How to Remove an HOA Board Member: Recall Process

Quick Answer

To remove an HOA board member, start with your bylaws and state law. Members can generally recall a director by petitioning for a special meeting and then winning a vote, though the required signatures and vote threshold vary. Some bylaws let the board remove a director for specific reasons, such as missed meetings. Follow the procedure exactly or the result may be challenged.

Step 1: Read Your Governing Documents

Removal rules usually appear in the bylaws and the articles of incorporation, and state law fills gaps. Look for how directors may be removed, who may vote, the petition requirements, notice periods and any limits on removal without cause. Our governing documents guide explains where to look.

Two Ways a Director May Be Removed

• By the members: owners petition for a special meeting or ballot and vote to remove one or more directors. This is the usual recall route.
• By the board: some documents allow the board to remove a director for stated causes, such as repeated absences or failing to meet a qualification. Many do not, and state law may limit it.

Step 2: Gather and Submit a Petition

Members typically demand a special meeting by collecting signatures from a required percentage of owners. Verify the percentage, the form of petition and to whom it goes. Keep copies and proof of delivery. Use accurate owner lists, since an invalid signature can sink a petition.

Step 3: The Association Must Call the Meeting

Once a valid petition is delivered, the board generally must notify members and hold the meeting within the time your documents and state law require. If the board refuses, owners may need to seek legal help or a court order. Read what board members are responsible for to understand their duties here.

Step 4: Hold a Fair Vote

The vote should follow the documents' notice, quorum and ballot rules. In California, the Davis-Stirling Act includes election rules such as candidate and member communication access, covered in our post on Arroyo v. Pacific Ridge. In Michigan, see our overview of Michigan HOA board elections.

California Specifics

Under California Corporations Code section 7222, members generally may remove directors with or without cause. Corporations Code section 7510 allows 5 percent of members to call a special meeting, and section 7511 requires the meeting between 35 and 90 days after the petition is received, according to secondary sources we reviewed. If the association uses cumulative voting, removing fewer than all directors is harder, because a director cannot be removed if the votes against would be enough to elect that person. In Lake Lindero Homeowners Association v. Barone (2023), a court reportedly held that bylaws could not require more than a majority of votes cast at a duly held meeting for removal in a larger association. Confirm all of this with a California HOA attorney.

Michigan Specifics

Michigan's Nonprofit Corporation Act, section 450.2511, says that members of a corporation organized on a membership basis may remove directors with or without cause unless the articles provide that removal is only for cause. It requires a vote of a majority of the members entitled to vote at an election of directors, though the articles may require a higher vote for removal without cause. A corporation organized on a directorship basis works differently: the directors may remove a director for cause by a majority of directors in office. Condominium bylaws may contain additional procedures, so check yours and confirm with a Michigan attorney.

Avoid Leaving the Board Empty

If a recall removes directors, the association still needs a functioning board. Many associations hold a replacement election at the same meeting. Plan for that so the community is not left without leadership.

Alternatives to Removal

• Ask for records and review financials and meeting minutes.
• Attend meetings and raise concerns in writing.
• Run for the board at the next election.
• Use mediation or other dispute resolution if your documents provide for it.

Disagreement over spending or enforcement can be handled with information. See HOA financial management explained.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can homeowners remove an HOA board member without cause?

Often yes. Michigan's nonprofit statute and California's Corporations Code both generally allow member removal with or without cause, subject to articles, bylaws and voting rules.

How many signatures do I need to recall a board member?

It depends on your documents and state law. In California, 5 percent of members may call a special meeting under the Corporations Code, but verify your bylaws.

Can the board remove another director?

Only if the bylaws or state law allow it. Many associations allow it only for specific reasons, and a Michigan directorship-basis corporation can remove for cause by a board majority.

How long does an HOA recall take?

Timing depends on notice requirements. California statutes reportedly call for a meeting 35 to 90 days after the petition. Allow weeks to months.

Should I hire an attorney for a recall?

It is wise to consult one, because procedural mistakes can invalidate a recall. Ask whether the association's insurance or documents affect who bears costs.

How APM Helps

APM manages community associations in Michigan and California. If you want to see how professional management could work for your community, read about our association management services, review our pricing, or request a free proposal. We deliver proposals within 3 business days.

This article is general information, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Laws and documents vary by community; ask your association's attorney or CPA about your situation. Last verified October 25, 2026.