Baytown, TX Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)

Baytown has no local just-cause eviction ordinance. All evictions are governed by Texas Property Code Chapter 24 (Forcible Entry and Detainer) and Chapter 92 (Residential Tenancies). For month-to-month tenancies, either party may terminate with written notice given at least one rental period before the date of termination. For most monthly leases this means 30 days notice. No reason is required. For fixed-term leases, the tenancy ends at lease expiration with no obligation to renew. For nonpayment of rent, landlords must give a 3-day written notice to vacate unless the lease provides a different period. For lease violations, notice requirements depend on the lease terms. All eviction lawsuits are filed in the Harris County Justice Court. Self-help evictions are prohibited under Texas Property Code Section 92.0081 — landlords may not change locks, remove doors, interrupt utilities, or seize personal property to force a tenant out. Tenants may file a complaint about unlawful lockouts with the Baytown Police Department at (281) 422-8371.