How do I recall an HOA board member in California?
Reviewed May 2026📘 Short Answer
To recall an HOA board member in California, members generally must submit a valid petition requesting a special meeting and conduct the recall election using the secret-ballot procedures required by California law. Whether a director is removed depends on the voting requirements in the governing documents and applicable California law.
⚖️ Relevant California Law
- § Civil Code §5110 — Requires the association to appoint one or three independent inspectors of elections.
- § Civil Code §5115 — Establishes secret-ballot procedures and election administration requirements for recall elections and other member votes conducted by secret ballot.
- § Corp. Code §7510 — Governs special meetings of members, including meetings requested by member petition.
- § Corp. Code §7222 — Governs the removal of directors of nonprofit mutual benefit corporations by member vote.
🏠 What This Means for Homeowners
A recall election allows members to remove an elected director before the end of the director's term. Following the required petition and voting procedures is critical to a valid recall.
- ✓ Review your governing documents for recall procedures and voting requirements
- ✓ Determine the number of member signatures required to demand a special meeting
- ✓ Collect signatures and submit a written petition requesting a recall meeting
- ✓ Retain copies of the petition and supporting documentation
- ✓ Monitor meeting notices and recall election materials
- ✓ Participate in the recall election conducted by secret ballot
🏢 What This Means for Boards and Managers
When a valid recall petition is received, the association must follow the applicable requirements for member meetings, notice, secret ballots, and election administration.
- ✓ Verify petition signatures and member eligibility
- ✓ Consult the governing documents and applicable statutes regarding meeting requirements
- ✓ Appoint independent inspectors of elections
- ✓ Conduct the recall vote using the required secret-ballot procedures
- ✓ Provide proper notice of the member meeting and election
- ✓ Document election results and retain election records
- ✓ Fill any resulting vacancy according to the governing documents and applicable law
Still have questions?
Review your HOA recall procedures for compliance
Ask Lexi about your HOA election⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕ Using informal voting methods instead of secret ballots
- ✕ Failing to appoint independent inspectors of elections
- ✕ Miscalculating the number of signatures required for a member petition
- ✕ Failing to follow notice requirements for the special meeting
- ✕ Ignoring or improperly rejecting a valid member petition
People Also Ask
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Last reviewed: 2026-05-29 · Version 2026.3