Takoma Park, MD Rental Property Rules: Just Cause Eviction (2026)

Takoma Park's just cause eviction protections work in tandem with the rent stabilization program under Chapter 6, Article 4 of the city code. A landlord may not bring an action to evict a tenant or refuse to renew a lease except for specifically enumerated just causes. Recognized grounds for eviction include nonpayment of rent, material violation of the lease terms after written notice and opportunity to cure, the landlord's bona fide intention to occupy the unit as a personal residence (owner move-in), permanent withdrawal of the unit from the rental market, substantial damage to the property by the tenant, interference with the comfort and safety of other tenants, the tenant's refusal to agree to a new lease containing terms substantially the same as the prior lease, and condemnation or code violation requiring the unit to be vacated. For owner move-in evictions, the landlord must provide at least 120 days notice and must actually occupy the unit for at least 12 months. If the unit is returned to the rental market within 12 months of an owner move-in eviction, the former tenant has the right of first refusal at the previous rent plus allowable CPI increases. Retaliatory evictions are prohibited — landlords may not evict tenants in retaliation for filing complaints, organizing tenant associations, or exercising rights under the rent stabilization program. Tenants facing eviction should contact COLTA at 301-891-7215 or the Takoma Park Housing Division for assistance. Maryland Legal Aid may also provide representation.