Gov. Code 12965(b) is an exception to the normal cost provisions of CCP 1032. Hence, when, as in this case, the plaintiff loses her FEHA claims but prevails on other claims, she is not entitled to recover costs incurred solely in relation to the FEHA claims. Also, since the total recovery in this case was less than the amount that could have been awarded her in a limited civil case, the trial court has discretion to deny all or a portion of her costs under CCP 1033(a).