California HOA laws
What California asks of your association
California HOAs are governed primarily by the Davis-Stirling Act, one of the most detailed HOA frameworks in the country. It sets out strict rules for budgets, reserves, elections, and member access to records.
Financial
Annual budget report
Cal. Civ. Code §5300Distribute the pro forma operating budget and reserve funding summary to members 30-90 days before the fiscal year end.
Annual policy statement
Cal. Civ. Code §5310Send members the annual policy statement covering assessment collection, dispute resolution, and contact info.
Reserve study
Cal. Civ. Code §5550Conduct a visual reserve study at least every three years and review reserve funding annually.
Annual financial review
Cal. Civ. Code §5305Have financial statements reviewed by a licensed accountant when annual revenue exceeds $75,000.
Meetings
Open meeting notice
Cal. Civ. Code §4920Provide at least 4 days notice of board meetings (2 days for executive sessions) with an agenda.
Records
Meeting minutes access
Cal. Civ. Code §4950Make board meeting minutes available to members within 30 days of the meeting.
Elections
Secret-ballot elections
Cal. Civ. Code §5100-5125Elect directors by secret double-envelope ballot using an independent inspector of elections.
Source: California Legislative Information (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov). Citations link to the official statute - always confirm against the current text.
This is general information to help boards get oriented, not legal advice. HOA statutes change and courts interpret them differently case to case. Confirm specifics with your association's attorney before acting.
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