Illegal status doesn’t skip the process
Not simply by declaring it illegal. Even when a unit is unpermitted, a landlord in California generally must still follow the proper legal eviction process — they cannot just order you out, change the locks, or remove your belongings.
To end your tenancy, the landlord typically must give the required written notice and, if you do not leave, go through the formal court eviction process. The unit's illegal status does not let the landlord skip these steps or use "self-help" tactics, which are themselves illegal.
Sometimes a city discovers an unpermitted unit and orders the landlord to stop using it as a rental, which can lead to the tenancy ending. But even then, there are legal processes involved, and in some areas tenants forced out through no fault of their own may be entitled to relocation help. These rules can vary by location.
If a landlord is trying to push you out of an illegal unit without proper notice or process, that is usually not allowed. A free, confidential review can explain your rights and what proper process requires.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.