When a California tenant falls behind on rent, state law requires landlords to serve a written 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit before filing for eviction. Under Code of Civil Procedure Section 1161(2), the notice must state the exact amount of rent owed and provide the name, phone number, and address (or hours) where the tenant can make payment in person. The tenant then has three days — excluding weekends and judicial holidays — to pay in full or vacate.
If the tenant does neither, the landlord may proceed with an unlawful detainer (eviction) action. Getting the notice right matters: California courts are strict about defective notices, and an incorrect rent amount, missing payment instructions, or improper service can force a landlord to start over.
Use the fillable PDF below to generate a compliant notice: enter the tenant and property details, the rent amount and period owed, your payment instructions, and select how the notice was served. Print it, sign it, and keep a copy along with proof of service for your records.
California 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
Free fillable PDF · Code of Civil Procedure Section 1161(2)
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Get LeaseConnectProFrequently Asked Questions
How many days does a California tenant have to pay rent after receiving this notice?
Three days, not counting Saturdays, Sundays, or judicial holidays, per Code of Civil Procedure Section 1161(2).
What must the notice include?
The exact amount of rent due, and the name, telephone number, and address where the tenant can pay in person, along with the days and hours payment is accepted. If electronic payment is an option, that must be included too.
What happens if the tenant doesn't pay or move out in time?
The landlord may file an unlawful detainer lawsuit to recover possession of the property, along with unpaid rent, damages, and court costs.
Can a landlord evict without serving this notice first?
No. Proper service of a compliant 3-day notice is a required first step before filing an unlawful detainer action for nonpayment of rent.
For required notice details, service methods, and common errors, read our California 3-Day Notice guide.
This template and page are for general informational purposes and do not constitute legal advice. Check applicable local ordinances and consult a licensed California attorney for guidance specific to your property.