Colorado HOA Special Assessment Rules (2026)
C.R.S. § 38-33.3-315 (Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act — CCIOA) · Last reviewed 2026
A special assessment is a one-time charge levied by an HOA board to cover an unexpected or deferred expense not covered by the operating budget or reserve fund. Below are the key rules that govern how Colorado HOAs may levy special assessments and what rights homeowners have.
Key facts at a glance
Can levy without member vote
Board may levy special assessments as authorized by the declaration. CCIOA does not impose a statewide dollar cap — the declaration and bylaws set thresholds.
Not required by statute
Trigger: Only if the declaration or bylaws require a member vote for assessments above a specified threshold
10 days
Advance written notice to members before assessment levy
Available
Emergency assessments may be levied for imminent threats to common property or safety without waiting for standard notice periods.
- Board authority to levy special assessments is defined in the declaration
- CCIOA does not set a statewide cap — governing documents control
- 10-day advance written notice to unit owners is standard
- Emergency assessments may be levied without standard notice
- Colorado Division of Real Estate oversees HOA complaints
Colorado HOA owners may use the HOA Information and Resource Center for guidance. Formal disputes may be filed with the Colorado Division of Real Estate.
Pending special assessments must be disclosed in the resale disclosure certificate. FHA and Fannie Mae review assessment-to-value ratios during loan approval.
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Start 14-Day Free TrialThis page provides general legal information only — not legal advice. HOA special assessment laws vary by community type (planned community, condominium, cooperative, etc.) and are subject to change. The information on this page is based on statutes in effect as of 2026 and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Always consult a licensed HOA attorney and review your governing documents before taking action.