📂 California Tenant Notice to Vacate

California Tenant Notice to Vacate — 30-Day Requirement

In California, tenants on month-to-month leases must provide 30 days written
notice before vacating. Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1946, leaving without proper notice can make the
tenant liable for rent through the end of the required notice period, even if they
have already moved out. 30 days if tenancy under 1 year; 60 days if over 1 year. This form uses the standard 30-day period.

When to Use This Form

Use this notice when you are ending a month-to-month tenancy by choice.
For fixed-term leases, check your lease for early termination procedures — most
fixed-term leases require you to either fulfill the lease term or negotiate an
early termination with the landlord.

Providing a Forwarding Address

Include your forwarding address in this notice. Most states require landlords
to mail the security deposit and itemization to your last known address — providing
a forwarding address here starts that clock and ensures you receive your deposit
return promptly.

Keep Proof of Delivery

Deliver this notice by certified mail, personal delivery, or email with a read
receipt. Keep a copy and proof of delivery. If a dispute arises later about whether
proper notice was given, your delivery record is the evidence that protects you.