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Free California Eviction Notice

A state-compliant eviction notice (Notice to Quit) for non-payment of rent or lease violations. Includes proper notice periods and legal language. Compliant with Cal. Civ. Code § 1940 et seq..

Attorney-Reviewed Reviewed Mar 2026 Instant PDF

What's Included in Your Eviction Notice

8 key sections — state-compliant for California

Landlord & tenant identification
Rental property address
Specific reason for eviction
Compliance or cure period
Legal consequences for non-compliance
State-specific notice requirements
Date of service & delivery method
Landlord signature
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Disclaimer: This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state for advice on your specific situation. Read full disclaimer.

Free California Eviction Notice Template

Filing an eviction in California starts with serving the proper notice. Our free California eviction notice generator creates a legally compliant Notice to Quit that meets the requirements of Cal. Civ. Code § 1940 et seq.. Competitors charge $19-39 for this exact document — we offer it free.

California Eviction Notice Requirements

California has specific notice period requirements that landlords must follow:

Eviction ReasonNotice Period
Non-Payment of Rent3 days
Lease Violation3 days
General Notice to Quit3 days

How the California Eviction Process Works

  1. Serve Notice: Provide the tenant with this written notice, giving them 3 days (non-payment) or 3 days (lease violation) to cure the issue or vacate.
  2. File Court Action: If the tenant doesn't comply, file an eviction lawsuit (also called an unlawful detainer or forcible entry and detainer) with the local California court.
  3. Court Hearing: Both parties appear before a judge. Bring copies of the lease, this notice, and evidence of the violation.
  4. Writ of Possession: If the court rules in your favor, a writ of possession is issued and the sheriff will enforce the eviction.

What You CANNOT Do in California

Self-help evictions are illegal in California. This means you cannot:

  • Change the locks on the tenant
  • Remove the tenant's belongings
  • Shut off utilities
  • Threaten or intimidate the tenant

Violations can result in significant penalties under California law.

Why Use Our Free California Eviction Notice?

  • Correct notice period (3/3 days) per Cal. Civ. Code § 1940 et seq.
  • Proper legal language accepted by California courts
  • Instant PDF download — no account required
  • 100% free — competitors charge $19-39 for the same document

Frequently Asked Questions: California Eviction Notice

How many days notice do I need to give for eviction in California?

For non-payment of rent, California requires 3 days notice. For lease violations, 3 days notice is required under Cal. Civ. Code § 1940 et seq..

Can I evict a tenant without going to court in California?

No. Self-help evictions are illegal in California. You must follow the legal process: serve notice, file with the court, attend the hearing, and if successful, have the sheriff enforce a writ of possession.

How do I serve an eviction notice in California?

California typically allows service by personal delivery, posting on the door and mailing, or certified mail. Check Cal. Civ. Code § 1940 et seq. for specific service requirements.

Is this California eviction notice template free?

Yes, completely free. Generate your eviction notice with the correct notice period for California, download the PDF, and print it. No account or payment required.