Kentucky Hotel and Motel Resident Rights: Essential Tenancy Rules

If you're living in a hotel or motel in Kentucky, you might be surprised to learn that your rights can vary depending on how long you've stayed and the nature of your arrangement. While hotels and motels often serve travelers, many Kentuckians use them as their main home due to housing shortages or life transitions. This article will explain how Kentucky law treats hotel and motel residents, what protections apply to you, and where to turn for help if you face eviction or other problems.

When Does a Hotel or Motel Stay Become a Tenancy in Kentucky?

Unlike traditional apartments, hotel and motel arrangements aren't always automatically covered by the state's landlord-tenant laws. However, if you've lived in the same room for a certain amount of time, you may gain the legal protections of a tenant.

  • The Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) applies in cities and counties that have adopted it. Not all areas in Kentucky use this law.
  • Generally, if you stay in a hotel or motel for 30 days or more and establish it as your main residence, you may be considered a tenant—especially if you pay rent weekly or monthly.
If you have been living in a hotel or motel for over 30 days and treat it as your home, you may have tenant rights—meaning you can't simply be "locked out." Always check if your county uses URLTA.

Eviction and Lockouts: What Hotel and Motel Residents Need to Know

Evictions from hotels and motels in Kentucky work differently depending on your status:

  • Short-term guests (under 30 days, no intent to make it a home): Can often be asked to leave by management without a formal eviction process.
  • Long-term residents/tenants (30 days or more, use address as home): Gain protections under Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act if applicable in your location.

For tenants, the property owner must give written notice before starting an eviction. They cannot change the locks, shut off your utilities, or remove your belongings without a court order.

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Which Cities and Counties Are Covered by Kentucky's Landlord-Tenant Act?

The Kentucky URLTA applies only in certain areas. Check with your city's government or county clerk to confirm if you're protected, or view this resource from the Kentucky Courts.

Relevant Official Forms for Kentuckians in Hotels and Motels

  • For Eviction (Tenant's Rights Notice): While there is no separate statewide form specifically for hotel/motel situations, Kentucky's Court System provides various forms related to evictions ("Forcible Detainer").
    • Name/Number: Forcible Detainer Complaint (AOC-216)
    • When Used: If a landlord begins eviction proceedings against a hotel or motel resident who is considered a tenant, this form is filed in District Court.
    • Example: If you receive a written notice or are told to leave, and believe you have tenant rights, you may be served with a court summons. You may respond using court forms or appear to answer the suit.
    • Link: Forcible Detainer Complaint (AOC-216)
  • Notice to Vacate:
    • Name/Number: Notice to Vacate (no official form; may be a written letter)
    • When Used: Landlords must provide written notice—typically 7 days for nonpayment—for covered tenants before filing for eviction.
    • Example: You've fallen behind on payment for your long-term motel room, and the manager gives you a written 7-day notice to vacate.

What Legal Protections Are Available?

In covered locations, tenant rights include:

  • Advance written notice before eviction
  • Access to District Court for eviction proceedings
  • Protection from "self-help" evictions (e.g., lockouts, utility shutoffs)
  • Basic habitability standards (cleanliness, working heat, water, power)

Remember, in areas without URLTA coverage, general contract or innkeeper laws may apply, giving fewer protections for long-term stays.

How to Respond to an Eviction Notice from a Hotel or Motel

If you believe you are a tenant, take these steps:

  • Ask your motel/hotel manager to provide written notice
  • Check if your city or county has adopted the Kentucky URLTA (ask at city hall or use county websites)
  • Keep records: rent receipts, mail showing your room address, or job logs
  • If you’re served court papers, respond promptly using the forms above or by appearing in court
  • Contact free legal aid for assistance (see "Resources" below)

FAQ: Kentucky Hotel and Motel Tenant Rights

  1. Do hotel or motel residents in Kentucky have eviction protections? As a resident who has stayed 30 days or more and treats the hotel or motel as your main home, you may have protections similar to tenants. This often means your landlord must provide notice and use the court eviction process in areas covered by the Kentucky URLTA.
  2. How do I know if my motel stay is covered by Kentucky tenant laws? Generally, if you’ve stayed 30 days or more, receive mail there, and live in a URLTA city or county, you likely have tenant rights. Always check with your local authorities.
  3. What can I do if I’m locked out of my room? In covered areas, lockouts without a court order are against the law. Contact local police or seek help from Kentucky Legal Aid if you're locked out.
  4. Do I need a lease to have rights as a tenant? No. Even without a written lease, your actions—like paying regular rent and using the room as your home—can sometimes establish a tenancy.
  5. Where can I get help if I’m facing eviction from a hotel or motel? Contact Kentucky Legal Aid or your local District Court for assistance. See the resources below for official links.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Hotel and Motel Residents

  • If you've stayed 30 days or more and treat your hotel or motel as home in a covered jurisdiction, you may have legal tenant protections.
  • Evictions usually require advance written notice and a court process. Lockouts and utility shutoffs are illegal for tenants in most covered areas.
  • Official forms like the Forcible Detainer Complaint are used in Kentucky District Courts for eviction cases—know your local court’s rules.

Knowing your rights can help you protect your housing stability. When unsure, seek free legal assistance or contact your local court for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
  2. Forcible Detainer Complaint (AOC-216), Kentucky Court of Justice
  3. Kentucky Policy – Landlord-Tenant Act coverage by location
  4. Kentucky District Courts (handles official eviction cases)
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.