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

Regular and special assessments for Ontario HOAs are governed by Davis-Stirling Civil Code sections 5600 through 5740. Boards may increase regular dues by up to 20 percent per year and impose special assessments of up to 5 percent of the annual budget in a fiscal year without a member vote; anything larger requires a member vote with quorum under Civil Code 5605. Before imposing assessments the board must distribute a proforma budget, reserve study disclosures, and the annual policy statement to members per Civil Code 5300. Assessments are the personal obligation of the owner and automatically create a lien on the property under Civil Code 5650 if unpaid. Before recording a lien the HOA must send a pre-lien notice by certified mail at least 30 days in advance, offer a payment plan and Alternative Dispute Resolution, and follow strict accounting of fees, late charges, and interest. Collection costs and attorney fees may be added only in accordance with the CC&Rs and statute. Foreclosure of an HOA assessment lien is governed by Civil Code 5700 through 5720 and requires the balance to exceed 1,800 dollars or be 12 months delinquent.