What is the Landlord Fairness Code?
The Landlord Fairness Code is a local law in the City of Tacoma. It became law in 2023. The law explains rules that landlords and tenants must follow. For example, landlords must give tenants certain kinds of notices regarding their tenancy. he Landlord Fairness Code also says whether and when landlords can evict tenants during cold weather months and during the school year for violating their lease.
What is the affordable housers exemption?
In December 2025, the Tacoma City Council changed the Landlord Fairness Code. The change says that some landlords who provide affordable housing, like Tacoma Housing Authority, may evict tenants during cold weather months and during the school year if the tenant breaks their lease. But they can only do this if they have given tenants prior notice.
I got a notice from Tacoma Housing Authority about the Landlord Fairness Code. Am I being evicted?
After the Landlord Fairness Code was changed in December 2025, Tacoma Housing Authority sent a notice to all its tenants. The notice explains that THA may start an eviction at any time of the year if the tenant breaks their lease. This notice does not mean you are being evicted and it does not say you have broken your lease. If you are in violation of your lease or program requirements, then you will receive a separate notice.
Where can you learn more?
- Renting in Tacoma | City of Tacoma
- You can also contact Northwest Justice Project (206-464-1519) or Tacoma Pro Bono ((253) 572-5134) for support or more information.