San Diego County, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in San Diego County, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- State Law
- AB 1482. Tenant Protection Act
- Applies After
- 12 months of occupancy
- Relocation
- 1 month rent for no-fault evictions
- Exempt
- Single-family (individual owner + notice), <15 yr buildings
- Notice
- Must state specific cause
Summary
Tenants in unincorporated San Diego County are protected by California's Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) which requires just cause for eviction after 12 months of occupancy. At-fault and no-fault just cause provisions apply. Relocation assistance required for no-fault evictions.
rty [1940 - 1954.071] ( Chapter 2 enacted 1872. ) 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.
Full Breakdown
California's Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482, Civil Code §1946.2) applies to most rental properties in unincorporated San Diego County. After a tenant has occupied the property for 12 months, the landlord must have just cause to terminate the tenancy. At-fault causes include nonpayment of rent, lease violations, criminal activity, and refusal to sign a new lease with similar terms. No-fault causes include owner move-in, substantial renovation, and withdrawal from the rental market. No-fault evictions require relocation assistance equal to one month's rent. Exemptions include single-family homes owned by individuals (with proper notice), properties less than 15 years old, and certain other categories. Landlords must provide the specific cause in the termination notice.
Violations & Fines
Violations of just cause requirements may render eviction notices void. Tenants can challenge improper evictions in court. Landlords may face damages for retaliatory evictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does just cause eviction apply in unincorporated San Diego County?
What are valid reasons for eviction under AB 1482?
Do I have to pay relocation assistance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego County to another location·View the California rental property rules overview
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