FAQs • Contra Costa County, CA • CivicEngage

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Agriculture, Weights and Measures Pest Detection FAQ

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1. What’s that thing hanging in my tree/lawn/garden?: We use several types of detection traps, including the glass McPhail, paper Jackson, plastic Japanese Beetle, sticky paper panel traps and sticky delta traps. Most of the traps are specifically designed to attract a particular type of insect.

2. How was my house selected?: We noticed and admired your fruit tree(s) while we were working in your neighborhood. If you have a Japanese Beetle or Gypsy Moth trap, it was placed because your ornamental trees, turf, or roses caught our eye.

3. What if I don’t want a trap placed in my yard?: Please contact us by email or call us at (925) 608-6600.

4. How long will the trap be here? Will you place traps on my property every year?: We typically leave these traps on the property for six weeks or until the fruit is gone. The Japanese beetle trap and the gypsy moth trap are normally placed in May and removed in September. We try not to visit the same property until a full year has elapsed.

5. Will the person who places the trap go into my fenced yard?: The majority of the traps are placed in front yard fruit trees or on trees that hang over a public walkway. We do not enter backyards without leaving a notice in advance or talking to a resident of the property beforehand. If you received a notice but were unable to speak to a Pest Detection Specialist about a trap being placed, please call us with any concerns or special instructions about entering your property.

6. Do Pest Detection Specialists wear uniforms while placing and servicing traps?: No, but staff members will be carrying official identification and will be in a marked county vehicle.

7. Will I be charged for the trapping on my property?: Good news! We do not charge for this service. Trapping benefits our agricultural community and all residents with fruit trees and gardens that contain hosts of exotic fruit flies and other pests. Thank you for allowing us the use of your trees/turf/gardens to assist in the early detection of new pests.

8. Do I have to do anything with the trap?: Not at all. The trap will function best if you leave it alone. We will service the trap regularly. If you must move the trap, please do not throw it away. Instead, please leave it where we can find and retrieve it.

9. When will the traps be checked?: Some traps are checked weekly, while others are checked bi-weekly. The particular day may change due to holidays or other interruptions of the work schedule.

10. What happens if you find a target insect?: It depends on which pest, how many are found, and whether it is a male, unmated female, or mated female. A detection will prompt the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to place more traps in the area to determine the extent of the infestation. In rare situations, state or county staff might need to take all the fruit off the tree and do some localized pesticide treatments. If this is the case, residents will be informed before their property is treated. If conditions warrant it, a quarantine restricting the movement of the host fruits, vegetables, or plants may be instituted. If this were to happen, CDFA and our department would hold public meetings to explain where the quarantine was located and how it worked in greater detail.

11. Will the traps attract other insects?: The glass McPhail traps, which contain water with yeast, attract any kind of fly that is in the area, including house flies. The yellow sticky panel trap is also a general trap and may catch non-target insects. The other traps we use contain a specific pheromone that only attracts the male of the target species. From time to time, other insects will wander into the traps and get caught.

12. Do the traps affect the fruit?: No, the traps do not affect the quality or safety of the fruit. In fact, they may actually protect the fruit from being destroyed by an insect pest. Pick, wash and enjoy your fruit as you normally do.

13. What should I do if I find your trap on the ground? Is it dangerous?: Since McPhail traps are made of glass, they can break. If you find a trap that has fallen to the ground and is broken, please carefully pick up and dispose of the glass in the regular trash as you would with other broken glass. The fluid inside might have a strong odor from the yeast, but the material inside is harmless and can be hosed down with plain water. Panel, Jackson and Delta traps can be picked up and placed back into the tree by the homeowner or resident, although if you do so, please be sure to handle the trap carefully. Panel traps are very sticky, and the cotton wick inside the Jackson and Delta traps has a trace amount of a pesticide used to kill the fly, so please don’t touch them without gloves. You may also contact us and we will immediately make arrangements to rehang the trap.

14. Aren’t insects an important part of nature?: Yes, they are! However, non-native insects have no natural predators here to keep a population in control. By controlling exotic pests, we are protecting agriculture, gardens, and our environment.

15. What can I do to help the pest detection trapping program?

You can help by:

1. Welcoming the detection traps featured on this page.

2. Report any unusual or targeted insects or plant conditions. You can report this to our department, the University of California Master Gardeners of Contra Costa, or the California Department of Food and Agriculture Pest Hotline at 1-800-491-1899.

3. Follow any quarantine restrictions that apply to your property.

4. When returning to California from an out-of-state trip, do not bring back prohibited fruits, vegetables, and other plants with you.

5. Discourage your family and friends outside of California from sending backyard produce or plants in the mail. If you do want to send these things, contact our office so we can help you to determine if you can do it safely. Visit the California Department of Agriculture’s information on bringing plants and animals into California and guide for bringing fruit and vegetables into California (PDF) to find out what is prohibited.

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Airport

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1. How can I book a flight from Buchanan Field?: Buchanan Field now has scheduled charter service provided by JSX with daily flights to Burbank, CA. For more information, please visit their website at www.jsx.com.
website.

2. Is Buchanan Field close to Bay Area transportation?: Yes. Buchanan Field has convenient access to I-680 and Highway 4; both of which are major freeways in the Bay Area. If you plan to fly to Buchanan Field, car rentals are available on the east side of Buchanan Field. If you plan to stay at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, located on Airport property, the hotel provides a free shuttle to the BART train and other major transportation centers. A County Connection bus line also runs adjacent to the west and east entrances to Buchanan Field.

3. How can I voice a concern or make a suggestion about improving Buchanan Field or Byron Airport?: The Aviation Advisory Committee is one forum for voicing opinions and concerns. The committee typically meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Director of Airports Office at 550 Sally Ride Drive in Concord, CA. Meetings are open to the general public and include a public comment period. You may also email your concern or suggestion to Airports staff by completing an Airports Feedback Form, which may be found on the Noise Management Page.

4. What is Contra Costa County Airports doing to address aircraft noise?: Buchanan Field is one of only a few airports in California to have adopted a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorized noise ordinance which limits operating hours for flight training and prohibits airplanes that exceed 78 dBA, per FAA Advisory Circular 36-3. Airports staff maintains regular communication with pilots based at Buchanan Field regarding the Noise Management Program, aircraft specific noise abatement procedures, community feedback, and encourages its pilots to avoid flying over neighboring communities whenever possible. The Aviation Advisory Committee (AAC) provides the public a forum for which to voice opinions and concerns on airport matters. Please visit the Buchanan Field Noise Program website under Community Resources on this website for more information.

5. Can't you tell the plane that is flying over my residence to go somewhere else?: Once an aircraft has left the ground, it is in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) jurisdiction. For the safety of both pilots and the community, only the FAA can direct an aircraft to change altitude or flight path and use certain runways. This direction is often based on wind and weather conditions that may vary throughout the day. While Airports staff cannot direct a plane to change direction, communication with pilots regarding community concerns is ongoing. If you notice an aircraft flying objectionably low or loud, we value your feedback. You may submit an Airport Feedback Form, which can be found on the Community Resources: Noise Management page.

6. What is the curfew for airplanes to arrive and depart at Buchanan Field?: Buchanan Field is a federally regulated 24-hour public use facility, so there is no curfew for arrivals or departures. However, the Contra Costa County Airports Noise Ordinance does limit flight training and touch-and-go operations to the to 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday through Friday and 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends and holidays. In addition, the Ordinance restricts airplanes exceeding 75 dBA, per the Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 36-3, from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

7. There seems to be more and more noise coming from Buchanan Field. Have the number of flights increased recently?: Aviation activity varies depending on weather and economic factors and typically increases in spring and summer months due to the good weather. Buchanan Field averages approximately 120,000 operations (take-off or landings) per year. The peak use of Buchanan Field in the last 30 years was in 1990 when the Airport had over 300,000 operations and was home to a commercial airline and a helicopter flight training school. Annual operations decreased during the recent recession—hitting a 25 year low in 2012—but have rebounded along with the economy. For a graph of operations by year, please click on the Buchanan Field Annual Operations link found on the Buchanan Field (CCR) page of this website.

8. How is Contra Costa County Airports marketing itself to remain competitive in the General Aviation airport market?: Airports staff is working on a series of planned informational videos to inform the general public about the benefits provided by Buchanan Field and Byron Airports and encourage pilots and prospective tenants to consider basing their aircraft at the Airports. The first video, Touch Down in the Bay Area, was completed in late 2014 and the second video, Learning to Fly, was completed in 2016. Learning to Fly focused on the process of earning a pilot’s license, and the various services and programs based at Contra Costa County Airports that make that goal easier to attain. Airports staff is also constantly improving the website to improve usability and functionality, including news and event features that users may subscribe to and remain apprised of current issues and events at the Airports. Airports staff has convened the Economic Development Incentive Program, a working group of the Airports’ stakeholders, to help prioritize projects and programs that will best market the Buchanan Field and Byron Airport.

9. How can I report a pilot performing aerobatic maneuvers near residential developments? What is Airports staff doing to address this issue?: Once an aircraft has left the ground, it is in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) jurisdiction. Pilots that are flying low and/or unsafe may be reported directly to the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) by calling (510) 748-0122. You may also notify Airports staff by submitting an Airports Feedback Form. FAA regulations do allow for aerobatic aircraft operations in an area south of the City of Antioch and to the west of the City of Brentwood. While it is unlikely the aircraft are originating from Buchanan Field and/or Byron Airport, Airports staff has responded by sending out notices to all of its tenants at Buchanan Field and Byron Airports requesting that pilots not perform aerobatic operations near residential developments. An outreach was also sent to other Bay Area airports to provide the notice to their tenants of the community feedback Airports staff has received. This is an on-going task, and your sustained input and support is key to this community-wide process.

10. Are tours of Buchanan Field available to the public?: Yes. Typically, tours consist of 5-20 children and a maximum of one chaperone per three children. To schedule a tour, please visit our Airport Tour Program page under Community Resources and click on “Schedule a Tour” to fill out the application form.

11. Can I reserve the Public Viewing Plaza for a private event?

The Public Viewing Plaza is located at the end of John Glenn Drive in Concord and is available on a first come, first serve basis. It is not currently available to reserve for exclusive gatherings. The Plaza has three shaded picnic tables, several small play structures and a painted runway map for children. Live FAA communications with pilots are also broadcast via loud speaker for an exciting viewing experience.

Note: If you plan to hold a gathering at the Public Viewing Plaza, please refrain from bringing balloons or other things that might cause problems for aircraft operating at the Airport.

12. If I rent space at Buchanan Field or Byron Airport, can I pay my bill online?: Yes. ePay was made available in 2014, which allows County hangar and tie-down tenants to pay their invoices online using a bank account or credit card. A link to ePay is available on the Airports Home page of this website on the right-hand side under Quick Links.Contra Costa County ePay system is no longer accepting payments.

13. I am a pilot planning on flying to Buchanan Field. Where can I find information on Noise Abatement Procedures and preferred runways?: Thank you for visiting us! The Noise Management Program with noise abatement procedures and AirNav information for Buchanan Field is available on the Buchanan Field (CCR) page of this website.

14. Is flight training available at the County Airports?: Yes! For flight training, please contact one of the Buchanan Field’s Fixed Based Operators by visiting the "Airport Businesses" link on the Buchanan Field (CCR) page of this website.

15. What types of fuel are available at Buchanan Field and Byron Airports?: Buchanan Field has 100 Low Lead and Jet A fuel available offered by the Fixed Based Operators (FBO). More information on the FBO's may be found on the Airport Businesses link on the Buchanan Field (CCR) page of this website. Byron Airport (C83) has 100 Low Lead fuel available at a 24-hour self-service station, located south of the administrative building and current pricing is available on the Byron Airport (C83) page.

16. If there is no vacancy for hangars, why aren’t Buchanan Field and Byron Airport building more hangar space?: For information on development, please visit “Doing Business with the Airport” on the Airports Administration page of this website. Due to government contracting processes and prevailing wage requirements, the total development cost is approximately 30% higher for the County Airports to develop hangar space. The resultant rent to cover the development costs would be considerably higher than the market rate. The County Airports has focused on public/private partnerships as an alternative, to bring hangar space about more economically. Airports staff is also exploring costs and feasibility of other options for providing lower cost hangar space.

17. Is skydiving available at Buchanan Field or Byron Airports?: Yes. Skydiving is available at Byron Airport by contacting Bay Area Skydiving (see "Airport Businesses" link on the Byron Airport (C83) page of this website).

18. Where can I find information and rules regarding unmanned aircraft systems/drones?: There are separate rules for recreational, public entity, or business uses of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones as they are often called. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) website pertaining to UAS policies is available at www.faa.gov/uas. The "Know Before You Fly" campaign is another informational resource; available at www.knowbeforeyoufly.org.

