Alameda County HOAs conduct architectural review under Civil Code 4765. Associations must provide fair, reasonable procedures with written decisions within a defined timeframe and a right to appeal to the board.
Architectural review in Alameda County HOAs, particularly in Dublin Ranch, Ruby Hill Pleasanton, and Fremont planned communities, must comply with Civil Code 4765. Associations must adopt written architectural guidelines and provide them to owners on request. Decisions must be made in good faith, not arbitrary or capricious, and consistent with governing documents. Written decisions are required within a reasonable time, typically 30-60 days under most association rules. If the application is denied, the HOA must state specific reasons in writing and inform the owner of the right to reconsideration by the board. Owners denied reconsideration can pursue Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR) or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Solar, low-water landscaping, and EV chargers have state-law protections against HOA denial.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Alameda County's architectural review rules stack up against other locations.
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