Alameda County, CA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)
Key Facts
- Regular increase cap
- 20 percent annually
- Special assessment cap
- 5 percent of budget without vote
- Late fee limit
- 10 percent or 10 dollars
- Interest limit
- 12 percent per year
- Foreclosure threshold
- 1,800 dollars or 12 months
Summary
Alameda County HOAs follow Civil Code 5600-5740 for assessments. Regular assessments cannot increase more than 20 percent annually, and special assessments over 5 percent of budget require member approval.
(b) Notwithstanding more restrictive limitations placed on the board by the governing documents, the board may not impose a regular assessment that is more than 20 percent greater than the regular assessment for the association’s preceding fiscal year or impose special assessments which in the aggregate exceed 5 percent of the budgeted gross expenses of the association for that fiscal year without the approval of a majority of a quorum of members, pursuant to Section 4070, at a member meeting or election.
Full Breakdown
HOA assessments in Alameda County are governed by Davis-Stirling provisions in Civil Code 5600 et seq. Boards may increase regular assessments up to 20 percent per year without member vote, provided proper budget disclosures under Civil Code 5300 are distributed 30-90 days before fiscal year start. Special assessments totaling more than 5 percent of annual budgeted gross expenses require membership approval. Emergency special assessments for immediate threats to health and safety or court-ordered judgments may bypass the cap. Delinquent assessments accrue late fees (maximum 10 percent or 10 dollars, whichever is greater), interest up to 12 percent annually, and collection costs. HOAs must offer payment plans before recording liens. Foreclosure requires 1,800 dollars or one-year delinquency and board action in open session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA double my dues?
What happens if I cannot pay an assessment?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Alameda County
California rules heatmap·Compare Alameda County to another location·View the California hoa rules overview
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