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All-Electric Building Ordinance

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1. What are the benefits of adopting an all-electric new construction ordinance?

Reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced in Contra Costa County and will contribute to reducing the overall and local impact of climate change and associated risks
Reduce new building construction costs since natural gas infrastructure (plumbing, metering, and venting) are not needed
Help meet the County’s Climate Action Plan greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals
Carry out the County Board of Supervisor’s Climate Emergency Resolutions (Resolution No. 2020/256)
Improve indoor air quality and safety

2. What building types would the ordinance apply to?

This ordinance requires new construction of the following building types to be an all-electric building:

All residential buildings (including single-family and multi-family buildings)
Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)
Hotel
Office
Retail

3. What is an all-electric building?: The Ordinance defines an all-electric building as a building that has no natural gas or propane plumbing installed within the building, and that uses electricity as the sole source of energy for its space heating (including heating of all indoor and outdoor spaces of the building), water heating (including heating of indoor and outdoor pools and spas), cooking appliances, and clothes drying appliances. An all-electric building may utilize solar thermal pool heating.

4. Do all-electric buildings cost more?

Generally, for most building types, all-electric buildings are less costly to build. The service and piping for natural gas infrastructure is often more expensive than installing a building with all-electric equipment.

The California Statewide Reach Code Program has prepared cost effectiveness reports. View the reports on the California Reach Code website

5. Is Contra Costa County the only jurisdiction that’s adopted an all-electric building ordinance like this?: No, Contra Costa County is part of an ever-growing list of over 50 jurisdictions across that State that have adopted similar ordinances to phase out fossil fuels from new buildings.

6. Is there enough electricity supply to support new all-electric buildings?: State policy already indicates a shifting away from fossil fuels as a source of power towards greater use of renewable energy. While County staff are not involved in managing the State’s energy supply or grid infrastructure, multiple State agencies are deeply involved in planning for the State’s future energy needs. These agencies are dedicating tremendous resources and attention to address these concerns.

7. Won’t all-electric buildings be more vulnerable to Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events?: The State continues to work with utilities to reduce the need for PSPS events. However, such events will likely occur again in the future, subject to weather conditions. Property owners can mitigate their risk of losing power during PSPS events by installing a source of backup power, such as a generator or battery storage.

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All-Electric Building Ordinance for Developers

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1. I am currently filing for a building permit. How does it affect my building project?

The ordinance only applies to new construction of buildings that are residential (single-family, multi-family, or detached accessory dwelling units), Hotel, Office, or Retail.

Any permits issued on or after June 1, 2022, for New Construction of all Residential, Retail, Office, and Hotel buildings are required to be All-Electric (no natural gas allowed). Beginning April 1, 2022, building permit applications subject to the ordinance must be designed to be all-electric (no natural gas allowed).

2. Does this ordinance apply to building remodel activities?: The ordinance does not pertain to any additions, alterations or tenant improvements to any existing buildings, including any attached accessory dwelling units. Additionally, it does not preclude anyone from installing natural gas for any existing buildings, including other allowed ancillary uses to existing buildings, such as pools, spas, or other similar outdoor equipment.

3. Is my project subject to the all-electric ordinance requirement if my project has both retail and restaurant uses proposed?: Any proposed development approved for restaurant use would be allowed to install natural gas. However, any retail uses in a proposed commercial development would be subject to the all-electric requirement (no natural gas allowed). This means that in some commercial projects natural gas may be allowed for some uses in the commercial building (i.e., restaurants).

4. My project is proposing to include emergency backup power. Is the backup power required to be all-electric?: No, emergency backup power can be fossil-fuel operated, if its sole purpose is for emergency backup power.

5. Am I allowed to include solar/thermal heating features in my project?: Yes, new construction of all building types included in the all-electric ordinance are allowed to use solar/thermal heating in their project.

6. Are there exemptions to the All-Electric Building Ordinance?

Yes, the following are not subject to the All-Electric Requirements

Existing Buildings Not Subject to All-Electric Requirement
The ordinance does not pertain to any additions, alterations or tenant improvements to any existing buildings, including any attached accessory dwelling units. Additionally, it does not preclude anyone from installing natural gas for any existing buildings, including other allowed ancillary uses to existing buildings, such as pools, spas, or other similar outdoor equipment.
Backup Power
The ordinance does not prohibit the use of emergency backup power sources, such as generators, that may be fossil-fuel operated.
Vested Rights
The ordinance exempts some development projects that have obtained an approved vesting tentative map, development agreement, or other vested right pursuant to applicable law, prior to the operative date (June 1, 2022) of the ordinance.

7. My project proposal includes a pool. Does the pool need to be all-electric?

If the project applicant proposes a new residential home or multi-family building that includes a pool, spa, or other similar outdoor ancillary uses, the project would be required to be all-electric. Under this circumstance, the pool may utilize solar thermal pool heating.

Proposed pools, spas, or other such ancillary uses to any existing residential buildings, including existing residential buildings that were subject to the all-electric ordinance when they were initially constructed, are not subject to the all-electric ordinance.

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Animal Services

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1. What number do I call for information on...?

General Information: (925) 608-8400 or (510) 942-4530
Call with questions or concerns about injured or stray animals, lost and found pets, animal cruelty concerns, policy and procedure questions, or questions about animal laws.
Licensing: (833) 259-2136
Spay/Neuter Clinic: (925) 608-8420
Assistance with lost or stray animals:
Information on becoming an Animal Services Volunteer:
Humane Education: (925) 608-8440 for information on classroom presentations.

2. How do I make a complaint?: Call (925) 608-8400 or (510) 374-3966 with questions or concerns regarding stray animals or wildlife. For noisy animals, see our web page.

3. Foreclosure and pets . . . what can I do?: If you are unable to care for your pets due to foreclosure difficulties, you have the option to surrender them to Animal Services. Call us at 925-608-8400 for more information. You might also visit the Resources page.
East Bay SPCA website.

4. What will a dog license cost me?: It depends on whether your dog is spayed or neutered.Go to the Licensing page for more information.
information.

5. Where are the Animal Services shelters located?

We have two locations:

Martinez Shelter 4800 Imhoff Place Martinez, CA 94553-4393 (925) 608-8400
Pinole Shelter 910 San Pablo Avenue Pinole, CA 94564-2632 (510) 942-4530

6. What are your hours?

Martinez and Pinole Shelters
Tuesday through Saturday
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Wednesdays
10:00 am to 7:00 pm

We are closed Sunday, Monday, major holidays

Spay/Neuter Clinic (Martinez Shelter only)
Phone hours:
Tuesday - Friday
9 am to 12 noon and 1 pm to 4 pm
925-335-8320
NOTE: Spay/neuter surgeries are by appointment only; pets scheduled for surgery must be at the Spay/Neuter Clinic between 7:30 am and 8 am on the morning of surgery.

Saturday
Vaccination Drop-In Clinic (no appointment needed)
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

7. I am a senior citizen. Am I eligible for a reduced dog license fee?: If you are 65 years of age or older, you are eligible for a reduced dog license fee, one per household. Proof of age is required. Call Licensing at 925-608-8410 for more information.

8. Where can I find out about dangerous animal laws?: Information on dangerous animals and potentially dangerous animals is located under the Animal Ordinance section of the County Code, Division 416-12.

9. Does my dog always have to be on a leash?: Yes, your dog must be on a leash and under your control unless s/he is on your property, the property of a consenting adult, or on property such as a dog park where the off-leash conditions are designated by appropriate signage or regulation(s). Contra Costa County enforces a "leash law," which forbids dogs from being at large or "loose" (with certain exemptions). See County Code Animal Ordinance, Division 416-4.402

10. Where can I get information on animal laws in Contra Costa County.: You are welcome to call us for information at (925) 608-8400. The Contra Costa County Code will also provide the information on animal laws in this county.
Code.

11. How do I report abuse or neglect of an animal?: Call our general information line at 925-608-8400 to report suspected abuse or neglect of an animal.

12. Who do I call about injured wildlife?: Call Animal Services at (925) 608-8400 for advice about wildlife that you think might be injured. Also, Lindsay Wildlife Museum is a local organization which operates an on-site wildlife hospital in Walnut Creek, CA. Call (925) 935-1978 for more information or visit their
website.

13. How do I get rid of wild turkeys in my yard?: Animal Services is unable to respond to wild turkey situations, unless the turkey is injured or creating a public safety hazard. The California Department of Fish and Game may be able to help you. For more information, check the Fish and Game website for advice and suggestions on living with wild turkeys.

14. How much does it cost to adopt an animal?: Fees vary depending on the animal being adopted. Please see our Animal Adoption Fees page for more information.
information.

15. What are the requirements to adopt an animal?: You must be 18 years or older with a valid ID. Also, if you are a renter, the landlord's name and address are required.

16. What forms of payment are acceptable?: Adoptions and services may be paid by cash, check (with valid ID), VISA or MasterCard.

17. Why does my animal have to be altered and microchipped at adoption?: In an effort to reduce pet overpopulation, it is our policy that all of our animals are altered (spayed or neutered) as a condition of adoption. We microchip all animals to help ensure the safe return of a lost pet.

18. Do you have low-income vet care?: At this time, we do not offer low-income veterinary services. We suggest you search the internet, yellow pages, or call your local veterinarian.

19. West Nile Virus - how do I report a dead bird or squirrel?: Animal Services does not pick up dead birds or squirrels. If you want to report a dead bird or squirrel for possible West Nile Virus contamination, call 1-877-968-2473 or visit the State website.
WestNile.ca.gov.

20. Skunks are living in my yard. . . how do I get rid of them?: If you find a dead or injured skunk, or believe a skunk has had contact with people or pets, DON'T HANDLE IT or try to trap it. Call Animal Services at 925-608-8400 for assistance. For helpful information on living safely with skunks or to request a skunk inspection, call the Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District at 925-685-9301, ext. 190, or visit their
website.

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Annual Public Auction Tax Sale

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1. How can I obtain a list of properties to be offered at the tax sale?

A list of tax-defaulted properties to be offered for sale is available on the Tax Collector’s website at least 21 days prior to the tax sale. Visit our website regularly for tax sale announcements.

Remember--because property owners have the right to redeem their property prior to the sale, the final list of parcels to be offered for sale will not be available until the day of the sale. Auction list sales are final. Updated information on properties that remain in the sale is available online or at the Tax Collector’s office.

2. How do I find or see a property I'd like to bid on at the tax sale?: Vacant ("unimproved") land (which accounts for most property offered at our tax sales) usually has no address and therefore its approximate geographic location can be determined through the use of County Assessor plat maps. Exact boundary lines of a property can be determined only by a survey of the property initiated at the purchaser’s expense. "Improved" properties frequently (but not always) will bear a "situs" (street) address, making it quite simple to assess the location. A "situs" (street) address does not mean there are improvements on the property or that the improvements are included in the sale.

3. Is a tax sale publicly advertised?: Yes. State law dictates that the event of a tax sale must be published three times in successive seven day intervals before the tax sale date in a newspaper, or newspapers of general circulation within Contra Costa County. All parcels in the next tax sale will be advertised in local newspapers, the first publication date being not less than 21 days prior to the date of the sale. These parcels will also be listed on the Tax Collector’s website during the same time period.

4. How do I enroll in a tax sale?: Please review the Registration Information handout available in our office or on our web site, www.cctax.us, for additional information and requirements and application deadlines. Prospective purchasers are required to register as a bidder on the GovEase.com website. Each bidder will have to electronically sign or fill out any registration documents. In addition, a single $5,000.00 deposit and a $35.00 registration fee is required to get approved to bid in the auction. The registration fee is non-refundable. All deposits and registrations must be received by GovEase no later than the Friday two weeks before the date the sale begins. If you need help, you can email [email protected] or call 769-208-5050, ext. 2. Credit cards are not an acceptable form of payment. Registration can be done online at www.GovEase.com. All unused deposits will be refunded by GovEase within seven to ten business days after the sale. Please review the California training articles and videos on the GovEase.

5. Can I mail in or submit a sealed bid for a property in the public auction sale?: No. The tax sale will be conducted online.

6. Can I obtain a property available at the public auction tax sale by paying the delinquent taxes thereon prior to the tentative tax sale date?: No. Legal title to tax-defaulted property subject to power of sale can be obtained through the Treasurer and Tax Collector only by being the successful bidder at the tax sale.

7. What guarantees do I have that the property is in good condition and can be used for my purposes?

The sale of these properties should not, in any way, be equated to real estate sales by licensed salespeople, brokers or realtors. The Treasurer-Tax Collector cannot guarantee the condition of the property nor assume any responsibility for conformance to codes, permits or zoning ordinances.

