Santa Cruz, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Santa Cruz, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Local Code
- §21.07.010
- State Code
- Civ. Code §1946.2
- Relocation
- One month's rent (full voucher + tenant)
Summary
California Civil Code §1946.2 (AB 1482) provides just-cause eviction protection for covered tenants after 12 months of occupancy. Santa Cruz Code §21.07.010 extends those protections to Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher holders.
Notwithstanding the language of California Civil Code Section 1946.2(e)(9), the no-fault just cause eviction protections of Section 1946.2 shall be applicable to tenants receiving subsidy through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program or the Section 8 Project Based Voucher Program. A full month's rent shall be provided for relocation assistance, including both the tenant's portion of the payment and the voucher amount.
Full Breakdown
AB 1482 requires landlords to state a specific just-cause reason (rent default, breach, criminal activity, refusal to renew, etc.) or no-fault reason (owner move-in, withdrawal, demolition, substantial remodel). No-fault evictions require relocation assistance equal to one month's rent. Section 8 tenants in Santa Cruz get the same protections under §21.07.010, including the relocation assistance covering both tenant and voucher portions.
Violations & Fines
Affirmative defense to unlawful detainer per §21.07.020. Tenants may sue for injunctive relief, actual damages, attorneys' fees, and treble damages for willful violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do AB 1482 protections apply to Section 8?
What counts as relocation assistance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Cruz
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Cruz to another location·View the California rental property rules overview
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