Quick Answer
The Law Office of Zak Fisher represents tenants facing eviction in Santa Monica. Santa Monica has one of the strongest tenant protection regimes in the United States, the Santa Monica Rent Control Charter Amendment governs most multi-unit rentals with strict just-cause requirements, low rent caps, and substantial relocation assistance for no-fault terminations.
Key Takeaways
- Santa Monica has its own Rent Control Charter Amendment, separate from both LARSO and AB 1482.
- Most multi-unit residential rentals built before April 10, 1979 are covered.
- Rent increases capped tightly each year by the Santa Monica Rent Control Board.
- Just-cause is required for all evictions, the list of permissible reasons is narrow.
- No-fault evictions require substantial relocation assistance.
- The Santa Monica Rent Control Board investigates landlord violations and provides tenants with administrative remedies.
Santa Monica Rent Control Charter Amendment
The Santa Monica Rent Control Charter Amendment, adopted by voters in 1979, governs most multi-unit residential rental properties in the City of Santa Monica constructed before April 10, 1979. The Santa Monica Rent Control Board administers the ordinance and provides administrative dispute resolution.
- Rent caps: Annual increases tightly limited by the Rent Control Board, typically among the lowest allowed in California.
- Just-cause: Required for all evictions of covered tenancies. The list of permissible reasons is among the narrowest in California.
- Relocation assistance: Required for no-fault terminations, with amounts set annually by the Rent Control Board.
- Registration: Mandatory annual registration with the Rent Control Board, with significant penalties for non-compliance.
Common Santa Monica eviction scenarios
- Owner move-in claims — particularly subject to challenge given Santa Monica’s strict pretext rules.
- Ellis Act withdrawals — Santa Monica imposes substantial procedural requirements beyond state minimums.
- Substantial remodel claims — must meet strict permit and scope requirements.
- Alleged unpaid rent — often with notice defects or rent control compliance issues.
- Habitability disputes — Santa Monica has aggressive code enforcement, making habitability defenses well-supported.
Where Santa Monica eviction cases are heard
Unlawful detainer cases from Santa Monica are typically filed at the Santa Monica Courthouse, 1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, or at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in DTLA.
What to do if you receive an eviction notice in Santa Monica
- Save the notice and document service.
- Confirm Rent Control coverage via the Santa Monica Rent Control Board’s online registry.
- Check the landlord’s registration status with the Rent Control Board.
- Document any habitability issues.
- Contact a tenant attorney before any deadline expires.
Related guides
- I got served eviction papers, what to do now
- 30/60/90-day termination notices
- Habitability defense
- AB 1482 just-cause
- Looking for a Los Angeles eviction defense attorney? Our main tenant defense page covers the full eviction defense playbook.
- Eviction Defense Information Hub: comprehensive topic index for California tenants.
- What Happens After You File Your Answer
- How Long Does an Eviction Case Take in LA
- Neighborhood guides: Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Long Beach, Hollywood, Downtown LA
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