SACRAMENTO, CA — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1684, authored by Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego), protecting homeowners living in common interest developments from HOA rules that prohibit or restrict the installation, replacement, upgrade, or use of cooling systems that comply with applicable building codes.
“As extreme heat becomes more common, staying cool at home isn’t a luxury, it’s a matter of health and safety,” said Assemblymember Chris Ward. “No homeowner should be prevented by their HOA from installing a safe, legal cooling system in their own home. AB 1684 gives Californians greater control over their homes and helps ensure families can stay safe and comfortable during periods of extreme heat.”
The new law covers a range of cooling technologies, including portable and window air conditioners, evaporative coolers, fans, and heat pumps, while preserving reasonable health, safety, permitting, and common-area requirements.
“I am very excited to see AB 1684 signed into law,” said the AD 78 constituent who proposed the bill, “All Californians should have the right to choose the cooling system that best meets their needs. I am grateful to Mr. Ward for listening to his constituents and championing this important legislation."
AB 1684 also provides accountability for willful violations, allowing homeowners to recover actual damages and a civil penalty of up to $2,000.