Illegal utility shutoffs and your rights
No. A California landlord generally cannot shut off your water to force you out or pressure you — that is an illegal "self-help" eviction, even if you are behind on rent. Cutting off essential utilities to remove a tenant is prohibited.
Landlords are not allowed to shut off services like water, gas, or electricity to make a tenant leave or to retaliate for asserting rights. This is different from a brief, temporary shutoff for a genuine repair, which should be short and reasonable and usually comes with notice.
If your landlord deliberately turned off your water to pressure you, that can violate the law and may give you the right to take action. Keep records of when the water was shut off and any messages about it. If your landlord shut off your water, 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.