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Free California Notice
to Vacate Template

Last reviewed July 2026

Written by LawLease Editorial

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California Notice to Vacate

Ending a month-to-month tenancy in California takes written notice from whichever side is leaving. The period is set by statute. Here’s what California’s says.

California rules at a glance

California rules for a Notice to Vacate
Month-to-month, tenancy under 1 year30 days. Landlord and tenant each give 30 days’ notice when the tenant has lived there under a year.Civ. Code §1946.1
Landlord, tenancy 1 year or more60 days. The landlord gives 60 days’ notice once the tenant has lived there a year or more — and after 12 months also needs a statutory “just cause” (§1946.2).Civ. Code §1946.1
Tenant, any length of tenancy30 days. A tenant gives 30 days’ notice either way.Civ. Code §1946.1
Week-to-week7 days. 7 days’ notice from either party.Civ. Code §1946

California Notice to Vacate FAQs

How much notice does a landlord need to end a month-to-month tenancy in California?

30 days if the tenant has lived there under a year, and 60 days if a year or more; a tenant gives 30 days either way. After 12 months, the landlord also needs a valid “just cause” under the Tenant Protection Act, not just the notice (§§1946.1, 1946.2).

More California landlord documents

Notice to Vacate in other states

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