How many days notice does a landlord need to give for non-payment of rent in California?

In California, a landlord must give 3 days notice to pay or quit before filing for eviction due to non-payment of rent. This is governed by California Civil Code §§ 1940–1954.05 + Code of Civil Procedure §§ 1159–1179a.

What is the no-cause notice period for landlords in California?

In California, landlords must provide 60 days notice to terminate a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

What are the valid grounds for eviction in California?

California recognizes the following grounds for eviction: Non-payment of rent; Lease violation; Nuisance; Illegal activity; Owner move-in (just cause after 12 months); Substantial remodel (just cause).

California Landlord-Tenant Law

Q: Is there rent control in California?

California has rent control provisions. AB 1482 (2020) caps rent increases at 5% + CPI (max 10%) for covered units 15+ years old. Many cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Santa Monica) have stronger local ordinances.

Tribunal: Superior Court (Unlawful Detainer)

3 Days — Pay or Quit

60 Days — No-Cause Notice

3 Days — Cure or Quit

Notice Periods

Situation	Notice Required
Non-payment of rent	3 days to pay or quit
Month-to-month termination (no cause)	60 days
Lease violation (cure or quit)	3 days

Security Deposit

As of 2024, maximum 1 month's rent for unfurnished units (AB 12, Civ. Code § 1950.5).

Grounds for Eviction

Non-payment of rent
Lease violation
Nuisance
Illegal activity
Owner move-in (just cause after 12 months)
Substantial remodel (just cause)

Rent Control

Rent Control Applies

AB 1482 (2020) caps rent increases at 5% + CPI (max 10%) for covered units 15+ years old. Many cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Santa Monica) have stronger local ordinances.

Electronic Signatures

U.S. ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. §7001) + state UETA adoption

Electronic signatures on leases and notices are valid in California. Generate and e-sign a form →

Governing Statute

California Civil Code §§ 1940–1954.05 + Code of Civil Procedure §§ 1159–1179a

Read the full statute →

This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.