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πŸ”‘ Rental Property Rules/Just Cause Eviction

Just Cause Eviction: Long Beach vs Santa Monica

How do just cause eviction rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Santa Monica, CA?

Long Beach and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.

Long Beach, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

Long Beach enforces a Just Cause for Termination of Tenancies ordinance under LBMC Ch. 8.99 (adopted 2020). Landlords must have an enumerated at-fault or no-fault reason. No-fault terminations require relocation assistance of 1 month's rent or $4,500 for demolition/remodel.

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Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

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 β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactLong BeachSanta Monica
CodeLBMC Ch. 8.99-
Adopted2020-
Relocation$4,500 or 2 months rent (demolition)Required for no-fault evictions
Other No-Fault1 month's rent relocation-
Just Cause-Required for all evictions
Ord. 2776-2024 expanded protections
Enforcement-Rent Control Board

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Long Beach 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 Long Beach 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.

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.

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