Vermont's eviction procedure has longer notice periods than most states. Plan timelines accordingly.
Vermont's eviction process is governed by 9 V.S.A. Chapter 137 (Residential Rental Agreements) and the Rules of Civil Procedure. Cases are filed in superior court (civil division) at the county level. Vermont is moderately tenant-protective with extended notice periods and meaningful tenant defenses available. Uncontested cases typically conclude within six to nine weeks of filing.
Eviction cases are filed in the superior court (civil division) of the county where the property is located. Vermont has only 14 counties, and the superior court structure provides consistent procedures statewide. Burlington, Brattleboro, and Rutland have the highest case volumes.
For non-payment of rent, Vermont requires a 14-day written notice to pay or vacate under 9 V.S.A. 4467. The notice must state the amount owed and inform the tenant of the right to cure by paying within 14 days. The 14-day cure period is significantly longer than most states.
For material lease violations, Vermont requires a 30-day notice to cure or quit. For violations involving threats, illegal activity, or substantial damage, immediate termination may be available.
For month-to-month tenancies without cause, Vermont requires 60 days written notice for tenancies of two years or less, and 90 days for longer tenancies. Deliver notices by personal service or by leaving with someone of suitable age at the property.
After the notice period expires, file an eviction complaint in the superior court of the property's county. Filing fees in Vermont are typically $260 to $300. Service is performed by a sheriff or constable.
The tenant has 21 days from service to file an answer. After the answer, the court schedules a trial date — typically within 30 to 60 days.
Vermont superior court eviction hearings follow standard civil procedure. Bring your lease, all notices and proof of service, your rent ledger, and any documentation. Tenants can raise extensive defenses including warranty of habitability, retaliation, and procedural defenses.
If you prevail, the writ of possession is issued. Tenants have appeal rights and can request stays of execution for hardship.
Chittenden County, anchored by Burlington, is Vermont's most populous county and home to the University of Vermont. The student rental market plus general residential rentals create substantial case activity. Chittenden County eviction filings go to the Chittenden Superior Court — Civil Division in Burlington.
Rutland County, in the southwest part of the state, includes Rutland City and Killington. Rutland County eviction filings go to the Rutland Superior Court — Civil Division. For detailed landlord-tenant law specific to each county — including local court contacts, filing logistics, and procedural details — see Chittenden County landlord-tenant law and Rutland County landlord-tenant law.
Vermont's eviction procedure has longer notice periods than most states — 14 days for non-payment, 60 to 90 days for no-cause month-to-month termination. Plan timelines accordingly. See the full Vermont landlord-tenant law guide for notice templates, security deposit rules, and county-specific information across all 14 Vermont counties.
Once the writ of possession is issued, the sheriff executes the writ. Execution typically occurs within 7 to 14 days. Be present with a locksmith and document the unit's condition.
Vermont law provides procedures for handling tenant property left behind. Provide notice and reasonable opportunity for retrieval before disposal. Specific storage requirements apply.