Santa Monica, CA Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)
Just cause eviction rules in Santa Monica, CA, sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances, list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
Key Facts
- Just Cause
- Required for all evictions
- Relocation
- Required for no-fault evictions
- Ord. 2776
- 2024 expanded protections
- Enforcement
- Rent Control Board
Summary
Santa Monica enforces strict just-cause eviction protections. Tenants may only be evicted for enumerated at-fault or no-fault reasons. No-fault evictions require relocation assistance. Ordinance 2776 (2024) expanded anti-discrimination and harassment protections.
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.
Full Breakdown
Santa Monica 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?
What is a self-help eviction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California rental property rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Just Cause Eviction in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle just cause eviction.