The burden is on the purchaser to thoroughly research, before the sale, any matters relevant to his or her decision to purchase, rather than on the county, whose sole interest is the recovery of back taxes. It is also recommended that bidders consult with the zoning and planning departments of any city within which a particular parcel lies. ALL PROPERTIES ARE SOLD "AS IS" AND ALL SALES ARE FINAL.

8. Do all properties with an address have a home on them?: No. An address does not mean there is or was a structure on the property. It does not guarantee that the address shown in the tax sale list is correct or that the structure is part of the sale.

9. How soon can I take possession of a property after my purchase at the tax sale?: The successful bidder may take possession of a property after the Tax Deed to Purchaser has been recorded.

10. How is the minimum bid on a tax sale property determined?: State law dictates that the minimum bid for property offered at a public auction tax sale be an amount not less than the total amount necessary to redeem the tax default, plus cost. Except pursuant to Section 3698.5(c) of the California Revenue and Taxation Code, when property interests have been offered at a previous sale and no acceptable bids were received, the Tax Collector may offer that property or property interest at a minimum bid that is less than the amount of the tax default, plus cost.

11. When does the right of redemption on a tax-defaulted parcel subject to the power to sell cease?: The right of redemption on a tax-defaulted parcel subject to the Tax Collector’s power to sell ceases at the close of business on the last day prior to the date of sale. There is no extended right of redemption in the State of California. Redemption by mail with Certified or Cashier’s Check must be received in our office by the last business day prior to the date of the sale. Our mailing address is Tax Collector, Attn: Redemption, P.O. Box 631, Martinez, CA 94553.

12. How soon may I begin improvement of the property after my purchase?: There is a one year period of time, after the date the tax deed is executed that a proceeding based on alleged invalidity or irregularity can be commenced, pursuant to Section 3725 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code.

13. What happens to the properties that do not sell at the auction? Can tax sale properties be purchased directly from the County?: If no acceptable bids are received for a property, it may be offered again at a future Tax Sale. Legal title to tax-defaulted property subject to power of sale can be obtained through the Treasurer - Tax Collector only by being the successful bidder at the tax sale. Additionally, pursuant to Section 3698.5(c) of said code, the Tax Collector may re-offer the property at any time for a minimum bid that is set at the discretion of the Tax Collector and approved by the County Board of Supervisors.

14. What are the conditions of payment for property at the Tax Sale?

Payment in full by wire transfer or ACH will be required within 24 hours of the close of the auction. No business checks, personal checks or credit cards will be accepted. A 3% Buyers Premium will be included during the live bidding and will reflect in the final purchase price.

Purchasers of property at the tax sale must also pay a Documentary Transfer Tax on the amount of the bid. The tax is based on the rate of $.55 for each $500 or fractional part of each $500 when the bid exceeds $100.

Purchasers of property within the city of Richmond must also pay a City Transfer Tax in addition to the Documentary Transfer Tax. The rate for this city tax is $7 per $1,000 of the purchase price.

Purchasers of property within the city of El Cerrito must also pay a city Transfer Tax in addition to the Documentary Transfer Tax. The rate for this city tax is $12 per $1,000 or fraction thereof.

15. Do liens or encumbrances on Tax Sale properties transfer to the new owner through a Tax sale property purchase?

Chapter 7, Section 3712 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code states: “The deed conveys title to the purchaser free of all encumbrances of any kind existing before the sale, except:

(a) Any lien for installments of taxes and special assessments, which installments will become payable upon the secured roll after the time of sale.

(b) The lien for taxes or assessments or other rights of any taxing agency which does not consent to the sale under this chapter.

(c) Liens for special assessments levied upon the property conveyed which were, at the time of the sale under this chapter, not included in the amount necessary to redeem the tax-defaulted property, and, where a taxing agency which collects its own taxes has consented to the sale under this chapter, not included in the amount required to redeem from sale to the taxing agency.

(d) Easements constituting servitude upon or burdens to the property; water rights, the record title to which is held separately from the title to the property; and restrictions of record.

(e) Unaccepted, recorded, irrevocable offers of dedication of the property to the public or a public entity for a public purpose, and recorded options of any taxing agency to purchase the property or any interest therein for a public purpose.

(f) Unpaid assessments under the Improvement Bond Act of 1915 (Division 10 [commencing with Section 8500] of the Streets and Highways Code) which are not satisfied as a result of the sale proceeds being applied pursuant to Chapter 1.3 (commencing with Section 4671) Part 8.

(g) Any federal Internal Revenue Service liens which, pursuant to provisions of federal law, are not discharged by the sale, even though the tax collector has provided proper notice to the Internal Revenue Service before that date.”

(h) Unpaid special taxes under the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982 (Chapter 2.5 [commencing with Section 53311] of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government Code) that are not satisfied as a result of the sale proceeds being applied pursuant to Chapter 1.3 (commencing with Section 4671) of Part 8.”

Note: A title search initiated at the prospective purchaser(s)’ expense should reveal any liens or encumbrances on a property in the tax sale.

16. How can I determine what use I can make of a Tax Sale property before I purchase it?: Consult the zoning and planning departments of any city within which a property lies or the County’s Building Inspection Department for property in unincorporated areas regarding use of the parcel. The County Recorder’s records should be consulted for any recorded easements on a property.

17. How do I obtain information on Tax Lien Certificate Sales?: The Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector does NOT offer tax lien certificates.

18. How can I get parcel maps of the properties?: Copies of the parcel maps can be purchased from the County Assessor's Office.

19. How will the title in the deed to the purchaser be vested?: Title is vested in the name of the actual purchaser at the sale as provided at the time of registration to the GovEase.com website. If title is to be vested differently, we require a notarized letter from the individual you are acting as an agent for, stating the manner in which title is to be vested.

20. Are properties sold at auction on an "AS IS" basis?: YES! Should the successful purchaser desire a survey of the property, it will be at the purchaser's own initiative and expense. No warranty is made by the County, either expressed or implied, relative to the usability, the ground location, or property lines of the properties. The exact location, desirability, and usefulness of the properties must be determined by the prospective purchaser.

The County assumes no liability for any other possible liens, encumbrances or easements, recorded or not recorded. When property is sold at tax sale on which the IRS holds a tax lien, the United States has the right of redemption for 120 days from the date of such sale (26 USC Sec. 3712(g) and 7425(d)). The IRS will pay the actual amount paid for the property by the bidder, plus interest at 6% per annum from the date of sale, plus the expenses of sale that exceed any income received from the property.

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Assessment Appeals

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1. How do I withdraw my application?: Your request must be in writing, either on a withdraw form (from the Assessor) or via letter or email to the Assessment Appeals Clerk; you may contact the Clerk via email or phone to confirm receipt. After the Board meets to review your request, you will receive a written Notice approving your withdrawal.

2. Can I choose my hearing date?: All appeals hearings are scheduled for Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. You will be sent a written Notice approximately 45 days prior to the hearing. If that date does not work for you, send a written request to the Assessment Appeals Clerk to postpone the hearing to another date.

3. Does an Assessment Appeal hearing guarantee that my taxes will go down?: The hearing only provides you an opportunity for an unbiased Board to hear the facts from the Assessor’s Office and from you. The Board will make an independent ruling based on the facts presented by both sides.

4. Do I have to return the Notice that I will appear at the hearing?: Yes, you must return the Notice indicating your intent to appear. If you do not return the Notice, then your hearing will automatically be cancelled. However, you should continue to work closely with the Assessor’s Office to resolve the dispute.

5. My property value has declined during the past few years. What should I do?: You may call the Assessor’s Office for an value revision under Proposition 8 .
You may also file a formal assessment appeal ($40 application fee) to get on the calendar for a formal hearing. Proposition 8 (925-313-7400)

6. My taxes are too high and I can’t pay them. What should I do?: If you believe your property value has declined, you may the Assessor’s Office for an informal value revision (925-313-7400). You may also wish to review the various other items on your property tax bill to see if you qualify for any exemptions (elderly, disabled). Tax Collector’s website

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Assessor's Office

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1. My property value was reduced under Proposition 8. Now the Assessment has increased. Why?: Proposition 8 provides that your taxable value does not exceed the current market value of the property. Once a value is temporarily reduced under Proposition 8, it is reviewed annually and adjusted, according to the market value. Once the market value exceeds the adjusted base value, it will be restored.

2. What is a Supplemental Assessment?: State law requires the Assessor to reappraise property as of the date of the change-in-ownership or completion of new construction. The Assessor's Office must issue a supplemental assessment which reflects the difference between the prior assessed value and the new assessment. This value is then prorated based on the number of months remaining in the fiscal year ending June 30. This supplemental is in addition to the regular tax bill.

3. What about NEW CONSTRUCTION reappraisals?: Copies of all building permits are sent to the Assessor's Office by the cities and County. If the construction is new (such as a room addition), a reappraisal is required. If the construction is for replacement, repair, or maintenance, a reappraisal may not be required. In appraising new construction, the market value of the addition is determined and added to the value of the existing property. The existing property, however, is not reappraised. As with a change-in-ownership, the owner is notified of the new assessment and can appeal the value.

4. Is property assessed at the price paid?: Not always. Real property is valued at its current market value on the date it changes ownership. In a majority of cases, the sales price equals market value, but not always.

5. Are there special programs available for Senior Citizens?

The property tax reimbursement or postponement programs once available to senior citizens and to persons who are blind, disabled, or who have difficulty paying property taxes have been eliminated.

Property Tax Reimbursement

The Franchise Tax Board's Homeowner Assistance program provided property tax relief to persons who were blind, disabled, or at least 62 years old, and met certain minimum annual income thresholds. However, the state budget deleted funding for this Program that once provided cash reimbursement of a portion of the property taxes that you paid on your home. For more information, call the Franchise Tax Board at 1-800-852-5711.

Property Tax Postponement

The State Controller's Property Tax Postponement program allowed persons who are blind, disabled, or at least 62 years old, and meet certain minimum annual income thresholds to postpone their property taxes. However, the state budget eliminated the Property Tax Postponement Program. For more information, call the State Controller's Office at 1-800-952-5661 or 916-327-5587.

6. Is there a Builder's Exclusion?

Many taxpayers in the construction industry are unaware that under Section 75.12 of the Revenue and Taxation Code they can be legally exempted from payment of supplemental tax bills resulting from the completion of new construction, simply by requesting a "Builder's Exclusion."

Effective January 1, 2006, developers of single-family subdivisions of five lots or more are granted an automatic builder’s exclusion upon recording the subdivision map. To be granted the Builder’s Exclusion on fewer than five single-family lots or on other types of property, you must submit a letter requesting the exclusion prior to or within 30 days of the start of new construction on land development and/or improvements. The parcels for which you are requesting an exclusion must be intended for resale, and for no other purpose than that incidental to resale, such as a model home. In short, this means that builders should submit a request for an exclusion as soon as they buy raw land intended for development.

Recommendations: Apply for the exclusion as soon as the land is purchased. Apply for the whole tract. If builder's exclusion is granted on the parent parcel and the parcel splits there is no need to reapply. Builders should be aware that after the exclusion is granted they are still responsible for payment of supplemental tax bills based upon the purchase of land for development, and for payment of annual secured tax bills based on the value of land and new construction complete or incomplete on January 1 of each year. Builders owning parcels protected by a builder's Exclusion are also cautioned that should they begin using these parcels for a purpose other than resale, such as rentals, they are required to notify the Assessor's Office of this fact within 45 days after such non-resale use begins.

Requests for Builder's Exclusions should be addressed to: Gus S. Kramer, Assessor ASR Division 2530 Arnold Drive, Suite 400 Martinez, CA 94553 For further information call (925)313-7400.

7. I am over 55 and wish to move to a smaller home. Will my taxes go up?: Proposition 60 was passed by the voters in 1986 allowing those 55 and over to transfer the assessed value of their principal residence to a replacement residence in the same county if the value of the new residence is equal to or less than that of the original residence when sold. A claim form must be timely filed with the Assessor's Office to qualify. Contra Costa County does not accept transfers from other counties. For additional information regarding this exclusion, see R and T code 69.5 or contact our office at (925) 313-7400

8. What is the Williamson Act (Ag Preserve)?: The California Land Conservation Act of 1965, commonly referred to as the Williamson Act, is a tax relief measure for owners of land. The act permits a landowner to sign a contract with the County or City guaranteeing that the land will be preserved for a period of at least 10 years. In return for this guarantee, the Assessor annually values land and growing improvements in the Act using a restricted income approach rather than the market value. The owner will get the benefit of being taxed on the lower of the total base year value, current market value, or restricted (AG Preserve) value. Generally, this means the taxes for the farmer are reduced, sometimes greatly. You must apply to the County Planning Department by October 15 to receive Williamson Act benefits for the following tax year if you wish to place your farm property into the AG Preserve. The Assessor's Office may require you to report data pertaining to your agriculture parcels via an annual AG Preserve Questionnaire.

