Texas Eviction Procedure Preempts Local Just-Cause Rules

Property Code Chapter 24 governs forcible entry and detainer (eviction) actions in Texas. A landlord may terminate a month-to-month tenancy or decline to renew a fixed-term lease for any non-discriminatory reason after giving the statutory notice — generally three days to vacate before filing suit, unless the lease specifies otherwise. Section 92.001 et seq. provides additional landlord-tenant rights, but neither statute imposes a 'just cause' standard. Texas courts treat eviction procedure as exclusively statutory, so local 'good cause' or 'just cause' eviction ordinances are preempted. Federal protections (e.g., Fair Housing) and CARES Act notice rules may still apply.

Local just-cause ordinances are unenforceable in Texas justice courts. Improper notice or self-help eviction by a landlord can result in tenant damages of one month's rent plus $1,000 and attorney's fees.