California
HOA Laws
California's Davis-Stirling Act is one of the most detailed HOA statutes in the nation, governing all common interest developments including condominiums, planned developments, and cooperatives. It covers everything from board elections and open meetings to assessment collection, maintenance obligations, and dispute resolution.
Tracking aid, not legal advice.
SpotHOA monitors California HOA-related statutes weekly. We surface drafts of detected changes here after review. Always confirm with your attorney before relying on any of this for board action. State law changes; this page may lag the actual statute by days.
Last updated May 1, 2026
Governing statutes
Key provisions
- Boards must conduct elections using secret ballots with an independent inspector
- Annual budget reports, reserve studies, and financial disclosures are mandatory
- Open meeting requirements (the Open Meeting Act) apply to all board actions
- Assessment increases over 20% require a membership vote
- SB 326 requires exterior elevated element inspections for condominiums every nine years
- Owners can request and receive association records within specified timeframes
Regulatory body
Oversees new CID developments and public reports. Does not adjudicate individual HOA disputes.
Notable features
One of the most comprehensive HOA statutes in the U.S. ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) laws restrict HOA ability to prohibit ADUs. Recent legislation requires electronic voting options for associations that opt in. Strong protections for solar installations, EV charging, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
Tracking aid, not legal advice.
SpotHOA monitors California HOA-related statutes weekly. We surface drafts of detected changes here after review. Always confirm with your attorney before relying on any of this for board action. State law changes; this page may lag the actual statute by days.
Last updated May 1, 2026