9. When is Real Estate reappraised?

Under State law (Proposition 13), real property is reappraised only when a change-in-ownership occurs, or upon completion of new construction. Except for these two instances, property assessments cannot be increased by more than 2% annually, based on the California Consumer Price Index. The property tax rate is 1% plus any voter approved bonds, fees, or special charges.

When a sale or transfer occurs, the Assessor's Office receives a copy of the deed and determines if a reappraisal is required under State law. If it is required, an appraisal is made to determine the new market value of the property. The owner is then notified of the new assessment and has the right to appeal the value.

The transfer of property between husband and wife does not require a reappraisal for property tax purposes. This includes transfers resulting from divorce or death. In addition, a refinancing will not cause a reappraisal.

10. If I have an addition to my home, will you reappraise the entire property?: No. Only the value of your new addition will be added to your current assessed value.

11. If I do the work myself, will I only be assessed on the cost of the materials?: No. New construction is assessed at the market value added to the property as of the date of completion, or on January 1, if incomplete.

12. Are mobile homes subject to property taxes?: Newly purchased mobile homes, and those on permanent foundations, are subject to property taxes. As with real property, the assessed value of mobile homes cannot be increased by more than 2% annually unless there is a change in-ownership or new construction. Older mobile homes bought before June 30, 1980 generally are not subject to property taxes. They are licensed under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Housing and Community Development.
As a result of recent State legislation, the purchase of a mobile home park by the residents will not cause a reassessment. Property taxes will remain at their current level and be prorated among the spaces.

13. When can I appeal my assessed value?: Under State law, if the January 1 market value of your property falls below the assessed or taxable value as shown on the tax bill issued in the same year (i.e., January 1, 2009 and tax bill fiscal year 2009/10 issued September 2009), the Assessor’s Office is required to lower the assessment. This type of property tax relief generally applies to recently purchased property. Appeals may be filed between July 2 and November 30 for the annual roll. For supplemental events, or escaped assessments, the appeal must be filed within 60 day of the mailing date of the notice. Appeal forms can be obtained and must be filed with the Clerk of the Board. For more information, call (925) 655-2008.

14. What and when is a lien date?: The lien date is the day that the taxes become a debt on the property and/or owners, even though the valuation and tax bills have not yet been computed and mailed. The tax lien date is January 1. (R&T Code 2192)

15. Why are my neighbor's and my tax bills different when the houses are the same?: Proposition 13, passed by the voters in June 1978, established 1975 as the original base year value and requires that the base value of a property be established as of the date of change of ownership, or as of the date of completion of new construction. If you and your neighbor purchased your properties in different years or have different construction dates, your base values reflect different market values.

16. What happens if I don't pay these taxes?: The issue of non-payment of taxes needs to be addressed with the Tax Collector's office. Their phone number is (925) 957-5280 or visit
Tax Collector

17. How do you calculate taxes?: The taxes are calculated by the Auditor-Controller. Property tax rates vary by area. In Contra Costa County the tax rates average approximately 1.1% of the property's taxable value. For instance, if the taxable value is $10,000, the property taxes could be about $110. Contact the Auditor-Controller at(925) 646-2236 or
Auditor-Controller

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Board of Supervisors District III

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1. Where Can I Get A Building Permit?: Please visit the Planning department for a permit.
Planning Department

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Building Permit Processing - Conservation & Development

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1. When do I need a permit?

Almost all projects require permits. These include, but are not limited to, new structures, demolitions, additions, alterations, interior/exterior remodels, running new electrical, water or gas lines, repairs, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, pavilions, decks, carports, garages, docks, pools, foundation repairs, ADUs, and Junior ADUs, solar, energy storage systems, and backup generators.

Work not requiring a building permit

Read Construction Work NOT requiring a Building Permit (PDF)
See Section 106.2 of the California Building Code for further exemptions.

Exemption from the permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of any County code or ordinance.
Please call us if you have any questions 925-655-2700.

2. Who can pull a permit?

The 2019 California Building Code allows for the following individuals to pull permits. This will be the permit APPLICANT

State Licensed Contractor in good standing with the California State Contractor’s License Board (CSLB)
Owner-Builder (including a Trust or Corporation) - This may require proof of ownership
- Requires submission of the Owner Builder Acknowledgement and Verification of Information Form (PDF)
- May require proof of ownership and
Authorized Agent (including Designers or Architect) on behalf of an Owner-Builder or licensed contractor

For more detailed information, please see our Who can Obtain a Building Permit (PDF).

Important Information for Applicants:

The APPLICANT is whomever applies for the permit, whether it is the design professional, licensed contractor, property owner or property owner's agent.
The APPLICANT will be the point of contact for the life of the permit and will be the only permit contact to receive all email notifications. Our ePermits Center is unable to email all parties related to the permit.
The APPLICANT is responsible in notifying the parties related to the permit of any updates, plan reviewer requests, etc.
If the APPLICANT does not receive or see any email updates, check the Applicant's email spam or junk folder.
Although we allow design professionals to apply online, we cannot issue the permit or plans to the design professional per California Health and Safety Code sections 19825 & 19826. The design professional applicant will be required to identify the contractor or property owner to whom the permit will be issued to. One of the two forms below is required to be completed, signed and submitted by the contractor or property owner before the permit can be issued.
- Contractor Permit Declaration form
- Property Owner-Builder Acknowledgement form

3. When do I need plans?

Almost all projects require plans. These include, but are not limited to, new structures, demolitions, additions, alterations, interior/exterior remodels, running new electrical, water or gas lines, repairs, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, pavilions, decks, carports, garages, docks, pools, foundation repairs, ADUs, and Junior ADUs, solar, energy storage systems, and backup generators.

Important note: The Building Department conducts plan review and cannot give advice on how to create your plan. We recommend contacting licensed professionals when applicable.

4. What should my plans show? How should they be formatted?

What should my plans show?

Most projects will require Architectural, Structural, Electrical, and often Mechanical and Plumbing plans. Many details and calculations are also required, often these include structural and Title 24 energy calculations. Your design professional is the best resource to help you have a complete submittal.

When is a Licensed Professional Required to Prepare Plans Guide (PDF)
Example of a Site Plan (PDF)
Residential Plan Submittal Requirements Checklist (PDF)
Commercial Plan Submittal Requirements Checklist (PDF)
All plans must show the property address, scope and current code cycle.

What size do my plans need to be?

Plans must be submitted in the same size they were drawn in to preserve scale,and should be of sufficient size and clarity for the project.
We will not accept plans in 8.5" x 11" (letter) size.
Minimum plan size is 11" x 17"; this may work for simple, small projects such as bathroom remodels or window changeouts. For legibility, however, most projects require larger plans such as 18" x 24" or 24" x 36". The size of your project determines the required plan size.

What format do my plans need to be in?

All plans must be submitted electronically through the ePermits Center
Plans must be an unsecured PDF file to allow for county comments, stamps and approvals. Secured files will be rejected.
PDF Portfolio files or ZIP files of multiple PDF files are not accepted and will be rejected.
Plans shall not be images, such as .jpgs, .gifs, .tiff, .bmp, etc. or AutoCAD (or similar) format. PDF files of images are also not acceptable – images made into PDFs do not scale property to meet size requirements.
Please read Requirements for Preparing Electronic Plans Submittals (PDF) for further guidance.

5. Do my plans require Planning approval?

Planning approval is required for the following:

Construct a new building or structure,
Changing the use on the site
Changing the size, height, and dimensions, or other exterior changes to an existing building or structure.
Design review for special areas (Kensington, Historic Districts, etc.)
Adding an ADU or a Jr ADU requires planning approval.
Business License secured for projects in the City of Clayton and City of Hercules.

The Planning Agency depends on where your property is located.

Unincorporated County Planning Approval

Planning Approval provided through the ePermits Center system.
View Planning Webpage
Phone: 925-655-2700
Make a Planning Appointment

City Planning Approvals

The County provides building permits for the following cities, but each city provides planning approval. Please contact the City's Planning department below for more information.

You will be required to upload the approved city planning application and approved plans in PDF format when you apply for a building permit on the ePermits Center.

City of Clayton
- City of Clayton Planning Department Website
- Phone: 925-673-7300
City of Hercules
- City of Hercules Planning Department Website
- Phone: 510-799-8248
City of Lafayette
- City of Lafayette Planning Department Website
- Phone: 925-284-1976
City of Orinda
- City of Orinda Planning Department Website
- Phone: 925-253-4210
Town of Moraga
- Town of Moraga Planning Department Website
- Phone: 925-888-7050

6. Who else needs to approve my plans?

You may need your plans to be reviewed and approved by planning, sanitation agency, fire, or public works prior to submitting your building permit application.

Please note that it is your responsibility to make sure you have approvals from all required agencies prior to submitting to the Building Department.

Approval Requirements

7. Do I need Sanitation District or septic tank approval for my plans?

Sanitation District Approval for Sewer Service

You will be required to provide sanitary district approved plans at final inspection for newly constructed buildings and detached structures with plumbing.

Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Approval for Septic Tanks

EHS approved plans will be required at application submittal.

What are the Sanitary District Requirements?

Sanitary District staff will review the project plans to ensure there will be no adverse impacts on the sanitary sewer system and no encroachment into a sanitary sewer easement.
Please see our Sanitary Districts (PDF) page to determine your district and specific requirements.
We urge applicants to contact the appropriate district prior to beginning construction. It is the applicant's responsibility to receive sanitary approval.

The following projects require Sanitary or Environmental Health review:

New residences, ADU’s and commercial buildings.
Any project that includes excavation work for a foundation or pier, or which upon completion would prevent access to sanitary sewer facilities for routine maintenance and repairs. Examples include new structures, demolitions, additions, pools, decks, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, retaining walls, cabanas, ground mount solar systems, pergolas/trellises/pavilions/gazebos, and carports
Residential additions/remodels with new fixtures requiring new drains or new fixtures that will increase the rate of flow into an existing plumbing system served by a sewer or septic system.
All commercial tenant improvement projects will require sanitary approval whether or not plumbing is a part of the project.
New or modifications to public pools or spas.
Properties with septic systems which are not served by a public sewer need EHS approval.
Additions on properties that contain a septic system must be reviewed by Contra Costa Environmental Health.

8. When do I need Fire Department Approval?

Fire department approval will be required if your project is for new residential buildings, new commercial buildings or any residential/commercial change of use.

In some cases, remodeling or adding an addition to an existing structure may also require fire department approval.

Contact your local Fire Department for their specific requirements and plan approval.

9. Does Public Works need to approve my plans?: If your project is in the Unincorporated County and work is being done in the public right of way, contact CCC Public Works at 925-313-2000 for encroachment permit or other permit requirements.

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Business License Tax

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1. Who is required to have a license?: A person who conducts business in or is based from the unincorporated area of the County of Contra Costa must obtain a business license.

2. How much will the Business License cost?: The annual cost to do business in the unincorporated area of the County is $100 plus $10 per employee. New businesses shall have fees pro-rated from the beginning of the quarter in which the business is established.
Your license is current for the license year in which you obtain it and must be renewed each July 1 as long as you are in business. A 25% penalty charge and 18% per annum interest rate are imposed if license tax is not paid on time.

3. What is required to obtain a Business License?

The Business License is evidence only that your tax has been paid. Other permits may be required to open your business.

Every business must at least meet zoning and building requirements to ensure that its business category and site are compatible before signing any leases and moving in. Check with the County Zoning/Planning Department to make sure you locate your business at an address where it is allowed and that it does not heavily impact the neighborhood or require special parking consideration.

Also, if your business name is anything other than your surname or has more than one owner -- a partnership, association, or company -- you may need to file a fictitious business name with the County Clerk's Office, (925) 335-7900. Should you accidentally "infringe" upon another business, you may face legal action and will have to pay to re-file your Business License -- and that gets expensive. So, it is a good idea to do this before you apply for the Business License.

A copy of the fictitious name certification is required with your business license application.

4. What businesses are exempt from having a business license?: County’s Business License Ordinance may grant an exemption to a business based on its type (i.e., agriculture or non-profit). An application for exemption statement must be filed annually with the Tax Collector. Depending on the type of exemption you are applying for you must submit with your statement a proof of exempt status such as State or Federal certification or other documents if any. If you are mailing your application or stopping at our office, you must include a copy of your proof. Failure to submit proof may cause us to deny or delay processing of your application.

5. Do State Licensed contractors need a Business License too?: Any person licensed as a contractor by the State Contractor's Board must obtain a Business License if 1) conducting business in the unincorporated areas of the County, whether based in or outside of this area, or 2) if based in the unincorporated area of the County, whether conducting business in or outside this area.
A copy of your current State Contractor’s License is required with your business license application.

