For condominiums, the statutes is clear: “A fine may not become a lien against a unit.” Fla. Stat. § 718.303(3). Before 2010, the section of the Florida statutes that dealt with HOA fines similarly read “A fine shall not become a lien against a parcel.” Fla. Stat. § 720.305(2). However, in 2010 the legislature changed that language to read “A fine of less than $1,000 may not become a lien against a parcel.”
This amendment to the statute failed to specify the procedures for recording and foreclosing the lien, but presumably they would follow the same procedures for assessment liens in Fla. Stat. § 720.3085. Once the lien is foreclosed upon, the lien would merge with the association’s deed.
Not all fines can become liens. The statute limits fines to $100 per violation. If the fine is for a continuing violation, the association can levy a fine of up to $100 per day, but the fine cannot exceed $1000 in the aggregate unless the declaration allows. Fla. Stat. § 720.305(2). So only continuing violations that reach the $1000 limit can become liens.
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