Louisiana 60-Day Notice Overview
Louisiana does not require a 60-day notice for standard residential tenancy terminations. Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2728, a month-to-month tenancy can be terminated with just 10 calendar days notice before the end of the monthly period. This makes Louisiana one of the very shortest notice states in the nation. Louisiana\'s landlord-tenant law derives primarily from the Civil Code rather than a separate landlord-tenant statute.
Louisiana\'s legal framework is unique among U.S. states because it is based on the Napoleonic Code (civil law) rather than English common law. The state has no statewide landlord-tenant act, no rent control, no just-cause eviction requirements, and minimal statutory tenant protections. Eviction proceedings (called Rule for Possession) are handled quickly through City Courts and Justice of the Peace Courts. Despite the very short 10-day statutory minimum, many Louisiana landlords provide 60 days as a courtesy for long-term tenants.
10 Days
Statutory default
$75-$150
Court filing fees
Written
Notice required
1-3 wks
Court process
When a 60-Day Notice Applies in Louisiana
Since Louisiana's statutory default for month-to-month termination is 10 days, understanding when a 60-day notice is actually required or advisable is essential for landlords.
Lease-Required Extended Notice
Many professionally managed properties in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Metairie include 60-day non-renewal clauses in their leases. When the lease specifies 60 days, the contractual obligation overrides the 10-day statutory minimum under La. C.C. Art. 2728.
Louisiana Housing Corporation Programs
Federal Section 8 programs administered through the Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) and local PHAs like the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) frequently require 60-90 days notice. Post-Katrina housing programs in the Gulf Coast region may also mandate extended notice.
New Orleans and Tight Markets
In New Orleans\'s tight rental market — particularly in the French Quarter, Marigny, Garden District, and other popular neighborhoods — finding replacement housing within 10 days is nearly impossible. Providing 60 days allows tenants time to secure housing in a market with limited affordable inventory.
Louisiana Legal Requirements
Louisiana's landlord-tenant statutes establish specific requirements for termination notices that must be followed precisely.
Louisiana Civil Law Framework
Louisiana\'s legal system is based on civil law (Napoleonic Code), not common law like other states. Landlord-tenant relationships are governed by the Louisiana Civil Code (Articles 2668-2729) rather than a separate landlord-tenant act. Many common law concepts from other states do not apply. Landlords should consult Louisiana-specific legal resources rather than relying on general landlord-tenant guidance from other jurisdictions.
Notice Content Requirements
- Written Notice: La. C.C. Art. 2728 requires written notice for termination. Oral notice may be challenged in Louisiana courts
- Tenant and Property ID: Include all tenant names and the complete property address including parish (Louisiana uses parishes rather than counties)
- Termination Date: State the exact date at least 60 days from service, aligned with the end of the monthly rental period
- Landlord Contact: Include the landlord or property manager name, Louisiana mailing address, and telephone number
- Security Deposit Reference: La. R.S. 9:3251 requires return of the security deposit within 30 days of termination. Deposits are capped at one month\'s rent
How to Serve a 60-Day Eviction Notice in Louisiana
Proper service is critical in Louisiana. If the landlord cannot prove the notice was properly delivered, the court will dismiss the eviction action.
Prepare the Notice
Draft using a Louisiana-specific template referencing La. C.C. Art. 2728. Include all tenant names, property address, and the 60-day termination date
Personal Delivery (Preferred)
Hand-deliver to the tenant at the rental premises. Louisiana courts prefer personal service. Use a process server or witness for documentation
Certified Mail Alternative
Send via certified mail with return receipt requested. Louisiana accepts mailed service, though personal delivery is preferred for notice
Complete Proof of Service
Document date, time, method, and location of service. Keep certified mail receipts and return cards for court proceedings
File Rule for Possession
After 60 days expire without the tenant vacating, file an eviction action in City or Justice of the Peace Court where the property is located
Louisiana Eviction Timeline
Louisiana\'s eviction process uses a Rule for Possession (La. C.C.P. Art. 4701-4735) filed in City Court (municipalities) or Justice of the Peace Court (rural areas). After filing, the court sets a hearing date, typically within 3-10 days. Louisiana\'s eviction process is among the fastest in the nation.
At the hearing, the judge reviews the notice, proof of service, and any tenant defenses. If the landlord prevails, the court issues a judgment for possession. The tenant may have 24 hours to vacate in some Louisiana parishes. The constable or marshal enforces removal if the tenant remains.
Total court timeline: 1-3 weeks uncontested, 3-6 weeks contested. Orleans Parish (New Orleans) has a heavier caseload but still moves relatively quickly. Combined with the 60-day notice period, the full process spans 9-14 weeks. Self-help evictions are prohibited under Louisiana law.
Louisiana Filing Fees & Costs
Eviction costs in Louisiana vary by county and court type. Below are typical expenses.
| Fee / Cost | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| City Court Filing Fee | $75 - $150 |
| Service of Process (Constable) | $25 - $60 |
| Attorney Fees | $400 - $2,000 |
| Judgment for Possession | $25 - $50 |
| Constable Enforcement | $50 - $150 |
Sample Louisiana 60-Day Notice
Below is a preview of our Louisiana-specific 60-day termination notice template.
60-DAY NOTICE OF TERMINATION
STATE OF LOUISIANA
Pursuant to La. C.C. Art. 2728
LANDLORD / PROPERTY OWNER:
Name: [Full Legal Name]
Address: [Louisiana Mailing Address]
TENANT(S):
Name(s): [All Tenant Names]
Rental Address: [Full Property Address]
NOTICE OF TERMINATION:
You are hereby notified that your tenancy at the above premises will terminate on[Date — 60 days from service]. You must vacate and surrender possession by that date.
LOUISIANA COMPLIANCE NOTE
Your security deposit will be returned within 30 days of vacating per La. R.S. 9:3251, with an itemized list of any deductions. Please provide a forwarding address upon vacating.