6. How do I apply?: Applications may be filed in person at the Treasurer - Tax Collector's office or by mail at: Treasurer-Tax Collector's Office Business License Tax Division 625 Court Street, Room 100 Martinez, CA 94553-0063, or online at Business License Application.

7. What must be filed with the application?: References, photographs, fingerprints, documents, proof of insurance and/or special forms may be required in addition to the Business License application, depending on the nature of the business activity to be conducted.

8. What if I don't get a Business License?: Conducting business in the unincorporated area of the County of Contra Costa without a license can result in penalties, notice of violations, and finally, court action.

9. What if I have more than one place of business in the unincorporated area of the County?: If you own more than one place of business, you need a separate license for every branch establishment or separate place of business. The flat fee portion of the business license tax is assessed on one location. The employee fee is assessed for employees at all locations within the unincorporated area.

10. What if my business is transient or temporary?: If your business is transient or temporary, you must still acquire a business license, which is $100 per day. All daily licenses are due in advance by at least the day prior to start of business. Even if you conduct business on a part-time, limited, or hobby-related basis, you are required to obtain a current business license.

11. How long is this license good for?: Your license is current for the license year in which you obtain it and must be renewed each July 1 as long as you are in business.

12. Will the County notify me when to renew my license?: Yes. However, it is your responsibility to obtain a renewal license whether or not a renewal notice is received. Penalties are assessed for delinquent accounts, regardless of whether you receive a renewal notice or not. If you do NOT receive a notice by July 1, contact our office at (925) 608-9500, immediately.

13. How do I close my Business License?

In order to close your business license account, just return your copy of the Business License, with a letter stating that you wish to close your account, to our office using the following address:

Treasurer-Tax Collector's Office
Attn: Business Tax Division
P.O. Box 631
Martinez, CA 94553

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Cable TV and CCTV, Office of Communications and Media

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1. What channel is CCTV?: CCTV is Comcast channel 27, Astound channels 32 & 1027 and AT&T U-verse channel 99.

2. What channel is CCTV on the Dish Network and Direct TV?: CCTV is not on satellite television. It is only available to cable subscribers.

3. I missed a program. Will it air again?: Please see our broadcast schedule.
Broadcast Schedule

4. When can I watch the Board of Supervisor meeting?: Live on Tuesdays at 9:30 am and replayed on Thursdays at 6:00 pm. Archived meetings are available on the Board of Supervisors website.

5. How can I get a DVD of an event that Contra Costa Television taped?: Fill out a DVD request form.
DVD Duplication Form.

6. Do you give tours?: We have a small facility and can accommodate small groups. Most tours last about an hour and are delivered in an age-appropriate manner. Call 313-1180 to schedule a tour.

7. I thought I reached Comcast? I have a problem with my cable / internet.: You have reached the Office of Communications and Media/CCTV. Comcast’s number is (800) 945-2288.

8. How are cable television franchise fees used?: The cable television franchise fees collected are used to support County Services, cable administration functions, as well as, provide a government access cable television channel that is aired Countywide.

9. What are PEG channels?: Local cable TV channels that are made available to the community are referred to as PEG channels. They are Public, Education, and Government access channels. Cable companies sometimes run their own channels and are often described as Local Origination or LO channels.
Sometimes channels or time on LO channels can be "leased." Leased Access is another way local channels are used.

10. Who can use PEG channels?

While specific policies differ from community to community, in general, Public Access channels are meant to be available to everyone. You can provide a program for the Access operator to play or, in some communities; you can get training and use equipment to produce your own program. See what is available in your community.

Educational Access channels are usually used by schools to show educational television, telecourses, or information about local schools and resources. Here in Contra Costa County, Educational Access television is provided by the Contra Costa Educational Television Consortium.

Government Access television allows local City and County governments to serve their communities by providing information about local resources, services, and emergencies. Coverage of local City Council and Board of Supervisors meetings, allow the public to see how local government runs and how its elected leaders make decisions.

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Clerk of the Board

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1. Where can I get a Birth/Death/Marriage Certificate?: Vital records may be obtained by visiting the Clerk-Recorder's office at 555 Escobar in Martinez. Clerk-Recorder Webpage

2. How do I file a claim against the County?: Claim forms are available in the Clerk of the Board's office, or online at the Risk Management webpage Risk Management

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Code Enforcement - Conservation & Development

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1. What is the procedure for follow-up on possible code violations?: County staff respond to code enforcement complaints according to the impact of the violation on the community. Situations that appear to pose a serious risk to health and safety as well as disabled access complaints are given high priority. Others are pursued in the order in which they are received. For most code complaints a Courtesy Letter is sent out informing the property owner that they may have a code violation and to contact the code enforcement officer. For serious health and safety, disabled access and work being done without a permit, a code enforcement officer is sent out to ascertain if a violation exists and to request remediation. This is initiated with a Notice to Comply letter.

2. How do I notify the County about a possible code violation?: A complaint about a possible code violation is made by letter, e-mail, fax or in person. Please be prepared with specific information such as the address of the property, details of the situation and the length of time you have observed the situation. Contact us at 925-655-2710 or Toll Free at 877-646-8314. You may submit a complaint form online. You may also submit a complaint form by printing and submitting by fax, mail or drop off to the office.

3. What should I do if I receive a “Courtesy Letter” or a “Notice to Comply”?: You should contact the code enforcement officer to discuss the possible violation. The county is looking for voluntary compliance and is willing to work with you to resolve the issue.

4. How do I contact the Code Enforcement Division?: You may call us at 925-655-2710 or toll free at 877-646-8314. You can also submit a Code Enforcement complaint online.
File a complaint

5. What penalties result from code violations?: In many cases the individual responsible for the code violation is given the opportunity to correct the situation and comply with current codes without a penalty. If the correction is not made, the individual may be subject to fines and other penalties.

6. What is a Notice to Comply (NTC) fee?: Once a code enforcement officer makes a site visit and a Notice to Comply letter has been issued, the county ordinance provides that a code enforcement fee shall be charged equal to two times the amount or $300 minimum for building, plumbing, mechanical and electrical permit fees. Zoning violation clearance requires a minimum of a $300 fee. A fee of $150 per trip will be charged until compliance is met. The fees and expenses are additive to the building permit and/or zoning fee.

7. My neighbor’s yard is over grown and unkempt. Can Code Enforcement do something about it?: Contra Costa County Ordinance 720-2.006 states “no one shall maintain weeds exceeding 18 inches in height.” It is not only an eyesore but can promote fire danger. The fire department takes the lead in fire hazard abatements (tall grass) and Code Enforcement the lead in public nuisances (weeds and overgrown brush).

8. I’m thinking about buying a portable canopy structure to cover my car in my driveway. Are these allowed?: No. Portable canopies located in driveways, though widely popular, are not permitted in Contra Costa County. The two fundamental reasons are wind loads and zoning requirements. Moderate winds have blown these structures down and into roadways presenting unreasonable hazards. To meet the wind load resistance they must be securely affixed to the ground which makes them permanent structure by definition. Zoning requirements prohibit the first 20’ of the front yard from having permanent structures installed prohibiting the canopies.

9. I need additional living space and can’t afford to construct an addition. Can I just convert my garage into living space?: Converting attached garages into living space is a common practice and can be achieved in many cases. Careful planning must be used to meet numerous requirements. The first obstacle is replacing the parking spaces some where on your property that the original garage provided. The Planning Division will review your plans to ensure the parking spaces are restored and in an appropriate location. The second typical obstacle is meeting the building code requirements. Living space must meet more stringent requirements than a garage. Examples are a moisture barrier for the concrete floor and walls, insulation in the walls and ceiling, heating, electrical upgrades, light and ventilation requirements to name just a few. Normally a homeowner hires an architect to assist in this process to provide cost effective solutions to these and other issues.

10. Can my neighbor park his R.V. or boat in the driveway?: Yes. Contra Costa County Ordinance 84-68.1404 allows the storage of boats and recreational vehicles on private property; however 90% of the mass must be screened from public view. Screening may be accomplished by landscaping, fencing, or an intervening building. It is important to note that this rarely can be achieved when the vehicle or vessel is in the front driveway.

11. My neighbor leaves their garbage cans in front of their house for several days after service pick up. Can anything be done about this?: Yes. Contra Costa County Ordinance 720-2.006 prohibits garbage cans being left in public view from a street, highway or private road for more than 36 hours.

12. What are the construction working hours in a residential neighborhood?: In general, there are no restrictions for construction working hours within Contra Costa County. Occasionally, as a conditional of approval, the Planning Division may restrict days and times of construction to a permit approval. The Planning Division 925-655-2705 retains the information about specific sites.

13. If I see someone dumping garbage on private or public property, what should I do?: Illegal dumping is a serious problem in the County. Dumping on public land or streets should be reported to the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Department immediately. Do not approach someone dumping illegally, record the license plate number and vehicle information if it can be done safely and immediately report it to the police. Dumping on private land should be reported to Code Enforcement at 925-655-2710 or Toll Free at 877-646-8314.
File a Complaint Online

14. Where do I go to complain about graffiti on public or private property?: Graffiti is a serious problem that creates visual blight and diminishes property values. Graffiti is a crime and should be reported to the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Department. Occasionally, the markings are gang related and promote violence in the area. The quick removal of the graffiti is one of the most effective deterrents of additional “tagging”. Additionally you may contact the following departments; for publicly owned property such as street signs, sidewalks, and freeway underpasses marked with graffiti should be reported to the Public Works department at 925-313-7000. Privately owned property such as the sides of buildings, and fences should be reported to Code Enforcement 925-655-2710 or Toll Free at 877-646-8314.

15. Where do I report inoperable or abandoned vehicles on public streets and/or private property?: Abandoned vehicles on public streets, highways and private roads should be reported to the Sheriffs Department. Abandoned vehicles on private property should be reported to Code Enforcement 925-655-2710 or Toll Free at 877-646-8314. In order for the vehicle to be removed from private property it must be determined inoperable. This means it must move under its own power and generally complete.
File a Complaint Online

16. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?: Registered heritage trees, trees that provide land stability, are of a protected species or size, or provide visual screening/and or privacy are subject to tree removal permits. Each tree removal permit is subject to individual consideration and approved or denied on a case by case basis by the Planning Division. Some factors used to determine tree removal approval include hazardous situations, number of trees on a property, damage to existing structures, and reasonable development. Prior to removing any tree on your property, you are advised to contact the Planning Division at 925-655-2700 to verify your tree does not require a removal permit.

17. Do I need a permit to build a storage shed?: Storage sheds, tool sheds and play houses that have a foot print of less than 120 square feet do not require a building permit however do have other restrictions. . In the event you bring a utility such as electricity or water to the structure, or enclose mechanical equipment such as a well or pool pump, permits are required. Electrical, plumbing and mechanical permits are required for a structure that may not require a building permit. Sheds and playhouses are not permitted to be located in the property setbacks. This is a required open space that separates properties around the perimeter of the property. Setback distances vary based on property zoning. The Application and Permit Center 925-655-2700 will help you determine the set back requirements of your property.

18. The building next door abandoned and people come and go at all hours of the day. To whom do I report this?: Code Enforcement processes complaints regarding unsecured and abandoned buildings. Contra Costa County Ordinance 720-4 provides the authority and direction to order the proper securing and boarding of dwellings and buildings during temporary periods of vacancy pursuant to a permit, and that dwellings and buildings do not remain vacant and unoccupied for appreciable periods of time. A vacant or abandoned building subject to code enforcement action is defined as a business or residential occupancy that has ceased and whose doors, windows or other openings are broken or missing, so as to allow uncontrolled access to the interior or exposure to the elements. Contact us at 925-655-2710 or Toll Free at 877-646-8314.
File a Complaint Online

19. My neighbor has chickens, horses and/or goats. Can they be in this neighborhood?: Keeping livestock is only permitted in specifically zoned land. Residential property typically only allows raising or keeping “ordinary household pets.” However because the county was once an agriculturally based community, many pieces of land within residential communities have retained legal non-conformance land use that permits the keeping of live stock. The planning department determines the permitted land use for each property within County jurisdiction. Check with the Application and Permit Center 925-655-2700 prior to keeping exotic or farm animals. Report exotic or farm animals in residential areas to Code Enforcement 925-655-7210.

20. My neighbor has a pool and the fence on his property has fallen down. Is he required to put it back up?: Yes. The Building Inspection Division considers damaged or missing fencing used as pools barriers a serious and potentially life threatening situation. Pool fence barriers are proven to save lives and are required by law. They must be maintained in compliance at all times including periods of construction. If you encounter any unfenced pool contact Code Enforcement immediately.

