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Pasadena, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Just cause eviction rules in Pasadena, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.

Key Facts

Just Causes
11 enumerated (7 at-fault, 4 no-fault)
Filing
3 days to file with RSD
Relocation
Required for no-fault evictions
Authority
Article XVIII (Measure H 2022)

Summary

Pasadena's Fair and Equitable Housing Charter Amendment (Article XVIII, Measure H 2022) requires just cause for eviction. 11 enumerated reasons: 7 at-fault and 4 no-fault. Termination notice must be filed with Rent Stabilization Dept within 3 days. Relocation assistance required for no-fault evictions.

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. (b) For purposes of this section, "just cause" means either of the following: (1) At-fault just cause, which means any of the following: (A) Default in the payment of rent. (B) A breach of a material term of the lease, as described in paragraph (3) of Section 1161 of the Code of Civil Procedure, including, but not limited to, violation of a provision of the lease after being issued a written notice to correct the violation.

Source: Pasadena City Charter Article XVIII - Fair and Equitable Housing Charter AmendmentView official code

Full Breakdown

Pasadena may enforce just cause eviction protections that require landlords to have a legitimate reason to evict tenants. Valid causes typically include non-payment of rent, lease violations, nuisance behavior, illegal activity, owner move-in, and substantial renovation requiring vacancy. No-fault evictions for owner move-in or renovation may require relocation assistance payments. Tenants have the right to contest evictions in court. Just cause requirements often apply after a tenant has occupied the unit for a minimum period, typically 12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?
In units covered by just cause protections, no. Landlords must have a valid reason. Check if your unit is covered under Pasadena or state just cause requirements.
What is a self-help eviction?
When a landlord tries to force a tenant out by changing locks, removing doors, shutting off utilities, or removing belongings. This is illegal everywhere and tenants can sue for damages.

Sources & Official References

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Just Cause Eviction in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Los Angeles County handle just cause eviction.

Lancaster, CA
Some Restrictions
Norwalk, CA
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Palmdale, CA
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Altadena, CA
Significant Restrictions
Burbank, CA
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Glendale, CA
Significant Restrictions
Los Angeles, CA
Significant Restrictions
Inglewood, CA
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