Quick answer: Starting January 1, 2027, AB 1892 shortens the notice timeline for California HOA board elections by acclamation and narrows who must receive the electronic voting notice. The initial acclamation notice moves from at least 90 days to at least 30 days before the nomination deadline, and the reminder notice must go out at least 10 days before that deadline. Notices and elections handled in 2026 still follow today's rules.
What is AB 1892?
AB 1892 was signed by the Governor on August 31, 2026 and chaptered as Chapter 169, Statutes of 2026. It amends Civil Code Sections 5103 (election by acclamation) and 5105 (election rules, including electronic voting) in the Davis-Stirling Act. Like most new California laws, it takes effect January 1, 2027.
The three changes
1. Acclamation initial notice (Civil Code 5103)
Through December 31, 2026: at least 90 days before the nomination deadline
Starting January 1, 2027: at least 30 days before the nomination deadline
2. Acclamation reminder notice (Civil Code 5103)
Through December 31, 2026: between 7 and 30 days before the nomination deadline
Starting January 1, 2027: not less than 10 days before the nomination deadline
3. Electronic voting instructions (Civil Code 5105)
Through December 31, 2026: individual notice of the electronic secret ballot goes to members no later than 30 days before the election
Starting January 1, 2027: individual notice goes only to members who are voting electronically, still no later than 30 days before the election. Sending it earlier is fine.
What did not change
AB 1892 changes notice timing, not the rest of the acclamation rules. To seat candidates by acclamation, the association still has to:
Have held a regular board election within the last three years
Send both the initial notice and the reminder notice, each stating the number of seats, the nomination deadline, how to nominate, and that acclamation may occur (the reminder also lists the qualified candidates)
Acknowledge each nomination and give nominees a qualification decision within seven business days, including the reason and appeal process for any disqualification
Allow every member to run if nominated, except as Civil Code 5105 permits
Hold a board vote at a meeting whose agenda names each candidate to be seated
Acclamation is still optional. A board can always choose to hold a full secret ballot election instead. For the full walkthrough, see our guide to HOA election by acclamation.
Elections that cross January 1, 2027
A 2027 election date does not mean a 2026 notice can use the shorter timeline. If your nomination period opens in 2026, plan on the current 90-day and 7 to 30 day windows. If any part of your acclamation process spans the effective date, have association counsel confirm which rules apply.
How HOA Elections of California is handling it
Our 2026 election calendars are not changing. For acclamation cycles that start on or after January 1, 2027, we will update our election timelines to reflect the 30-day initial notice.
The law sets 10 days as the minimum for the reminder notice, but we plan to send ours on a business day close to 14 days before the nomination deadline. That gives members who nominate by mail time to receive the reminder and get their nomination back before the deadline.
For electronic voting elections, voting instructions will go to the members who are voting electronically, delivered no later than 30 days before the election.
What boards and managers should do now
Check your 2027 calendar. Note whether your nomination period starts before or after January 1, 2027.
Review your election rules. If your rules repeat the old 90-day language, talk with counsel about whether an update makes sense. Keep in mind that election rules generally cannot be adopted or amended less than 90 days before an election.
Keep your electronic voting list current. With the instruction notice going only to e-voters, an accurate opt-in list matters more.
Talk with your inspector early. Shorter notice windows leave less room for surprises. Request a proposal and we will map out your timeline.
Frequently asked questions
When does AB 1892 take effect?
January 1, 2027.
Can we still send the acclamation notice 90 days before the nomination deadline?
Yes. Thirty days is the new minimum, not a maximum. Sending earlier is still allowed.
Does AB 1892 make acclamation mandatory?
No. Acclamation remains an option the board may use when the number of qualified candidates does not exceed the number of open seats.
Does AB 1892 change when paper ballots are mailed?
No. The law addresses acclamation notices and the electronic voting notice. It does not change the ballot delivery timeline.
Does AB 1892 change how members opt in to electronic voting?
No. It changes who receives the electronic voting instructions, not the opt-in process.
This article is general information about California HOA election law and is not legal advice. HOA Elections of California is not a law firm. Consult your association's attorney about your specific situation.