21. My tenant is responsible for a violation on the property. I’m just the landlord and can’t control how my tenant lives. Can I be held liable?: Contra Costa County abatement procedures require the property owner be held responsible for any violations that exist on their property. All correspondence is directed to the property owner as well as known tenants. All fines or penalties are levied against the property and are recorded on the tax role. Tenant generated violations are difficult because the property owner often does not have immediate access to correct the problem. It is therefore strongly advised that a landlord closely and regularly monitor their properties for changes and violations.

22. My building is substandard and my landlord will not make the corrections. Can you help me?: Yes. Everyone is entitled to live in a safe and healthy building. It is strongly recommended that the landlord be notified immediately and given the opportunity to repair the problem prior to contacting Code Enforcement. In the event the landlord does not take action, reporting substandard building conditions to Code Enforcement will get the ball rolling to get these conditions corrected. Fear of repercussions is commonly heard for not reporting substandard conditions in rentals. Complainants anonymity are protected by law. Names and personal information will not be released. Contact us at 925-655-2710 or Toll Free at 877-646-8314.

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County Counsel

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1. How do I apply for a job as an attorney with the County Counsel’s Office?: To learn more about the position of Deputy County Counsel - Exempt, and to sign up for notifications regarding job openings, go to
Deputy County Counsel - Exempt

2. Can I get free legal advice from the County Counsel?: No. The County Counsel provides legal advice to the Board of Supervisors, elected officials, and County employees for matters related to the operation and management of the County government. The County Counsel and other attorneys in the office cannot provide legal advice to members of the public. If you need a lawyer and do not have one, you can call the Lawyer Referral and Information Service, operated by the Contra Costa Bar Association, at Phone: 925-825-5700. For more information, go to the
Contra Costa Bar Association website.

3. I have suffered a personal injury or property damage that I believe was caused by the County or one of its employees. How do I go about collecting for my damages?: Claims for money are made by submitting a claim to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, located in the County Administration Building, 1025 Escobar Street, First Floor, Martinez, California 94553. Claim forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board. The law regarding claims against public entities is complicated and has relatively short deadlines. You should seek the services of an attorney for your own protection, and you should present your claim without delay. For more information, please go to
Risk Management.

4. Can I talk to Thomas Geiger? I think he is the person working on my matter.: Mr. Geiger is the County Counsel, and his name appears on almost all correspondence and case pleadings. However, the person most familiar with your matter is the person who signed the document. His or her name appears in court documents below Mr. Geiger's name at the top of the first page, and again on the signature line on the last page. If you need to speak to someone in the County Counsel's Office, you should contact that person, whose telephone number is usually listed.

5. Who can "Accept Service"?: All claims, summons and complaints against the County or a County department must be "served" (delivered) to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, the agent authorized to accept service on behalf of the County of Contra Costa. No departmental employee should accept service of any claim, complaint or summons on behalf of the County or County agency. The process server will be directed to deliver the papers to the Clerk of the Board on the First Floor of the County Administration Building. This office does not accept service, unless there is a prior agreement to accept service on behalf of a client.

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County Surveyor

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1. Does the County Surveyor’s Office perform surveys for the general public?

No, the County Surveyor’s Office only performs surveys on County owned land, including County road and flood control channel rights-of-way.

Only a land surveyor or qualified pre-1982 civil engineer licensed in the state of California can provide property line location for a private survey in this state. Contact information for these professionals can be found in a telephone directory, by searching the Internet, or by contacting engineering and land surveying societies (see Resources, P. 21 of the Consumer Guide to Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors or California Land Surveyors Association, Find a Surveyor). The California State Board website is another source of information for researching licensed engineers or land surveyors in your city or county where you can verify that the professional is currently and properly licensed and find out if there have been any complaints or disciplinary actions taken against the person’s license.

When interviewing land surveyors ask for local references on similar projects and compare qualifications and experience. Also, ask if they have previous experience working with your local planning department, public works department, municipal utility district, or County Surveyor’s Office. For your protection, the State Board insists that a formal contract is made between professional and client.

2. My neighbor and I have a dispute about the location of our fence; what is the process for involving a resolution of this issue by the County Surveyor?: The County Surveyor’s Office has no authority to mediate private property issues.

3. My neighbor informed that I am encroaching on his property, what do I do?: How did your neighbor come to this determination? Request the official filed map of the survey that provided a surveyor’s opinion of your shared boundary line. You can hire a surveyor yourself.

4. Do you have maps and other records available online?: Yes, Tract Maps (also known as Subdivision Maps), Parcel Maps, Records of Survey and Corner Records are now available for viewing and download at no cost through the Public Works Records webpage. Click on the “Laserfiche Weblink."

5. Can you give me information about all of the easements that cross my property?: No. If your property is a lot in a subdivision we can provide a copy of the recorded subdivision map which will show easements created by that map and other easements affecting the property at that time; however, there is no reason to assume that other easements have not been created since. A title company insurance policy or preliminary title report is the best source of disclosing things such as easements affecting a particular property.

6. What are the Public Counter hours of service? Phone number? Location?: The Public Works is located at 255 Glacier Drive in Martinez. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and open Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.). The main phone number is (925) 313-2000. Also see question #4 above.

7. I am a land surveyor with a project in Contra Costa County. Will you do the research I need and send it (fax it, e-mail it) to me?: No. You must do the research yourself. You are in responsible charge of your map, including research.

8. I am a land surveyor with a project in Contra Costa County. Where are the checklist for filing Maps, and what are the fees associated with map submittals?

Fee schedules are currently a part of the checklists.

The checklists for parcel maps and final map submissions are here.

The checklist for Records of Surveys is here.

The checklist for Corner Records is here.

9. Do you issue tract and parcel map numbers?: For tract numbers for the entire county, and parcel map numbers for the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa, contact the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) (925) 674-7722. For parcel maps in other cities, obtain the number from the city.

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Countywide Most Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Where can I get recorded documents, such as birth, death or marriage certificates, or deeds and liens?: A wide variety of vital records may be obtained by visiting the Clerk-Recorder's office at 555 Escobar Street in downtown Martinez, near the Amtrak station.

You can also call them at 925-335-7910. Recorded Documents

2. How do I get copies of court records?: The Courts are no longer part of the county government, but you can find out a great deal of court information by visiting their website. If you need information that you cannot find online, you can reach them by phone at 925-608-1000.
Court Case Files & Records

3. How do I report abuse or neglect of an animal?: Call the Animal Services general information line at 925-608-8400 to report suspected abuse or neglect of an animal.
Animal Services

4. How do I find out if someone is in custody?: The Sheriff’s Custody Services Bureau handles all in-custody inmate information. They can be reached at (925) 646-4496, 24 hours a day seven days per week.
You can also find some information on the Department's "inmate lookup" system. Inmate Lookup website

5. Where can I get a building permit, or find out information about development services?: The County's online permit center is managed by the Department of Conservation and Development. Find them online at http://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4474/Application-and-Permit-Center. You can also call them at 925-674-7200. Permit Center

6. What is required to obtain a business license?: The Treasurer-Tax Collector has a great deal of information online to walk you through the process of getting a business license. Visit their website.
You can also call them at 925-957-5280. Business License information

7. How can I sign up for Medi-Cal or food stamps?: Apply online for health or financial assistance online, or you can call 925-602-9379. Benefit Signup Information

8. Where can I find property tax information?: You can look up information regarding your property tax assessment online, and get more information at the Assessor's Office.
Contact the Assessor's Office at 925-313-7481. Lookup Property Tax

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Department of Conservation and Development -CEQA Notifications

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1. The Final Environmental Impact Report for the Martinez Refinery Renewable Fuels Project

The Martinez Refinery Renewable Fuels Project application and EIR will be heard before the County Planning Commission on March 23, 2022.

The Agenda and staff report will be available on the County Planning Commission webpage (Link).

The Final Environmental Impact Report (Link) can be reviewed online in advance of the meeting.

2. The Final Environmental Impact Report for the Rodeo Refinery Renewable Fuels Project is available and will be heard at the County Planning Commission on March 30, 2022

The Rodeo Refinery Renewable Fuels Project application and EIR will be heard before the County Planning Commission on March 30, 2022.

The Agenda and staff report will be available on the County Planning Commission webpage (Link).

The Final Environmental Impact Report can be reviewed on the Rodeo Renewed Project website in advance of the meeting.

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Department of Conservation and Development ePermits Center

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1. I’m locked out of my account and can’t remember my password.: Please Email our technical support team with your user name, user account email address and problem description.

2. I’m getting a screen error on my online application and can’t proceed.: Please Email our technical support team with the project address, description of the error and at what step the error appeared. If possible, please provide screenshots.

3. I applied online but I'm not receiving any updates on my application.: All notifications are emailed only to the applicant throughout the life of the project.
Please check your spam or junk email folder if you do not see emails in your inbox.
You can also check the processing status of your application online.
If your application number starts with BISUB, CDZZ, CDYY or PWET, follow the post submittal guide
to learn how to view the related records for your submittal.
Follow this guide on how to check the processing status. (PDF)

4. I don’t see the Attachments page so I'm not able to upload or download files to my online application.: Make sure you are a contact on the application and you are logged in.
Only associated contacts with an ePermits Center account are able to upload or download files to the application.
If you are neither, register for an account FIRST and then submit this request form:
Request to connect a newly registered user to an existing permit.

5. My contractor and other contacts on my application are not receiving emails about the processing status.: All emails are sent only to the applicant of the record.
It is the applicant’s responsibility to inform their project contacts of any processing requirements or updates.

6. How can I add myself as a contact to an existing application?: Register for an account if you don’t already have one and then submit this request form: Request to connect a new registered user to existing permit.
Our staff will review the request and get approval from the applicant if requester is not the applicant.

7. How do I submit a revision to my building permit project that has been issued already?: Submit a Permit Revision Request Form for permits that are currently in Issued status and have a revision in the original scope of work. The revised plan sheets may be uploaded with the request form. This form is NOT for Public Works permits.
For more information, please visit our Building Permits Revisions, Extensions and Renewals page.

8. How do I renew my expired building permit?: Submit a Permit Renewal Request Form for permits that have not received the final building inspection approvals and are now expired. This form is NOT for Public Works permits.
For more information, visit our Building Permits Revisions, Extensions and Renewals page.

9. How do I update the property owner name on my permit or planning application?: Submit Request to Update Property Owner Name on Existing Building Permit. A PDF copy of the recorded grant deed will be required to be uploaded with request.

10. I need additional time to complete the work for my building inspection permit. How do I extend my building permit that is about to expire?

Submit a Permit Extension Request Form. The permit extension is for building permits that will be expiring in 30 days. This form is NOT for Public Works permits.

For more information, visit our Building Permits Revisions, Extensions and Renewals page.

11. I have questions about my project before I begin. How can I get my questions answered?: Submit your questions using our Contact Us Form.

12. The address on my permit card is incorrect. How can I get a corrected permit card?: Send us an email with your permit number, correct address of permit location and your contact information.

13. I have questions about Encroachment Permits.

For questions on Public Works permits, please Call (925) 313-2000 or E-mail: [email protected].

Encroachment Permit Pamphlet

Encroachment Permit Instructions

14. Trying to print reviewed plans for my issued project and it's asking for a password.: The file is password protected but allows for printing. Download the file to your computer and open it from a PDF reader software like the free Adobe Reader. Follow our guide for printing reviewed plan and files (PDF).

15. How can I get help to successfully submit my online application? I started it but am stuck.: Schedule a Phone, Video or In Person Appointment for Assistance. Schedule an In Person appointment if you would like to come to the Martinez office and get assistance with the ePermits Center.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Office

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1. Does the County offer a Small Business Enterprise program?: Yes, Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Outreach is available for contracts under $50,000 for purchasing (e-Outreach) and professional services, and under $25,000 for construction contracts.
SBE Program

2. How do I file a discrimination complaint?: You may either contact your department's Affirmative Action Coordinator, the County's Affirmative Action Officer or the Merit Board for a copy of the
Discrimination Complaint Form.

3. What are your contracting opportunities?: Each County department is responsible for implementing contracts in their department and the Affirmative Action Office implements and monitors the contracting programs in the County. Contact the
SBE and Outreach Liaisons.

4. Does the County offer Outreach Contracting Programs?: Yes! The Outreach Program is for contracts greater than $50,000 for purchasing and professional/personal services and also for construction contracts exceeding $100,000. For details, visit
Outreach Contracting Programs.

5. Does the County use an online bidding program?: Yes, the County offers an e-Outreach Program managed by the Purchasing Services Division of the Public Works Department. The program provides electronic bidding opportunities for contracts exceeding $10,000. To learn more visit the Purchasing Services page
Business Opportunity Programs.

6. Does the County offer Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Programs?: Yes. Contra Costa's DBE Program covers Highways (FHWA) and airports (FAA). For more information visit:
DBE Programs.

