Los Angeles, CA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)

Under the Davis-Stirling Act, regular HOA assessments can be increased by the board up to 20% above the prior year's assessment without a member vote (Civil Code §5605). Increases exceeding 20% require majority approval of the membership. Special assessments (one-time charges for unexpected expenses) that exceed 5% of the budgeted gross expenses for the current fiscal year also require member approval per Civil Code §5605. The association must distribute an annual budget report and pro forma operating budget at least 30-45 days before the fiscal year. For delinquent assessments, the association must apply partial payments first to assessments, then to other charges — this prevents the debt from triggering foreclosure. Foreclosure (nonjudicial) cannot proceed unless the delinquent amount (exclusive of late fees, interest, attorney fees, and costs) exceeds $1,800 or the assessments are more than 12 months delinquent (Civil Code §5720). Before recording a lien, the association must send a pre-lien letter by certified mail giving the owner 30 days to pay (Civil Code §5660).