Assessment & Dues: Costa Mesa vs Irvine
How do assessment & dues rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Irvine, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Irvine.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
HOA assessments in Orange County are governed by the Davis-Stirling Act. Regular assessments can increase up to 20% per year without member vote. Special assessments exceeding 5% of the annual budget require member approval. Delinquent assessments can result in liens and foreclosure.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine HOA boards may raise regular assessments up to 20 percent annually without a member vote under CA Civil Code 5600. Liens require 30 days written notice.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Increase | Up to 20% without vote | - |
| Special Assessment | Member vote if over 5% of budget | - |
| Late Interest | Up to 12% per year | - |
| Lien Threshold | After 30 days delinquent | - |
| Foreclosure | Over $1,800 or 12 months past due | - |
| Regular Increase Cap | - | 20% above prior year without member vote |
| Special Assessment Cap | - | 5% of annual budget without member vote |
| Lien Notice | - | 30 days written notice before lien recording |
| Foreclosure Threshold | - | Over $1,800 or 12+ months delinquent |
| Reserve Study | - | Required annually in budget disclosures |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
How much can my HOA raise assessments?
Up to 20% per year without a member vote under the Davis-Stirling Act. Increases over 20% require majority member approval.
What happens if I don't pay my HOA dues?
After 30 days, the HOA can record a lien. Interest accrues at up to 12% per year. Foreclosure is possible when the amount exceeds $1,800 or is 12 months delinquent.
Can the HOA levy a special assessment without a vote?
Only for emergencies (immediate health/safety or legal compliance). Non-emergency special assessments exceeding 5% of the annual budget require member approval.
Irvine FAQ
How much can my Irvine HOA raise dues without a vote?
Under CA Civil Code 5600, the board may increase regular assessments up to 20 percent above the previous fiscal year without a member vote. Any increase beyond 20 percent requires majority approval from the membership.
Can my Irvine HOA foreclose on my home for unpaid dues?
The association must follow a strict process. A lien requires 30 days written notice. Foreclosure is only permitted when the delinquency exceeds $1,800 or is more than 12 months past due. The board must offer a payment plan before pursuing further collection.
What happens if the HOA reserve fund is underfunded?
The board must disclose the shortfall percentage to all members as part of the annual budget report. The reserve study must identify projected costs and recommended funding levels. Underfunding may lead to special assessments for major repairs.
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