The Eviction Process in Palm Beach County

As of March 31, 2025, Palm Beach County’s housing landscape has evolved significantly since 2018, when there were around 689,908 housing units, with 31.4% tenant-occupied. Today, estimates suggest there are about 574,083 housing units, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau, with roughly 151,300 renter-occupied homes, reflecting a steady renter rate of 29.11% from 2022 figures. This shift highlights the county’s growth, driven by a population nearing 1.53 million in 2023. With around 14,000 eviction filings annually, per the Eviction Tracking System, the potential for tens of thousands of evictions remains a reality. Thankfully, the Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller streamlines the process, making it straightforward for landlords to navigate. This efficiency is a lifeline in a county facing an affordable housing crunch, as noted in a 2025 FIU study, which points to a shortfall of nearly 200,000 units. For renters, this means ongoing challenges, while landlords benefit from a system that keeps property management manageable. Curious about housing support? Check out the Palm Beach County Housing Authority for more resources.

Step 1: Serve the Three-Day Notice to Tenants

Begin with a 3-day notice for nonpayment, delivered by mail, hand, or posted on the property, as required by Florida Statute 83.56(3). It must demand rent only—exclude late fees—and give three business days (excluding weekends, holidays, and delivery day) to pay or vacate. Errors here can delay your case, so precision is key.

Step 2: Pay Fees and File Paperwork

If the tenant doesn’t pay, file with the Palm Beach County Clerk. Submit: Complaint for Tenant Eviction, a copy of the 3-day notice, and the lease (if applicable). Fees are $185 for eviction only, $300 if claiming damages over $2,500, plus $40 per tenant for summons service by the Palm Beach County Sheriff. File online via the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal or in person at a courthouse like 205 N. Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach.

Step 3: Submit Copies

Include: the original Complaint plus two copies per tenant; copies of the notice and lease with two extras per tenant; and two stamped #10 envelopes per tenant plus one for yourself, addressed with sufficient postage. Accurate addresses ensure the Sheriff serves the 5-day summons without delay.

Step 4: Filing and Service of Summons

File your case online, by mail, or in person. Once processed, the Clerk issues a summons, served by the Sheriff. Tenants have five business days (excluding holidays, weekends, and service day) to respond. Track progress via eCaseView.

Step 5: Wait for a Response

If no response comes within five days, proceed to Step 6. If tenants reply, a hearing may follow—local eviction attorneys like Kelley, Grant & Tanis can help navigate contested cases.

Step 6: Get Judgment Paperwork

For no response, request a Motion for Default and Final Judgment from the Clerk. These documents secure your eviction order if uncontested.

Step 7: Submit Originals and Copies

File one original Motion for Default, one original Final Judgment (plus a copy per tenant and yourself), and stamped envelopes for all parties. The Clerk processes these for the judge’s approval.

Step 8: Obtain the Writ of Possession

After judgment, request a Writ of Possession from the Clerk ($90 fee, payable by cashier’s check or money order to the Palm Beach County Sheriff). Include a Sheriff Information Sheet and stamped envelopes per tenant. The Sheriff serves the writ, giving tenants 24 hours to vacate before removal.

Need Help? Palm Beach County’s process is navigable, but mistakes cost time and money. Call FL Home Buyers or consult the Clerk’s Self-Service Center for guidance.