Just Cause Eviction: Berkeley vs Oakland
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Oakland, CA?
Berkeley and Oakland have similar restriction levels.
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 →Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Oakland has one of the strongest just-cause eviction ordinances in the country under OMC Chapter 8.22 (Measure EE). Landlords must demonstrate one of the enumerated just causes to evict a tenant. The ordinance covers virtually all residential rental units in Oakland.
View full Oakland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Governing Code | - | OMC Chapter 8.22 (Measure EE) |
| Coverage | - | Nearly all residential rentals |
| Just Causes | - | Enumerated grounds required |
| Relocation | - | Required for no-fault evictions |
| Penalty | - | Treble damages for wrongful eviction |
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.
Oakland FAQ
Can a landlord evict without cause in Oakland?
No. Oakland's Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance requires landlords to demonstrate one of the enumerated just causes before evicting. This applies to virtually all residential rentals.
What relocation assistance is required?
Landlords must pay relocation assistance for no-fault evictions (owner move-in, substantial renovation, Ellis Act). Amounts vary based on tenant circumstances and are updated periodically.
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