Just cause eviction rules in San Mateo County, CA — sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances — list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Unincorporated San Mateo County applies California's statewide just-cause eviction protections under AB 1482 (Civil Code §1946.2). After 12 months of tenancy, landlords must state an at-fault or no-fault reason. No-fault evictions require one month's rent in relocation assistance.
Tenants in unincorporated San Mateo County (North Fair Oaks, West Menlo Park, Emerald Hills, Midcoast, Coastside) are covered by California Civil Code §1946.2 just-cause eviction after 12 months of continuous occupancy (24 months if any tenant has lived there less than 12). At-fault causes include: nonpayment of rent, material lease breach, nuisance, criminal activity, assigning/subletting without permission, and refusing lawful entry. No-fault causes include owner or qualifying relative move-in (must occupy 12+ months), withdrawal from rental market (Ellis Act), government-ordered vacancy, and substantial remodel requiring permits and 30+ days vacancy. No-fault evictions require relocation assistance equal to one month's rent OR a waiver of the final month's rent. Owner move-in requires written notice naming the occupant and the relationship. Exemptions mirror AB 1482 rent cap exemptions (new construction under 15 years, single-family homes if properly noticed, etc.).
Wrongful eviction: tenant may recover actual damages, treble damages for willful violation, and attorneys' fees under Civil Code §1946.2(h). No-fault without relocation assistance: eviction void. Retaliatory eviction prohibited under Civil Code §1942.5 (treble damages possible).
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See how San Mateo County's just cause eviction rules stack up against other locations.
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