Missouri eviction rules for tenants

Notice for unpaid rent

No written notice period is required. The landlord must have demanded the rent, and can then file a 'rent and possession' case right away (RSMo 535.020). You can stop the case by paying all rent owed and court costs on the judgment date; if you pay the money judgment and costs before the judgment becomes final, the eviction is stayed (RSMo 535.160).

Notice for a lease violation

No general statutory notice or right to cure; lease terms apply. For illegal gambling, prostitution or drug activity on the premises, the landlord must give a 10-day notice to vacate before taking possession through the legal process (RSMo 441.020, 441.040).

Ending a month-to-month tenancy

Written notice ending on a rent due date at least one month after it is received, from either side (RSMo 441.060).

Time to respond to an eviction lawsuit

The summons sets a court date no more than 21 business days after it is issued, and must be served at least 4 days before. Go to court on that date. After a judgment you have 10 days to ask to set it aside or ask for a new trial (trial de novo) (RSMo 535.030).

Lockouts and utility shutoffs

A landlord who removes you or your belongings, removes doors or locks, or willfully cuts electric, gas, water or sewer service without a court order (except for health or safety reasons) is guilty of forcible entry and detainer (RSMo 441.233). You can sue under chapter 534; if you win, the court orders you put back in and awards double your damages (RSMo 534.330). Exception: property left after the lawful abandonment process (RSMo 441.065).

Law

RSMo 441.060, 441.233, 534.330, 535.020, 535.030, 535.160

No statewide statute protecting tenants from retaliation.

Notice of a rent increase

no statute; for month-to-month, the landlord can change terms by ending the tenancy with one month's written notice.

Rent control

Cities and counties may not regulate rent amounts, ban source-of-income discrimination, limit security deposits, restrict tenant screening, or require a tenant right of first refusal (RSMo 441.043, expanded August 28, 2025).