Los Angeles County, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Los Angeles County, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- County Code Ch. 8.52
- Effective date
- April 1, 2020
- Nonpayment threshold
- Two months' HUD fair-market rent
- Notice filing deadline
- 5 days after service
- Max administrative fine
- $1,000 per violation per day
Summary
Landlords in unincorporated Los Angeles County can only terminate an occupied tenancy in a covered rental unit by citing a specific At-Fault or No-Fault reason under the county's Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections ordinance -- never a no-reason notice.
A Landlord may terminate a Tenancy of an occupied Fully or Partially Covered Rental Unit, only if the Landlord can demonstrate either an At-Fault or No-Fault termination. ... The Landlord must serve a written notice ... that indicates at least one At-Fault or No-Fault reason.
Full Breakdown
County Code Chapter 8.52 bars no-cause evictions in unincorporated LA County: a landlord must cite an At-Fault reason (unpaid rent exceeding two months' HUD fair-market rent, an uncured lease violation, nuisance, illegal use) or a No-Fault reason (owner or family move-in, Ellis Act withdrawal, government order) in the written termination notice, file a copy with the county's Department within five days of serving the tenant, and pay relocation assistance for no-fault terminations. Institutional housing, government-owned housing, transient hotel stays, owner-occupied shared housing, and vacant units are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Violating landlords face administrative fines up to $1,000 per day from the county Department, civil penalties up to $1,000, misdemeanor charges up to $1,000 and six months in jail, and tenants gain an affirmative defense against unlawful detainer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to the City of Los Angeles?
Can a landlord evict just by giving notice with no reason?
Do tenants get relocation help for no-fault evictions?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California rental property rules overview
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