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Free tool · Florida

Is my HOA fine valid in Florida?

In Florida, Chapter 720 sets specific steps an HOA must follow before a fine takes effect — notice, an independent hearing committee, and hard dollar caps.

This is general information, not legal advice, and it does not decide whether your fine is valid. For your specific situation, a licensed Florida attorney is the right resource.

Check your notice

Answer a few questions about the Florida fine or violation notice you received, and see how it compares to what the law requires.

Question 1

1.Did the violation notice identify the specific rule or covenant you allegedly broke?

As opposed to something vague like “your yard is not in compliance,” with no rule cited.

Question 2

2.Were you given at least 14 days’ notice and a chance for a hearing before the fine was imposed?

Question 3

3.Was the hearing before a committee of at least three people who are NOT board members, officers, employees, or their relatives?

Question 4

4.Is the fine more than $100 for a single violation — or is the HOA threatening a lien over a fine under $1,000?

Answer all questions to see your result.

What Florida law requires before an HOA can fine you

Governing framework: Florida Statutes Chapter 720.

Florida’s framework contemplates that a fine notice identifies the specific rule or covenant allegedly violated and the factual basis for it.

Statute: §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

Before a fine can be imposed, the homeowner is entitled to at least 14 days’ notice and an opportunity for a hearing before a committee.

Statute: §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

The hearing committee must be at least three members who are not officers, directors, or employees of the association (or their close relatives); if the committee does not approve the fine by majority vote, it may not be imposed.

“If the committee, by majority vote, does not approve a proposed fine or suspension, the proposed fine or suspension may not be imposed.” — §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

Statute: §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

A fine generally may not exceed $100 per violation. For a continuing violation the board may levy a fine for each day, but the total may not exceed $1,000 unless the governing documents provide otherwise. A fine of less than $1,000 may not become a lien.

“A fine may not exceed $100 per violation … A fine of less than $1,000 may not become a lien against a parcel.” — §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

Statute: §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

Timing the Florida statute sets

HOA disputes often turn on short statutory windows — these are worth knowing early.

  • At least 14 days’ notice before a hearing

    A fine can’t be imposed until the homeowner has had at least 14 days’ notice and an opportunity for a hearing before the committee.

    §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

  • Any hearing held within 90 days of the notice

    When a hearing is requested, the statute provides that it must be held within 90 days after issuance of the notice.

    §720.305(2), Fla. Stat.

Go deeper on Florida HOA law

Sources

Not legal advice.This article is general information based on publicly available state law, which can change and varies by state. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Your community's governing documents may impose additional requirements. Verify the current statutes and consult a licensed attorney in your state about your specific situation.