California HOA Laws

Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act (Civ. Code §4000–6150)

Has HOA Statute

Complete compliance reference for California HOA and condo boards. Below you'll find late fee limits, violation notice procedures, reserve study requirements, collection rules, and meeting mandates — all based on current state statutes.

14

Day Cure Period

15

Day Grace Period

4

Day Board Meeting Notice

Yes

Hearing Required

Late Fee Rules

Maximum Flat FeeNo statutory cap
Maximum Percentage10% of assessment
Cap Typereasonable
Minimum Grace Period15 days
Interest AllowedYes
Max Interest Rate12% per annum

Late fees must be reasonable. Civ. Code §5650 allows late charges and interest (max 12% annually). Many associations use 10% or $10, whichever is greater.

Violation Notice Rules

Written Notice Period10 days
Cure Period14 days
Hearing RequiredYes
Hearing Notice10 days advance
Certified MailNot required
Max Fine / Violation$100
ADR RequiredYes
StatuteCiv. Code §5855–5875

Board must give 10 days notice of hearing. Owner may attend and present defense. Fines capped at $100 per violation per Civ. Code §5850. IDR/ADR required before litigation.

Reserve Study Requirements

Study RequiredYes — by state law
FrequencyEvery 3 years
Funding WaivableYes — by owner vote
Budget DisclosureRequired
Visual InspectionRequired
StatuteCiv. Code §5550–5580

Visual inspection of major components every 3 years. Annual review of reserve funding plan. Must disclose percent funded in annual budget report.

Collection & Lien Rules

Lien AllowedYes
Min Days Before Lien30 days
Foreclosure AllowedYes
Pre-Lien NoticeRequired
Pre-Lien Notice Period30 days
Payment Plan RequiredYes

Pre-lien notice required 30 days before recording. Must offer payment plan for delinquencies over $1,800 or 12 months. Civ. Code §5650-5740.

Meeting Requirements

Board Meeting Notice4 days
Annual Meeting Notice30 days
Open MeetingsRequired
Minutes AccessibleRequired

Board meetings open to all members. 4 days notice for regular meetings, 2 days for emergency. Annual meeting notice 30-90 days in advance.

General Compliance Notes

  • Davis-Stirling Act is one of the most comprehensive HOA laws in the US.
  • Mandatory ADR (mediation) before filing lawsuit.
  • Extensive owner rights including access to records, financial reports.
  • Board must provide annual budget report with reserve funding disclosure.
  • Election procedures strictly regulated under Civ. Code §5100.

Legal Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. HOA laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed attorney in California for specific legal questions regarding your community.

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