CA · EVICT-NTC · Updated August 2026 · Free
California Eviction Notice PDF
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California at a glance: 3-Day Pay or Quit: Required for nonpayment of rent (Cal. CCP § 1161) · 3-Day Cure or Quit: Required for curable lease violations · Just Cause Required: Yes, after 12 months (AB 1482 / Tenant Protection Act)
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Overview
Eviction Notices in California
California has some of the most tenant-protective eviction laws in the country. The state has strict procedural requirements for eviction notices, including specific notice periods and delivery rules under California Code of Civil Procedure § 1161.
California's Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) applies to most residential rentals and requires "just cause" for eviction after the tenant has resided in the unit for 12 months. Most cities also have local rent control and just-cause eviction ordinances that may be even more protective than state law.
Key Facts
California Eviction Notice — Quick Reference
| Requirement | California Rule |
|---|---|
| 3-Day Pay or Quit | Required for nonpayment of rent (Cal. CCP § 1161) |
| 3-Day Cure or Quit | Required for curable lease violations |
| Just Cause Required | Yes, after 12 months (AB 1482 / Tenant Protection Act) |
| 30-Day Notice | Tenancy < 1 year; 60-day notice for tenancy ≥ 1 year |
| Local Rent Control | Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, and others have stricter rules |
Legal Requirements
California Legal Requirements
- 3-day Pay or Quit Notice required before filing for nonpayment of rent.
- 3-day Cure or Quit Notice required for fixable lease violations.
- After 12 months of residency, just cause is required to terminate tenancy (AB 1482).
- Notice must state specific violation, amount owed, or reason for termination.
- Delivery must be: personal service, left with responsible adult + mailed, or posted + mailed.
- COVID-era protections have largely expired but local rules may still apply.
Governing Laws
California Governing Laws
Cal. CCP § 1161(2)
Pay or Quit Notice Mandates
Requires a 3-day written notice stating exact rent due, name, telephone number, address, and availability hours of the payment recipient.
Cal. Civ. Code § 1946.1
Periodic Tenancy Termination Notice
Requires 30 days written notice for tenancies under 1 year, and 60 days written notice for tenancies of 1 year or more.
Cal. Civ. Code § 1946.2
Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482)
Requires just cause for eviction of tenants who have resided in a unit for 12+ months. Limits rent increases and establishes relocation assistance requirements.
Read the full text of these laws at Cornell Law School's California legal resources or your state legislature's official website.
Questions & Answers
California Eviction Notice — Frequently Asked Questions
How many days notice is required for eviction in California?
For nonpayment of rent: 3-day Pay or Quit Notice. For fixable violations: 3-day Cure or Quit Notice. For ending a month-to-month tenancy (no fault): 30 days if tenant lived there less than 1 year; 60 days if 1 year or more.
Does California require just cause for eviction?
Yes, for most residential rentals. The Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) requires just cause after 12 months of residency. Exempt properties include single-family homes (with proper notice), condos, and buildings built within the last 15 years.
What cities in California have stricter eviction protections?
Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Santa Monica, Berkeley, and many other California cities have local rent control and just-cause eviction ordinances that are more protective than state law.