7. How do I request reasonable workplace accommodations?: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees may request reasonable accommodations by contacting their supervisor and department ADA Coordinator. Or, employees may contact the Risk Management ADA Coordinator at (925) 335-1436 or 335-1406.

8. How can I learn more about Accessibility to County services, programs and facilities?: Contra Costa observes all accessibility and ADA laws. To learn more about specific services, programs and activities, call the Equal Employment Opportunity office at (925) 335-1455 or refer to the
ADA Information

9. How do I learn about County Purchasing opportunities?: You must provide your information by completing the online vendor registration process. Instructions are available on the Purchasing page or by contacting Purchasing Services at (925) 313-2120. Providing your information will allow the County to contact you when an opportunity is available
Vendor Registration Page.

10. How do I bid on Consulting Contracts?: The Department SBE and Outreach Liaisons will advise you of department consulting contracts.
Contact List

11. How do I bid on Construction Contracts?: Contact the SBE and Outreach Liaison in the General Services or Public Works Departments.
Contact List

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Help With Taxes - Tax Collector

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1. If I give property to my children or grandchildren, will it be reassessed?: Legislation was passed in 1986 excluding from reassessment transfers between parents and children of the principal residence and $1 million assessed value of other property. A claim form must be timely filed with the Assessor's Office to qualify. Some grandparent/grandchildren transfers may be excluded also. For additional information regarding this exclusion, contact our office at (925) 313-7400.

2. Will a Change In Ownership affect my Property Taxes?: A change in ownership may result in an increase to your property taxes. If a transfer is between parent and child or between spouses, it may be excluded from reappraisal in certain circumstances. If you have any questions, please call (925) 313-7400.

3. What are Examples of Tax-Exempted Properties?: Property used exclusively for religious worship, colleges, cemeteries, museums, schools, or libraries may qualify for an exemption from property taxes. Properties owned and used exclusively by a nonprofit religious, charitable, scientific, or Hospital Corporation are also eligible for an exemption. For more information call (925) 313-7481.

4. Is there tax relief for Disabled Veterans?: A veteran who is rated 100% disabled, blind, or a paraplegic due to a service-connected disability incurred while in the armed forces (or the unmarried surviving spouse of such veteran) may be eligible for an exemption of up to $150,000 off the assessed value of their home. An application must be filed with the Assessor's Office to determine eligibility for this program. For more information, call (925) 313-7481.

5. What is a Homeowner's Exemption?: If you own and occupy your principal place of residence on January 1, you may apply for a Homeowner's Exemption that would exempt $7,000 of your home's assessed value from taxation. This would result in a savings of approximately $70 per year on your property tax bill.

6. How do I qualify for a Homeowners' Exemption?: If you own and occupy your home as your principal place of residence on January 1, you may apply for an exemption of $7,000 off your assessed value for an annual savings of approximately $70 on your property taxes. New property owners will automatically receive an exemption application. The exemption remains in effect until terminated or there is a change in title to the property. A homeowners' exemption may also apply to a supplemental assessment. For more information, call (925) 313-7481.

7. What sorts of properties can qualify for the Homeowners' Exemption?: A single family residence, a duplex, a condominium or planned unit development, A unit of any multi-unit property, a mobile home, a houseboat or floating home that is subject to property tax, a living unit in a commercial or industrial property.

8. How do I get a Homeowner's Exemption?: New property owners will usually receive an exemption application enclosed with their notice of supplemental assessment, approximately 90 to 120 days after the deed is recorded. If you acquired the property more than 120 days ago, and have not received an application, please call (925) 313-7481 for an application.

9. What is the filing period for the Homeowner's Exemption on the annual secured property tax bill?: The deadline to file for the full exemption is February 15. A partial exemption is available if filed between February 16 and December 10. You must still meet the own and occupy by January 1st eligibility requirement, even when filing late.

10. What is the filing period for the Homeowners Exemption on my Supplemental Assessment?: You must return the exemption claim card that is enclosed with your notice of supplemental assessment, within 30 days after the date of the notice, to receive full credit. A partial exemption may be allowed if is returned after 30 days, but before date the first installment of supplemental taxes becomes due.

11. Would an extended stay in a convalescent hospital jeopardize eligibility for the Homeowners' Exemption?: No. The exemption is allowed if the owner is expected to return. However, according to the State Board of Equalization, an absence of more than one year raises considerable doubt that the owner is expected to return, and in that case the eligibility may be terminated.

12. What requirements need to be met to qualify for temporary tax reduction?: The amount of damage must exceed $5,000, and a completed Calamity Claim application must be filed with the Assessor within 60 days of the date of damage. However, if no application has been filed and the Assessor later determines that a property suffered a calamity within the preceding 6 months, then the Assessor must send an application to the last known owner of the property. The owner must then return the completed application to the Assessor within 30 days of the Assessor's notification but in no case may the application be filed later than 6 months after the date of calamity.

13. Do boats and airplanes qualify if they were also damaged by the disaster?: Yes. Tax reduction is available for all damaged taxable property, including boats, aircraft or other business personal property.

14. After my property is rebuilt or repaired, will my property taxes be increased?: Yes, but only to the level they were before the damage occurred, plus the appropriate inflation factor. This is true if the improvements are rebuilt in a like or similar manner, regardless of the actual cost of rebuilding. However, if additional living space or other significant improvements are made in addition to the repair, additional taxes may result.

15. How is the value of my new replacement property calculated?

If the market value of the replacement is within 120 percent of the market value of the property substantially damaged or destroyed, the factored base year value of the damaged or destroyed property will be transferred to the replacement. Ref. California Revenue & Taxation 69(b)(1)

Example:
Market value of damaged or destroyed property = $220,000
Market value of replacement property = $253,000
Percentage above value of damaged or destroyed property = 15 percent
Base year value of replacement = $220,000

If the market value of the replacement is more than 120 percent of the market value of the property substantially damaged or destroyed, the base year value of the replacement will be the factored base year value of the damaged or destroyed property plus the amount by which the value of the replacement exceeds 120 percent of the value of the property that was damaged or destroyed. Ref. California Revenue & Taxation Code 69(b) (2)

Example: Market value of damaged or destroyed property = $220,000
Market value of replacement property = $275,000
Percentage above value of damaged or destroyed property = 25 percent
Base year value of replacement = $220,000 + (275,000 - (220,000 x 120%)) = $231,000

16. If my property was severely damaged / destroyed by a calamity but no declaration of disaster was issued by the governor, would I still be able to transfer my old base year value?: No. A disaster declaration must have been issued by the Governor for the event that caused the damage. Ref California Revenue & Taxation Code 69(c) (3).

17. What if the market value of my replacement property actually turns out to be LESS than the factored Prop 13 value of my original property?: In that case, the Assessor would simply enroll the lower value. Ref California Revenue & Taxation Code 69(b) (3)

18. Can I transfer the base year value of my severely damaged / destroyed property to another county?: In some cases yes, but only if the county in which the replacement property is located has passed a resolution allowing such transfers and you otherwise qualify. Ref. California Revenue & Taxation Code 69.3.

19. Do I have to purchase an already complete replacement property or can I buy land and build a replacement structure on it?: You may do either, as long as the comparable replacement property is acquired or newly constructed within three years after the disaster.

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Human Resources

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1. What positions are currently available?: We have our available jobs posted on this site. To access these postings, click here.

2. Can I apply online?: Contra Costa County only accepts online applications. When viewing a job posting for a currently open examination, you can select the option that says 'Apply'. To see the list of currently open examinations, click here.

3. Can I use one online application for multiple jobs?: No. You must submit a separate online application for each recruitment.

4. What if I do not have a computer?: You may complete an on-line application at the Contra Costa Human Resources Department at 651 Pine St., 2nd Floor, Martinez, CA 94553. Our office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. In addition, most college placement offices, job search agencies, career centers, public libraries, and some civic centers have computers and Internet access for their patrons' free use.

5. What if I don't have email?: There are several Internet Service Providers that offer free email accounts. Hotmail and Yahoo are just two of these. Through them or other companies, you can obtain a free email address that you can use to apply. However, don't forget to check your new e-mail account for correspondence from Contra Costa County.

6. What will I need to complete an application on-line?

It's important for your job applications to be complete and accurate. Make sure you have all the information you need handy before you begin the application process.

The information you will need to complete an application for employment:

Personal Information:
Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Phone Number
E-mail Address
Eligibility to Work in US
If under age, school work authorization
Driver’s License number and Class

Education:
Schools/Colleges Attended
Major
Degree/Diploma
Graduation Date(s)

Position Applied For Information:
Title of the job you are applying for
Hours/days available to work
When you can start work

Employment Information:
Names, addresses, phone numbers of previous employers
Supervisors’ names
Dates of employment (months and years)
Salary
Reason for Leaving

References:
List of three references - names, job titles or relationships, addresses, phone numbers

Other Documentation:
Any other documentation requested in the job announcement such as permit, license, or certificate.

7. What does it mean when an exam is “Continuous file”, “Open”, or “Promotional”?: Open examination -- Any persons qualified for the position may apply for the examination. Applications are typically accepted during a 2 to 4 week filing period.
Promotional examination -- Only qualified County employees with permanent status (successfully passed probationary period) may apply for these exams.
Continuous file -- Any persons qualified for the position may apply. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis and processed on a predetermined schedule and on an as-needed basis.

8. I’ve been looking for the County to recruit for the position I want, and it never seems to be posted, while other jobs seem to be posted over and over. What determines how often a recruitment is held?

Recruitment schedules are based on a number of things including:

Availability of a current eligible list;
Number of individuals on the list who are still interested in the position;
Number of anticipated openings.

For some jobs with limited turnover and a small number of positions, recruitments will open on an as needed basis.

9. Why is it important for me to read the entire Job Announcement?: Valuable information on the announcement includes:
Salary
Position description
Examples of necessary knowledge and abilities
Minimum qualifications
Special requirements
Information about the testing process
Type of recruitment (open, promotional, or continuous)
Type of exam (written, oral, etc.)
How to submit required documents when applying on-line
Tentative final filing or cut-off dates
Supplemental instructions and questions

10. A job posting is listed as represented. What does that mean?: A represented classification is one that has an agreement between the County and a labor organization governing particular benefits. These agreements are called Memoranda of Understanding. To view these agreements, click here.

11. I saw a job announcement and think I’m qualified, but I’m not sure. What should I do?: Each job announcement lists the Minimum Qualifications and special requirements of the position. Evaluate your experience, education, and training to determine if you meet the requirements and possess the knowledge and abilities outlined for that position. If applicable, review the supplemental questions. If in doubt, submit your completed application packet and the Human Resources Department will determine whether or not you meet the requirements.

12. What does it mean when a job announcement states that upper division coursework is required?: Upper division coursework is defined as coursework that is taken at a four-year university towards a Bachelor’s degree (or higher). They are usually your “major” courses defined as “upper division” by the awarding institution.

13. Will I have to submit my college transcripts or copies of my degrees/licenses?: Each job announcement lists the Minimum Qualifications and special requirements of the position. If the Minimum Qualifications and/or special requirements list a specific type of college coursework, degree, license, certificate, etc, then applicable documentation must be submitted. In order to be qualifying, education must be from a U.S. accredited (or equivalent) institution. Acceptable forms of educational documentation are transcripts (official or unofficial), and/or a copy of your diploma/degree.
Unofficial transcripts are acceptable and but must list the student name, institution name, field of study, and date the degree was awarded. Copies of diplomas should indicate your name, the name of the school, a specific field of study, and date of graduation. If applicable, required documentation should be submitted with each application. Please do not send originals; copies of the required documents are acceptable. No submitted documents will be returned. For recent graduates who have not received proof of their degree yet, a letter from the registrar’s office stating that all requirements for graduation have been met and listing the field of study will be sufficient proof of graduation.

14. I submitted an application for a job and/or I’m a current employee, and I previously submitted documentation, do I need to resubmit my information?: Each application is reviewed separately. All requested documentation must be submitted with each application.

15. I am interested in applying for a job on-line and have not previously. How do I create an on-line application and apply for a job?: Once you locate a job that is currently accepting applications, click on the ‘apply now’ link in the upper right hand corner, log onto www.governmentjobs.com, and follow the on-line instructions.

16. When I open my browser to GovernmentJobs.com I get a message that says “Warning! Your browser doesn’t meet technical requirements..." Will I still be able to complete an on-line application?: According to Neogov/GovernmentJobs.com, the minimum level of Internet Explorer they support for the on-line application is IE8. However, the drag and drop feature to attach documents to the application is not supported in IE8. You have to browse to locate and upload the attachment. If you are using IE8 you will still be able to log in and complete an application.

17. I applied on-line, how do I submit additional information?: You can upload electronic copies of required documents during the on-line application process. You can also submit any additional information to [email protected] and request the documentation be attached to your application.

