Bakersfield, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Bakersfield, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Local Ordinance
- None: state law only
- Governing Law
- Cal. Civil Code § 1946.2 (AB 1482)
- Threshold
- 12 months continuous occupancy
- No-Fault Relocation
- 1 month's rent (§ 1946.2(d))
- Sunset Date
- January 1, 2030
Summary
Bakersfield has no local just-cause-eviction ordinance. After 12 months of continuous occupancy, most tenants are protected by California's statewide just-cause statute at Cal. Civil Code § 1946.2 (AB 1482). Landlords must state an at-fault or no-fault reason in any termination notice. No-fault evictions require relocation assistance equal to one month's rent.
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.
Full Breakdown
Cal. Civil Code § 1946.2(b) lists at-fault grounds: default in rent, breach of material lease term, nuisance, waste, criminal activity, refusing entry, unauthorized subletting, and failure to renew similar lease terms. No-fault grounds include intent of owner or qualifying family to occupy as primary residence for at least 12 months, withdrawal from the rental market (Ellis-style), government order requiring vacancy for habitability, and intent to demolish or substantially remodel (work of 30+ consecutive days). Under § 1946.2(d), no-fault evictions require relocation assistance equal to one month's rent (paid within 15 days or waived). Exempt units (same § 1947.12 list) include housing under 15 years old, single-family/condo with proper notice, and owner-occupied duplexes. Effective through January 1, 2030.
Violations & Fines
Under Cal. Civil Code § 1946.2(g), an owner's failure to strictly comply renders the termination notice void and creates an affirmative defense in any unlawful detainer action. Wrongful no-fault evictions can also expose landlords to liability for actual damages and, where bad faith is shown, treble damages and attorney fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bakersfield require just cause to evict?
What no-fault reasons can a landlord use in Bakersfield?
What relocation assistance is owed in a no-fault eviction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bakersfield
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