Los Angeles County, CA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)
Key Facts
- Max Annual Increase
- 20% without vote
- Special Assessment
- 5% budget cap
- Late Fee Cap
- 10% or $10
- Interest Cap
- 12% annually
- Lien Threshold
- $1,800
Summary
The Davis-Stirling Act regulates HOA assessments in LA County. Regular assessments may increase up to 20% annually without member vote. Special assessments exceeding 5% of budget require majority member approval.
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 ... or has obtained the approval of a majority of a quorum of members, pursuant to Section 4070, at a member meeting or election. (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 ...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Under Civil Code §5600–5625, HOA boards may increase regular assessments up to 20% per year without a member vote. Increases over 20% require approval by a majority of the membership. Special assessments exceeding 5% of the annual budget also require majority member approval. The board must distribute an annual budget report within 30-90 days before the fiscal year (Civil Code §5300). Assessments become delinquent 15 days after due. Late fees cannot exceed 10% of the delinquent amount or $10, whichever is greater. Interest on delinquent assessments is capped at 12% annually. HOAs may record liens for unpaid assessments after certain notice requirements. Foreclosure of assessment liens is permitted for amounts exceeding $1,800 or assessments delinquent for more than 12 months.
Violations & Fines
Late payment: up to 10% penalty plus 12% annual interest. Delinquent assessments exceeding $1,800 or 12 months overdue may result in property lien and potential foreclosure under Civil Code §5700–5735.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can my HOA raise dues without a vote?
Can my HOA foreclose for unpaid dues?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
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