Not legal advice. This site is a general reference for landlords. Laws change, and local rules, lease terms, and individual facts matter. Always check the official source linked on each fact, and talk to a licensed attorney in your state before you act.

Missouri landlord-tenant law

3 of 7 topics verified

Local rules also apply in: Kansas City, St. Louis

Quick facts

TopicAt a glance
Security deposit limitNo more than two months' rent.
Deposit return deadlineWithin 30 days after the tenancy ends: return the full deposit, or an itemized list of damages for any amount kept.
Notice to enterNot yet verified
Rent increase noticeNot yet verified
Late feesNot yet verified
Eviction notice (nonpayment)Not yet verified
Rent control / state preemptionPreempted.

Details & sources

Security deposit limit

No more than two months' rent.

Verified Source: RSMo § 535.300(1) · last checked 2026-10-15

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Deposit return deadline

Within 30 days after the tenancy ends: return the full deposit, or an itemized list of damages for any amount kept.

Verified Source: RSMo § 535.300(3) · last checked 2026-10-15

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Notice to enter

Not yet verified

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Rent increase notice

Not yet verified

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Late fees

Not yet verified

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Eviction notice (nonpayment)

Not yet verified

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Rent control / state preemption

Preempted. No county or city, including charter cities, may enact, maintain or enforce an ordinance that regulates the amount of rent charged for privately owned residential property.

Verified Source: RSMo § 441.043 · last checked 2026-10-15

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Cities in Missouri with their own rules

Nearby states

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