Just Cause Eviction: Castaic vs Santa Monica
How do just cause eviction rules compare between Castaic, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Castaic and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
Unincorporated LA County has its own just cause eviction protections under the Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections Ordinance (effective April 1, 2020). Landlords must demonstrate for-cause or no-fault reasons and file written notice with the county within 5 days of serving tenants.
View full Castaic rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica enforces strict just-cause eviction protections. Tenants may only be evicted for enumerated at-fault or no-fault reasons. No-fault evictions require relocation assistance. Ordinance 2776 (2024) expanded anti-discrimination and harassment protections.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castaic | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Effective | April 1, 2020 | - |
| For-Cause | Lease violation, nuisance, illegal activity | - |
| Notice Filing | 5 days to file with county | - |
| No-Fault | Owner move-in, demolition, etc. | - |
| Just Cause | - | Required for all evictions |
| Relocation | - | Required for no-fault evictions |
| Ord. 2776 | - | 2024 expanded protections |
| Enforcement | - | Rent Control Board |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castaic FAQ
Can a landlord evict me without cause in unincorporated LA County?
No, if you've lived in the unit for 12+ months and the unit is covered by the RSO (built before Feb 1, 1995). Landlords need a specific just cause reason such as non-payment, lease violations, owner move-in, or major renovation.
What is relocation assistance?
For no-fault evictions (owner move-in, renovation, Ellis Act), landlords must pay relocation assistance. Amounts are set by the county and updated periodically. Contact the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs at (800) 593-8222 for current amounts.
Does just cause eviction apply to all rental units?
The county RSO covers units built before February 1, 1995. Newer units are covered by California's AB 1482 (Tenant Protection Act) after 12 months of tenancy. Single-family homes may have exceptions. Contact (800) 593-8222 for details.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can my landlord evict me without a reason?
In units covered by just cause protections, no. Landlords must have a valid reason. Check if your unit is covered under Santa Monica or state just cause requirements.
What is a self-help eviction?
When a landlord tries to force a tenant out by changing locks, removing doors, shutting off utilities, or removing belongings. This is illegal everywhere and tenants can sue for damages.
Compare other topics
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