Irvine, CA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)

Under CA Civil Code 5600, HOA boards may increase regular assessments up to 20 percent above the prior year without a member vote. Increases beyond 20 percent require approval by a majority of members. Special assessments exceeding 5 percent of the current annual budget require member approval. Emergency special assessments for immediate safety threats or court-ordered obligations may be levied without a vote. Associations must send a 30-day notice before recording a lien for delinquent assessments under CA Civil Code 5660. Before pursuing foreclosure on an assessment lien, the total delinquency must exceed $1,800 or be more than 12 months past due. Boards must offer payment plans for delinquent owners and provide at least 30 days to cure before additional collection action. The annual budget must include a reserve study prepared or reviewed by a qualified professional. Associations with reserve funding below recommended levels must disclose the shortfall percentage to all members. Irvine HOAs range from small townhome associations to large village-level communities with annual assessments that fund pools, parks, community centers, and extensive landscaping.