2026 HOA Laws in California
Everything homeowners need to know about their rights and HOA regulations
The Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act is one of the most homeowner-friendly HOA laws in the nation. It provides extensive transparency requirements and limits on HOA authority.
- Right to attend board meetings (some can be in executive session)
- Right to speak at meetings for a reasonable time
- Right to inspect HOA records (financial, meeting minutes, contracts)
- Right to display political signs (up to 6 sq ft)
- Right to install solar panels (cannot be prohibited)
- Right to use drought-resistant landscaping
- Right to electric vehicle charging stations
- Protection against excessive transfer fees
- Right to reasonable accommodation for disabilities
- Cannot be required to pay prior owner's debt (with exceptions)
- Can levy assessments for common area maintenance
- Can impose reasonable fines for violations (must have hearing)
- Can place liens for unpaid assessments over $1,800
- Can adopt and enforce architectural standards
- Can restrict rentals if properly documented in CC&Rs
- Can regulate noise, nuisances, and common area usage
- Cannot prohibit solar panels, EV chargers, or drought-tolerant landscaping
- Cannot impose transfer fees above $200 (with exceptions)
Key Laws You Should Know
Important statutes that protect your rights in California
Defines HOAs, their powers, and the rights of homeowners in California.
Governs how HOAs collect assessments and what remedies they have for non-payment.
Protects homeowner rights to install solar panels with reasonable restrictions.
Requires HOAs to update their governing documents to comply with current law.
Common HOA Disputes in California
The most frequent conflicts between homeowners and HOAs
Architectural review delays and denials
Solar panel installation disputes
Rental restrictions and enforcement
Excessive fines without proper hearings
Transfer fee disputes
Landscaping requirement conflicts with drought restrictions
Important Deadlines
Time-sensitive actions you need to take to protect your rights
Response to Violation Notice
Typically 10-30 days depending on the violation
Request for Hearing
Within 15 days of receiving fine notice
HOA Records Request
HOA must respond within 10 business days
Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR)
Must be completed within 90 days
Worried about a violation in California?
Upload your CC&Rs to see if your HOA is following California laws. Get your freedom score and talk to Praetor AI about your specific situation.
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