Just Cause Eviction: Berkeley vs Fremont
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Fremont, CA?
Fremont has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley has one of the oldest just-cause eviction ordinances in the US. Landlords must cite a specific legal reason from BMC Chapter 13.76 to terminate a tenancy, and relocation payments apply for no-fault evictions.
View full Berkeley rules βFremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont does not have a local just cause eviction ordinance. Tenants are protected under California AB 1482 (Civil Code 1946.2), which requires just cause to terminate tenancies of 12+ months in covered units.
View full Fremont rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Fremont |
|---|---|---|
| Governing law | BMC Chapter 13.76 | - |
| Agency | Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board | - |
| Relocation payment | Required for no-fault evictions | - |
| Filing required | Notice filed with Rent Board | - |
| Phone | (510) 981-7368 | - |
| Local ordinance | - | None adopted |
| State law | - | AB 1482 / Civil Code 1946.2 |
| Coverage trigger | - | 12 months of occupancy |
| No-fault relocation | - | One month rent |
| Contact | - | (510) 284-4000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can my landlord evict me without a reason in Berkeley?
No. Berkeley requires a specific good cause listed in BMC 13.76. Month-to-month tenancies cannot be terminated at will.
Do I get a relocation payment?
Yes, for no-fault evictions like owner move-in or Ellis Act withdrawal. Amounts are set yearly by the Rent Board and are higher for seniors, disabled, and families with minors.
Fremont FAQ
Does Fremont have its own just cause rules?
No. Fremont has not adopted a local just cause eviction ordinance, so state AB 1482 applies to covered units.
What counts as just cause?
At-fault reasons like nonpayment or lease violations, or no-fault reasons like owner move-in or substantial remodel with proper notice and relocation payments.
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