Grounds for Eviction of Mobile Homeowners in California

In California, mobile home owners enjoy a unique set of protections under the Mobilehome Residency Law (MRL). However, there are specific grounds under which a mobile home owner can be evicted from a mobile home park. Understanding these grounds is crucial for both park owners and residents to ensure compliance with state laws and to maintain a harmonious living environment.

1. Nonpayment of Rent

One of the most common grounds for eviction is the nonpayment of rent. If a mobile home owner fails to pay rent, utility charges, or other fees required by the rental agreement, the park management can issue a notice to pay or quit. The notice typically gives the resident a specified period, usually three days, to pay the overdue amount or vacate the premises.

2. Violation of Park Rules and Regulations

Mobile home parks have established rules and regulations that residents must follow. These rules cover a wide range of issues, including noise levels, maintenance of the mobile home and lot, and conduct within the park. If a resident repeatedly violates these rules, the park management can issue a notice to correct the violation or face eviction. The resident is usually given a reasonable period to rectify the issue.

3. Failure to Comply with State or Local Laws

Residents must comply with all applicable state and local laws. This includes health and safety codes, zoning laws, and other regulations. If a mobile home owner is found to be in violation of these laws and fails to correct the issue after being notified, the park management has grounds for eviction.

4. Substantial Annoyance

If a resident’s behavior constitutes a substantial annoyance to other residents or the park management, eviction may be warranted. This could include activities such as excessive noise, harassment, or other disruptive behaviors that interfere with the peaceful enjoyment of the park by others. The park management must provide evidence of the substantial annoyance and typically must give the resident an opportunity to correct the behavior.

5. Failure to Maintain the Mobile Home

Mobile home owners are responsible for maintaining their homes and the lots they occupy. This includes keeping the home in good repair and ensuring that the lot is free of debris and hazards. If a resident fails to maintain their home or lot, the park management can issue a notice to correct the issue. Continued failure to comply can lead to eviction.

6. Change of Use of the Park

In some cases, a mobile home park may be closed or converted to another use, such as commercial development. When this happens, residents may be evicted. However, California law requires park owners to provide substantial notice and relocation assistance to affected residents. This process is governed by specific regulations to ensure that residents are treated fairly.

7. Condemnation of the Park

If a mobile home park is condemned by a government agency for public use or due to health and safety concerns, residents may be required to vacate. In such cases, the government agency typically provides notice and may offer relocation assistance.

8. Illegal Activities

Engaging in illegal activities within the mobile home park is grounds for eviction. This includes activities such as drug manufacturing or distribution, illegal gambling, or other criminal behaviors. Park management must provide evidence of the illegal activity and follow proper legal procedures to evict the resident.

Conclusion

While mobile homeowners in California have significant protections, there are clear grounds under which eviction can occur. It is essential for both park management to understand these grounds to ensure compliance with the law, as mistakes made in the process can be costly.

Please contact Lynx Legal with any questions regarding the above.  We have handled 13,000+ evictions over the past 15 years, many of them involving mobile home parks.  We can be reached at 888-441-2355 or info@lynxlegal.com.  Our experienced staff is standing by to complete your intake or answer any inquiries you may have about the process.