Missouri 3-Day Eviction Notice Overview
Missouri Does Not Use 3-Day Notices
Missouri requires a No Fixed Period notice under RSMo 535.010. A 3-day notice is not valid in Missouri.
Missouri's eviction law is found in RSMo Chapter 535 (Landlord and Tenant). Missouri is unusual in that it does not require a specific number of days' notice before filing for eviction due to non-payment. The landlord simply needs to demand rent and, if unpaid, can file a 'rent and possession' action in Associate Circuit Court. However, most Missouri attorneys recommend providing at least a written demand letter. For lease violations, the lease terms typically govern the notice period.
No Fixed Period
Notice period
$25-$50
Filing fee
RSMo
Governing law
2-4 Wks
Court process
Missouri's Actual Notice Period
Missouri requires a no fixed period notice under RSMo 535.010. Using the wrong notice period is one of the most common grounds for dismissal in Associate Circuit Court.
No Fixed Period Notice (RSMo 535.010)
The landlord must deliver a written notice giving the tenant the required time to pay rent or vacate. The notice must state the exact amount of past-due rent. If the tenant pays in full within the notice period, the notice is void and the tenancy continues.
Missouri Legal Requirements
- Written Notice: Must be in writing under Missouri law
- Rent Amount: State the exact dollar amount of past-due rent owed
- Notice Period: Allow no fixed period for the tenant to pay or vacate
- Property Address: Include the complete rental property address
- Tenant Names: Include all tenants named on the lease agreement
- Proper Service: Use an approved service method under Missouri law
How to Serve an Eviction Notice in Missouri
Personal Delivery
Hand the notice directly to the tenant. Use a witness or process server to document delivery
Posting and Mailing
If personal delivery fails, post the notice on the door and mail a copy by certified or first-class mail
Wait the Full Notice Period
Allow the full no fixed period to pass. The day of service does not count as day one
File in Associate Circuit Court
After the notice period expires without payment, file the eviction complaint with proof of service
Missouri Eviction Timeline
After the notice period expires, the landlord files in Associate Circuit Court. The court issues a summons and schedules a hearing, typically within 7 to 21 days. If the landlord prevails, the court enters a judgment for possession, and the sheriff or constable executes the writ.
Total timeline from initial notice to physical removal is typically 2-4 wks for uncontested cases. Contested cases with defenses, counterclaims, or appeals can add several weeks to the process.
Missouri Court Fees & Costs
| Fee / Cost | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Court Filing Fee | $25-$50 |
| Service of Process | $25 - $75 |
| Writ of Possession | $30 - $75 |
| Attorney Fees (if hired) | $500 - $2,500 |
Sample Missouri Eviction Notice
Below is a preview of a Missouri-compliant notice under RSMo 535.010.
NO FIXED PERIOD NOTICE TO PAY RENT OR VACATE
STATE OF MISSOURI
Pursuant to RSMo 535.010
TO TENANT(S):
Name: [Tenant Full Name]
PREMISES:
Address: [Address, City, MO ZIP]
RENT DUE:
$[Amount] for [Period]
MISSOURI COMPLIANCE
This notice complies with RSMo 535.010 requiring a No Fixed Period notice period.