HOAs in LA County may require architectural approval for exterior modifications under their CC&Rs, but California law limits restrictions on solar panels, drought-tolerant landscaping, EV charging stations, and ADUs.
Under the Davis-Stirling Act, HOA boards may establish architectural review committees to approve exterior modifications per the CC&Rs. However, California law limits HOA authority in several areas. Civil Code §714 prohibits unreasonable restrictions on solar energy systems. Civil Code §4735 bars HOAs from prohibiting drought-tolerant landscaping or requiring turf in common interest developments. Government Code §65852.2 preempts HOA restrictions that effectively prohibit ADUs. Civil Code §4745 requires HOAs to allow EV charging stations. Architectural review decisions must be made within 60 days of application submission or are deemed approved. Denials must be in writing with specific reasons. The review process must be outlined in the CC&Rs or board-adopted rules distributed to all members.
Unauthorized modifications without architectural approval may result in fines per the HOA's schedule, typically $50–$200 per violation, and requirements to restore the original condition at the owner's expense.
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See how Los Angeles County's architectural review rules stack up against other locations.
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