Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do assessment & dues rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Ontario.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario HOA assessments follow Civil Code 5600 through 5740. Regular dues and special assessments are capped, must be disclosed in writing, and must follow strict collection and lien procedures.
View full Ontario rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino HOA assessments follow CA Civil Code 5600. Regular dues can rise up to 20 percent per year, and special assessments up to 5 percent of budget, without a vote. Anything larger needs member approval.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Governing sections | Civil Code 5600 to 5740 | - |
| Regular dues cap | 20% without member vote | - |
| Special assessment cap | 5% without member vote | - |
| Pre-lien notice | 30 days certified mail | - |
| Foreclosure threshold | $1,800 or 12 months | - |
| Regular Cap | - | 20 percent annually |
| Special Cap | - | 5 percent of budget |
| Budget Notice | - | 30 to 90 days before fiscal year |
| Late Fee | - | 10 percent or 10 dollars |
| Foreclosure Threshold | - | 1,800 dollars or 12 months |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Can my Ontario HOA raise dues more than 20% in one year?
Not without a member vote. Civil Code 5605 caps non-vote dues increases at 20 percent per year and one-time special assessments at 5 percent of the budget.
Can the HOA foreclose on my home for unpaid dues?
Only if the balance exceeds 1,800 dollars or is 12 months delinquent, and only after statutory notices, payment plan offers, and ADR opportunities.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can my San Bernardino HOA raise dues without a vote?
Yes, up to 20 percent over the prior year under Civil Code 5605, if the board sent the pro forma budget 30 to 90 days before the fiscal year. Anything larger requires a membership vote.
How high can HOA late fees go in California?
Civil Code 5650 caps late fees at 10 percent of the delinquent assessment or 10 dollars, whichever is greater, plus interest up to 12 percent annually. Higher fees written into CC and Rs are unenforceable.
Compare other topics
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