Irvine, CA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)
Key Facts
- Regular Increase Cap
- 20% above prior year without member vote
- Special Assessment Cap
- 5% of annual budget without member vote
- Lien Notice
- 30 days written notice before lien recording
- Foreclosure Threshold
- Over $1,800 or 12+ months delinquent
- Reserve Study
- Required annually in budget disclosures
Summary
Irvine HOA boards may raise regular assessments up to 20 percent annually without a member vote under CA Civil Code 5600. Liens require 30 days written notice.
5605. (a) Annual increases in regular assessments for any fiscal year shall not be imposed unless the board has complied with paragraphs (1), (2), (4), (5), (6), (7), and (8) of subdivision (b) of Section 5300 with respect to that fiscal year, or has obtained the approval of a majority of a quorum of members, pursuant to Section 4070, at a member meeting or election.
Full Breakdown
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can my Irvine HOA raise dues without a vote?
Can my Irvine HOA foreclose on my home for unpaid dues?
What happens if the HOA reserve fund is underfunded?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Irvine
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