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Sonora, CA HOA Rules: CC&R Enforcement (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Notice Required
15 days before hearing (CC §5855)
Hearing
Opportunity to be heard required
Decision Notice
Within 15 days of hearing
Fines
Must be reasonable
Defense
Selective enforcement

Summary

HOA CC&R enforcement in Sonora follows the Davis-Stirling Act. HOAs must provide notice and a hearing opportunity before imposing fines (Civil Code section 5855). Fines must be reasonable. Selective enforcement is a common defense in violation disputes.

(a) When the board is to meet to consider or impose discipline upon a member, or to impose a monetary charge as a means of reimbursing the association for costs incurred by the association in the repair of damage to the common area and facilities caused by a member or the member’s guest or tenant, the board shall notify the member in writing, by either personal delivery or individual delivery pursuant to Section 4040, at least 10 days prior to the meeting.

(b) The notification shall contain, at a minimum, the date, time, and place of the meeting, the nature of the alleged violation for which a member may be disciplined or the nature of the damage to the common area and facilities for which a monetary charge may be imposed, and a statement that the member has a right to attend and may address the board at the meeting. The board shall meet in executive session if requested by the member.

(c) A member shall have the opportunity to cure the violation prior to the meeting. The board shall not impose discipline in either of the following circumstances:

(1) The member cures the violation prior to the meeting.

(2) If curing the violation would take longer than the time between the notice provided pursuant to subdivision (a) and the meeting, the member provides financial commitment to cure the violation.

Source: Davis-Stirling Act — DisciplineView official code

Full Breakdown

The Davis-Stirling Act governs how HOAs enforce CC&Rs. Before imposing a monetary penalty, the HOA must notify the member at least 15 days in advance and provide an opportunity to be heard at a board meeting (Civil Code section 5855). The board must meet in executive session to discuss the matter and notify the member of the decision within 15 days. Fines must be reasonable and proportional. HOAs may record liens for unpaid fines following assessment lien procedures. Selective enforcement, where the HOA enforces rules against some members but not others, is a recognized defense. California law limits CC&R enforcement in several areas including solar panels, flags, EV chargers, and drought-tolerant landscaping.

Violations & Fines

HOAs that fail to follow proper enforcement procedures may have their fines overturned. Members can challenge enforcement through ADR or litigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my HOA fine me without a hearing in Sonora?
No. Civil Code section 5855 requires at least 15 days notice and an opportunity to be heard before the board can impose a monetary penalty.
What is selective enforcement by an HOA?
If the HOA enforces a rule against you but not against others who commit the same violation, selective enforcement is a recognized defense that can invalidate the fine.
Can my HOA put a lien on my home for CC&R violations?
HOAs may record liens for unpaid fines, but must follow strict procedural requirements. The process mirrors assessment lien procedures.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Sonora

All Sonora rules

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