Altadena, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Altadena, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- LA County Code Ch. 8.52
- No-Fault Relocation
- 2 months' rent (3 if vulnerable)
- Statewide Backstop
- AB 1482 / Civ. Code 1946.2
Summary
Tenants in Altadena covered by the LA County RSTPO can be evicted only for an enumerated 'just cause', non-payment, lease violation, nuisance, owner move-in, withdrawal from market (Ellis Act), or substantial remodel, with relocation assistance for no-fault terminations.
1946.2. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, 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. If any additional adult tenants are added to the lease before an existing tenant has continuously and lawfully occupied the residential real property for 24 months, then this subdivision shall only apply if either of the following are satisfied: (1) All of the tenants have continuously and lawfully occupied the residential real property for 12 months or more. (2) One or more tenants have continuously and lawfully occupied the residential real property for 24 months or more. (b) For purposes of th
Full Breakdown
The LA County RSTPO (Ch. 8.52) requires just cause for eviction of tenants in covered units. At-fault causes include non-payment of rent (after 3-day notice to pay or quit), material lease breach, nuisance, criminal activity, and refusal to renew under same terms. No-fault causes include owner/family move-in, removal from rental market (Ellis Act), demolition or substantial remodel, and compliance with government order. No-fault evictions require relocation assistance: typically 2 months' rent (or 3 months if senior/disabled/with minor children) plus a permanent rent registration. AB 1482 (Cal. Civ. Code 1946.2) provides a similar statewide just-cause framework that covers most other rentals.
Violations & Fines
Wrongful eviction creates a tenant cause of action with treble damages and attorney's fees under Ch. 8.52 and Civ. Code 1946.2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord evict me without cause in Altadena?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Altadena
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Just Cause Eviction in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle just cause eviction.