California Just-cause eviction

Does a landlord need just cause to evict in California?

Yes, statewide (Tenant Protection Act). Once a tenant has lived in a unit lawfully for 12 months, the owner may end the tenancy only for an at-fault or no-fault just cause stated in the notice. Some housing is exempt, a stricter local ordinance can apply instead, and the section is set to repeal on January 1, 2030. Code text: "after a tenant has continuously and lawfully occupied a residential real property for 12 months, the owner of the residential real property shall not terminate a tenancy without just cause, which shall be stated in the written notice to terminate tenancy."

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1946.2(a), (g), (n) (Browser transcription) · last checked 2026-10-16