California HOA Laws: Davis-Stirling Act, AB 130 Fine Caps & Your Rights
Complete California HOA guide under Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act. $100 fine cap per violation (AB 130), mandatory ADR, §5855 hearing protections, and homeowner rights.
Governing Law: California Civil Code §4000-6150 — Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act
Max Fine
$100 per violation (AB 130)
Aggregate Cap
No explicit cap
Notice Period
Reasonable opportunity to cure
Hearing
Yes — under §5855
California has one of the nation's strongest and most detailed HOA regulatory frameworks, governed by the Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act (California Civil Code §4000-6150). With millions of homeowners living in California HOAs, the state has continuously refined its protections to address board overreach and unfair enforcement practices.
The landmark Assembly Bill 130 (AB 130), effective January 1, 2025, introduced a $100 per-violation fine cap for the first time in California HOA history — a fundamental shift in protecting homeowners from excessive board penalties. Combined with earlier reforms like SB 900 (2024, requiring utility repairs within 14 days) and §5116 (2025, mandating electronic voting), California now provides comprehensive protection against unfair violations and enforcement.
This guide covers everything you need to know about California HOA law: how to fight violations under AB 130, your rights as a homeowner, mandatory alternative dispute resolution (ADR) requirements, and the specific procedures boards must follow. Use the sections below to find information relevant to your situation.
How to Fight an HOA Violation
Step-by-step guide to challenging unfair violations, including hearing procedures, protected activities, and proving selective enforcement.
Read Guide →California HOA Laws Explained
Complete overview of governing statutes, homeowner rights, board obligations, and recent legislative changes protecting homeowners.
Read Guide →HOA Fine Limits & Procedures
Maximum fine amounts, lien and foreclosure protections, late fee caps, and how California compares to neighboring states.
Read Guide →Frequently Asked Questions About California HOA Laws
What is the maximum HOA fine in California?
Under AB 130 (effective January 1, 2025), the maximum fine is $100 per violation for the first year. However, this cap only applies to violations of the governing documents — not health/safety violations. Fines for health, safety, or building code violations are not subject to the $100 cap. The statute also requires HOAs to apply fines in a manner consistent with enforcement on all residents.
What did AB 130 change for California HOA homeowners?
AB 130 (effective January 1, 2025) introduced California's first-ever $100 per-violation fine cap for non-health/safety violations. It also restricted HOAs from imposing fines exceeding twice the cost of repair and established that selective enforcement is illegal. The bill represents California's most significant fine reform in decades.
Can my California HOA fine me without a hearing?
No. Under California Civil Code § 5855, your HOA must provide a fair hearing before an impartial decision-maker before imposing any fine. The hearing process must include notice, opportunity to be heard, and a written decision with findings. Failing to provide a proper hearing makes the fine unenforceable.
How do I request records from my California HOA?
California Civil Code §§ 5200-5210 give you broad record access rights. You can request financial records, meeting minutes, enforcement records, and governing documents. The HOA must provide access or copies within 10 days. If they wrongfully deny access, you can pursue damages and attorney fees.
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