Laws always supersede governing documents IF they conflict and the law applies to your HOA. In California, the Davis-Stirling Act may take precedent over general corporation codes because it's specific to HOAs.
Once you buy a home that's part of an HOA, you automatically become a member of the HOA. HOA rules are legally binding, and you must adhere to all rules and regulations in the governing document. Yes, there are bylaws that you may not like, but there are no HOA loopholes.
This is a fairly simple process. Simply create a document that describes the changes you want to make, and submit it to your HOA board of directors. Once the board of directors has an idea of what changes are necessary, they draft those changes and propose them to the rest of the board.
Filing a lawsuit against an HOA is typically done in small claims court. The first step is to determine how much compensation is required. Small claims is bound by a limit for damages, and any cases seeking damages above this amount must either waive the excess or file in regular court instead.
The best way to strategize on short-term rental restrictions is to speak to a board member. At the same time, you can consult the CC&Rs' (Covenants, conditions, and restrictions) advice. Knowing the potential risks of getting around HOA's restrictions is important. And we highly recommend doing it the legal way.
What are unenforceable HOA rules? Keep you out of court. Hush up litigation. Discriminate indiscriminately. Enter your home without cause or notice. String you out on the (clothes)line. Fine you for fun. Change rules on the fly. Demand you take down your dish.
No, there is not a way to ``leave the HOA'' without moving. The HOA covenants are tied to the property permanently.
The local law supersedes the rules and regulations of the HOA, meaning that HOAs must ensure they are operating under the law.
The number is usually five. Very small associations sometimes call for three directors, and very large associations may have seven or more.