Office / California Public Utilities Commission

Enforcement

California has been at the forefront of robocall enforcement, with the CPUC and AG pursuing major enforcement actions against telecom carriers facilitating robocalls.

How to Stop Robocalls in California

  • Register on the National Do Not Call Registry.
  • California's two-party consent law means recorded robocalls are also a criminal violation—report them.
  • Use call-blocking features from your carrier (many California carriers offer free tools).
  • Report robocalls to the FTC, FCC, California AG, and CPUC.
  • Be especially vigilant about scams impersonating the IRS, Social Security, or utility companies.

Federal Protections

In addition to California law, you are protected by the federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), which provides $500-$1,500 per illegal robocall, and the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov.

Related Resources

California Attorney General's Office / California Public Utilities Commission

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does California have its own Do Not Call list?

    No, but California has strong separate laws restricting automated dialing devices and requiring consent for prerecorded messages.

  • What makes California's robocall laws strong?

    California's two-party consent law (Penal Code § 632.7) makes it a criminal offense to record calls without all parties' consent, providing additional penalties of up to $5,000 per call.

  • Can I sue for robocalls in California?

    Yes. You can sue under the federal TCPA ($500–$1,500/call) and potentially under California's Invasion of Privacy Act for additional damages.

  • How do I report robocalls in California?

    Report to the FTC, FCC, California AG, and the California Public Utilities Commission.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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