San Francisco, CA HOA Rules: Board Procedures (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Law
- Civil Code 4900-4955
- Regular Meeting Notice
- 4 days minimum
- Executive Session Notice
- 2 days minimum
- Open Forum
- Required at every meeting
- Minutes Availability
- Within 30 days
Summary
California HOA board meetings are governed by the Davis-Stirling Open Meeting Act (Civil Code 4900-4955). All board meetings must be open to members with at least 4 days advance notice for regular meetings and 2 days for executive sessions. Agendas must be posted and no action may be taken on items not listed.
4920. (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), the association shall give notice of the time and place of a board meeting at least four days before the meeting. (b) (1) If a board meeting is an emergency meeting held pursuant to Section 4923, the association is not required to give notice of the time and place of the meeting. (2) If a nonemergency board meeting is held solely in executive session, the association shall give notice of the time and place of the meeting at least two days prior to the meeting... (c) Notice of a board meeting shall be given by general delivery pursuant to Section 4045. (d) Notice of a board meeting shall contain the agenda for the meeting.
Full Breakdown
The Davis-Stirling Open Meeting Act requires all HOA board meetings in San Francisco to be conducted openly. Civil Code Section 4920 mandates at least 4 days advance notice for regular board meetings and 2 days for executive sessions, unless governing documents require longer. Notice must include the date, time, place, and a detailed agenda. Under Civil Code Section 4925, members have the right to attend and observe all board meetings and must be given an open forum period to voice concerns. The board may only discuss items listed on the agenda except in emergency situations per Civil Code Section 4923, which requires an urgent need that cannot wait for normal notice periods.
Executive sessions are limited to specific topics: litigation, contracts, member discipline, personnel matters, and payment plan negotiations (Civil Code 4935). Board meeting minutes must be made available to members within 30 days. AB 130 (effective 2025) caps monetary penalties at $100 per violation unless a health and safety exception is documented at an open meeting.
Violations & Fines
Board actions taken in violation of the Open Meeting Act may be voided by a court. Members may seek injunctive relief under Civil Code 5975. Attorney fees may be awarded to the prevailing party.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice must an HOA give for board meetings in San Francisco?
Can the HOA board discuss items not on the agenda?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
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