Dallas County, TX Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Dallas County, TX, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Just Cause
- Not required
- State Law
- TX Property Code Ch. 24
- Notice
- 3-day notice to vacate
- Self-Help Eviction
- Prohibited (Section 92.0081)
Summary
No just-cause eviction protections. Texas is a landlord-friendly state with no county or state just-cause eviction requirements. TX Property Code Chapter 24 governs eviction procedures. Landlords may terminate at-will tenancies with proper notice.
Sec. 24.005. NOTICE REQUIRED BEFORE FILING CERTAIN EVICTION SUITS. (a) If the occupant is a tenant under a written lease or oral rental agreement, the landlord must give a tenant who defaults or holds over beyond the end of the rental term or renewal period at least three days' written notice to vacate the premises before the landlord files a forcible detainer suit, unless the parties have contracted for a shorter or longer notice period in a written lease or agreement.
Full Breakdown
There are no just-cause eviction protections in unincorporated Dallas County or anywhere in Texas. Texas Property Code Chapter 24 governs forcible entry and detainer (eviction) procedures. Landlords may terminate month-to-month tenancies with proper notice (typically 30 days unless lease specifies otherwise per TX Property Code Section 91.001). For fixed-term leases, the lease terms govern. Landlords must follow the statutory eviction process through Justice Court: 3-day notice to vacate, then file forcible detainer suit. Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings) are prohibited under TX Property Code Section 92.0081. Counties have no authority to impose just-cause eviction requirements.
Violations & Fines
Illegal self-help eviction: TX Property Code Section 92.0081 civil remedies. Landlord must use court eviction process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my landlord evict me without a reason?
How much notice does my landlord have to give?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas County to another location·View the Texas rental property rules overview
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