October 22, 2026 | Mark Luis Foster
We’ve talked about it. We’ve written about it. We’ve hosted webinars about it. And we’ve discussed it at our chapter meetings.
But with January 1, 2027, now just over two months away, it’s time for another reminder about Minnesota’s SF 1750, often referred to as the so-called HOA Bill of Rights. That was a marketing label that we mostly think is laughable, but it’s there nonetheless.
The legislation, signed into law in May, introduces significant changes to how Minnesota homeowner associations operate. While some provisions have already taken effect, most become effective January 1. I’m always surprised when some HOA Leader I run into has never heard of it.
For volunteer HOA board leaders, the message is simple: Don’t wait until the new year to get ready.
Five Important Things to Remember
1. Transparency and Board Meetings
SF 1750 strengthens requirements involving board meetings, notices, homeowner participation, and access to information. Boards should review how meetings are announced, how agendas are communicated, and how homeowners can participate. Good communication has always been important. Now, compliance with specific legal requirements is even more essential.
2. Rules, Fines, and Enforcement
Associations will face new requirements involving reasonable rules, enforcement procedures, and financial penalties. Generally, boards must provide homeowners at least 21 days’ notice before voting on proposed rule changes. Fines for a single violation are generally limited to $100, subject to statutory exceptions.
Boards should review their existing enforcement policies rather than assume current practices will remain acceptable.
3. Vendor Contracts and Competitive Bidding
One of the most discussed provisions requires associations to solicit at least three written competitive bids for qualifying maintenance, construction, repair, or reconstruction contracts estimated at $50,000 or more.
Boards must also document the bidding and selection process. There are exceptions and important details, so understanding the requirements before signing major contracts is essential.
4. Collections and Dispute Resolution
SF 1750 changes how associations handle delinquent assessments, late fees, fines, and certain collection activities. It also establishes a process for resolving disputes between homeowners and associations.
Boards should review their collection procedures and adopt or update written policies where required. These changes deserve particular attention because mistakes could become costly.
5. Board and Property Manager Responsibilities
The legislation also strengthens protections against conflicts of interest and certain prohibited practices. Board members and property managers should understand the expectations involving vendor relationships, management agreements, and decisions affecting homeowners.
Don’t Overlook Your Governing Documents
Here’s another important point: Not every Minnesota HOA operates under identical governing documents or statutory requirements. An association’s age, structure, and applicable exemptions can matter.
Boards should work with their legal counsel and property management professionals to determine which changes apply to their communities.
We’ve Made It Easier to Get Ready
HOA Leadership Network has created a dedicated SF 1750 Education Center to help our members navigate these changes.
The center brings together our educational webinar series, legal perspectives, a board readiness checklist, and other resources designed to make this complicated legislation easier to understand.
If you’ve already attended our webinars, consider revisiting the materials. If you haven’t, there’s still time to get informed.
The bottom line?
SF 1750 doesn’t change the fundamental purpose of an HOA board: protecting property, maintaining the community, and serving homeowners responsibly.
But it does change some of the rules under which boards operate.
January 1 will be here before we know it. Let’s make sure Minnesota HOA leaders are prepared.
