Illegal utility shutoffs and your rights
No. A California landlord generally cannot shut off your heat or gas to pressure you or force you out — that is an illegal utility shutoff, even if you owe rent. Deliberately cutting off essential services to remove a tenant is prohibited.
Landlords are not allowed to shut off utilities like gas, electricity, or the heating supply to make a tenant leave or to retaliate for asserting rights. This is different from a brief, necessary shutoff for a genuine repair, which should be short, reasonable, and usually announced ahead of time.
If your landlord intentionally cut your heat or gas to pressure you, that can violate the law and may give you the right to take action. Keep records of when it happened and any messages about it. If your landlord shut off your heat, talk to an attorney promptly — a free review can help you understand your options.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.