18. My resume includes all the information you should need. Can I just submit my resume and a cover letter to apply for a job?: No. You must submit a completed application for each position you are interested in. You may attach a resume and cover letter; however the information on the resume cannot substitute for the completed application. You must also complete and submit any additional information listed on the job announcement. This may include a Supplemental Questionnaire, work samples, or copies of licenses/degrees/transcripts. Resumes will not be considered when determining Minimum Qualifications or test scores.

19. What are the most common reasons why an applicant may get a ‘Rejection’ notice?

The applicant does not meet the minimum qualifications.

The applicant does not provide enough detail about their work experience and duties in the Work Experience section on their application. For example, if you are applying for Automotive Mechanic, just writing “10 years as mechanic at XYZ Ford” doesn’t provide enough detail about your duties. Writing “As a mechanic at XYZ Ford dealership, I performed computerized diagnostics, repaired and replaced all components of the drive train, specialized in repairing hybrid vehicles, and did trouble-shooting of difficult electrical problems.” provides enough information to assess your experience to see if it meets the Minimum Qualifications.

Required documents are not attached to the application, such as a transcript, diploma, or typing certificate. If the Job Announcement states you must attach documents to substantiate your education or certifications, your application will be rejected if you don’t.

20. I qualified for a position in the past but now I don’t qualify. How can that be?: Minimum Qualifications can change as the job duties and needs change over time. Therefore, it is possible that you could have qualified in the past for a particular exam and not for the current exam administration. In addition, your application is reviewed for these Minimum Qualifications based on what you submit on your current application. We do not refer back to previous applications and exams.

21. The job announcement refers to an “eligibility list”; what is that?: An eligible list is comprised of all the candidates that passed the Contra Costa County exam process. They are placed on the list according to their score and ranking for that particular exam. Individuals are encouraged to be on as many eligible lists as possible to maximize their employment opportunity with the County.

22. How can I change my personal information?: To change your name, address, telephone, SSN, or email address, you will need to complete a Change Request form and return it via email to [email protected]. To access a copy of this form, click here.

23. Can I waive an interview with a department?: In accordance with Contra Costa County's Personnel Management Regulations (PMR), 717.3 Waiver of Particular Certifications- An eligible may waive right to certification to any particular position or after certification may waive possible or offered appointment by written or telephone statement to the Director of Human Resources or the appointing authority giving the reason for waiver. After three (3) such waivers of certification or appointment to permanent positions in any class, the eligible's name may be removed from the employment list. Waivers made to an appointing authority must be reported by the appointing authority to the Director of Human Resources."

24. How will I be informed of the results of a hiring interview?: The hiring department will contact you with interview results either by phone or by mail.

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Human Resources Employee Benefits

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1. How often does Catastrophic Committee meet?: Catastrophic Committee meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.

2. When can I change health plans?: There is an annual Open Enrollment period held in the fall of each year. During the open enrollment period, an employee/retiree may change health plans, add or delete dependents.

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Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP) - Home Rehabilitation Loans

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1. What kind of rehabilitation work can NPP provide?: The main priority of NPP is to eliminate health and safety deficiencies in the home. This typically includes, but is not limited to roof repair/replacement, water heater replacement, HVAC repair, and improvements to the plumbing and electrical systems.

2. How much money can I receive, where does it come from, and when must I pay it back?: The program provides applicants with loans up to $70,000 and grants up to $15,000. The type of funding that you are offered depends on factors such as your current household income, housing expenses, and equity in your home. Funding for the program comes directly from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and Contra Costa County acts as a steward. Once approved, the money is actually paid directly to your chosen contractor at set intervals as work progresses and is verified as complete. Grants do not need to be paid back, while loans become due in either 15 or 30 years. At the time that the loan matures, some borrowers with deferred loans may be eligible for an extension or have their loan converted to amortizing, depending on their income.

3. Who performs the rehabilitation?: NPP uses the “sealed bid” procurement method for major projects. Homeowners work with a home inspector to draft a scope-of-work and eligible contractors send in sealed bids based on their estimates for the work. The lowest, most responsible bidder is awarded the project.

4. Who decides what work will be performed?: Homeowners work with a home inspector to put together a scope-of-work that includes eligible work. However, deviations often occur to facilitate the winning proposal. If you were not awarded enough funding to accommodate all of the work you have requested, the home inspector will ultimately determine which work must take precedence, based on detriment to health and safety.

5. Is this a secured loan?: Yes, both of the loans offered through the program are secured through an encumbrance (lien) on your property’s title (similar to a second mortgage).

6. What are the requirements for contractors looking to bid on rehabilitation projects?

Contractors must have a B-class contractor’s license through the State Contractor’s License Board, meet insurance requirement (General Liability, Auto, and Worker’s Comp), and abide by program rules.

7. What constitutes a “household”?: A “household” refers to all persons occupying a housing unit as their primary place of residence. Occupants may be a family, two or more families living together, a tenant, or any other group of related or unrelated persons who share living arrangements.

8. What does the term “owner-occupant” mean?: An “Owner-occupant” is a resident of a property who holds the title to that property. In order to qualify for the program, the property must be the primary place of residence for all owners.

9. Is a credit check required?: No, there is no credit check, nor does credit play a role in our decision to fund an applicant. This program is designed for County residents who would otherwise be unable to secure a loan from a traditional bank.
Contractors Bidding Information

10. What if I’m going through a bankruptcy?

In order to qualify for the program, any bankruptcy must be finalized/discharged from record. The court appointed trustee must no longer be involved in the decision-making process of homeowner transactions.

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New Resident Information

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1. Trash Pickup?: Trash collection is generally provided by same company that collects recyclables from residences. Recycling Collectors

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Olympic Corridor Trail Connector Study

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1. What is the project study area?: Please see the project map
Project Map

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Planning & Land Use

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1. How high can I build my fence and/or retaining wall?: The maximum height of a fence is seven feet. The maximum height of a retaining wall is three feet. Maximum combination of a fence and retaining wall is seven feet total but the wall may not exceed three feet. If these criteria are met, then the fence and retaining wall may be placed within the required setbacks. Generally, fences and retaining walls that meet these criteria do not require planning approval and permits are not needed.

2. Do my neighbors need a tree permit to remove a tree? When do they need a permit and what is the process and timeline involved?: The Tree Protection and Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 816-6) defines a protected tree. A tree is either protected or not protected based on its characteristics (e.g. trunk size, species) and the characteristics of the property on which it is located. The Ordinance requires that the property owner obtain a tree permit from the county before trenching, grading or filling within the dripline of any protected tree or before cutting down, destroying, trimming by topping or removal of any protected tree.

3. How do I start a Home Occupation?

A Home Occupation is a business activity that is conducted at a residential dwelling by a person residing in the dwelling and is a secondary and incidental use of the dwelling as a residence.

No Home Occupation may be conducted at a residential dwelling unless a home occupation permit or a land use permit has been issued.

More Information about Home Occupations

Home Occupation Application Process

Apply for a Home Occupation with our ePermit system
View the Submitting a Planning Application webpage to learn more about applying for a Planning Application
Once a Home Occupation permit is obtained, you can get a business license from the Treasurer-Tax Collector's Office-Business License Tax Division on 625 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553. Telephone: 925-957-5280

Home Occupations Code (Municode)

4. What can be built or done to my property?: What type of structures and uses are allowed on individual properties depends on what zoning district the property is located in. If the site is located in the unincorporated area, planning staff can determine the zoning district upon request if you visit the Application & Permit Center or call 925-655-2700 Before visiting or calling, make sure you have the specific Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), also referred to as the Property Tax Number, or address for the site.

5. Where can I get a copy of the parcel map?: Copies of official parcel maps can be obtained directly from the Assessor’s Office located at 2530 Arnold Drive, Suite 100 in Martinez; for their office hours and current fees call 925-313-7400. Application & Permit Center staff at 30 Muir Road in Martinez can also provide copies of maps from the parcel books created by the Assessor’s Office (fees apply).
Contra Costa County CCMAPs GIS

6. What type of structures do not require a permit?: According to the code the following is exempt from needing permits: One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Unless specifically exempt, anything else will need permits. Any potentially unique situations should be referred to Building Inspection or Planning at 925-655-2700 for a definitive answer.

7. How long does the permit process take?: The length of the permit process depends on the type of application, project, and situation. Generally, the County’s building plan check process takes two to four weeks. Many projects also have to go through local planning application or process as well. Applicants should visit the Application & Permit Center or call 925-655-2700 to discuss their project in more detail.

8. Where can I obtain information on gas, water, or sanitation lines on my property?: First, contact the respective agencies providing services to your area (PG&E, Contra Costa Water District, EBMUD, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, etc.). Second, consider contacting USA (Underground Services Alert) at 800-227-6000 before beginning any work so that they can mark all lines that lie on your property.

9. What is green building and where can I find more information about green homes?: Green building is a “Whole-Systems” approach for designing and constructing buildings that conserve energy, water, and material resources and are healthier, safer, and more comfortable. Questions regarding green building can be submitted on-line or call (888) 40-GREEN to “Ask an Expert”.
Green Building Resources & Information.

10. When is a permit required from Building Inspection?: A permit is required whenever any structural, plumbing, mechanical or electrical work is to be performed. If you are unsure please feel free to contact us for help at 925-655-2700.

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Probation

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1. How does my incarceration or being on probation effect my voting eligibility?

You can register to vote if you are:

o A citizen of the United States of America;

o A resident of California;

o At least 18 years of age or older on or before election day;

o Not currently in state or federal prison for the conviction of a felony; and

o Not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court.

For more information please see Voting Rights for Californians with Criminal Convictions or Detained in Jail or Prison, California Secretary of State – Restore Your Vote, and Voting Rights: Persons Subject to Conservatorship on the California Secretary of State's website.

For Contra Costa specific information please visit the Contra Costa County Elections Division at:

https://www.cocovote.us/contact-information/

2. I was convicted of an offense and want to have it dismissed and/or reduced to a misdemeanor. How do I do this?

You may choose to contact an attorney or the Public Defender’s Office to represent you for Change of Plea proceedings. The following conditions apply for you to be eligible for a change of plea:

You must not have any pending cases in any county or state.
You must have completed probation and probation must have terminated either successfully or routinely. If your grant of probation was terminated as unsuccessful, you may not be granted relief.
Cases which terminated in state prison sentences are not eligible.
If you were originally charged with a misdemeanor, contact the court that handled your case. If you were originally charged with a felony, the Probation Department will handle your request. Multiple dockets may be researched at the same time.

Please remember that all charges, convictions and sentences remain on your record, and will be noted to the court, should you be arrested in the future, regardless of the outcome of a 1203.4 PC (dismissal of conviction) or 17 PC (reduction of a felony to misdemeanor). The result of the courts decision will be added to your record.

3. I want to visit a youth in Juvenile Hall. How do I do that?

Minors are allowed two hours of visitation time per week. Each hour must be completed on two separate visitation days; one weekday and one weekend day. Only parents or legal guardians may visit.

Guidelines: Only Parents or Guardians are allowed to visit. Proper identification, such as a valid California driver's license or identification, must be presented. All personal property must be left in vehicle. All visitors must pass through the metal detector, without alarm, prior to entering the facility. No food or drink allowed within the facility. Some minors are on Special Visit Status, requiring a visiting appointment. Special visits must be arranged in advanced by the parent or guardian by contacting 925-957-2725.

For more information about visiting hours and guidelines please visit: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/680/John-A-Davis-Juvenile-Hall

4. How do I get my juvenile record sealed?: Information explaining the record seal process, as well as an application for sealing can be viewed and printed by clicking HERE.

5. My teenage child is beyond my control. She / he will not go to school, refuses to obey me, leaves and comes home whenever s/he pleases and refuses to tell me where s/he goes. Can probation help me?

The Probation Department is an arm of the court and an integral part of the criminal justice system. Children and adults are placed on probation by the court after a finding that they have committed a crime. In this scenario Probation would lack jurisdiction and be unable to provide direct services. However, Probation Officers routinely work with counselors, school officials and other professionals who do provide direct services to troubled families. Please call and ask to speak to the officer of the day if you would like to be referred to a local resource agency.

Antioch (East County): 925-431-1600
Martinez (Central County): 925-313-4000
Richmond (West County): 510-231-6500

6. My partner has threatened to hurt me and my family. What can I do?

Contact your local law enforcement if you or anyone in your family has been the victim of a crime or is in fear of their safety.

You may also contact the Family Justice Center at: Concord: 925-521-6366 or Richmond: 510-974-7200.

Many resources are available on line at www.cocofamilyjustice.org or https://www.crisis-center.org/talk-or-text-someone-now/.

If you are the victim of a person who is supervised by a Deputy Probation Officer (DPO). You can contact the Adult Division at 925-313-4000 and ask to speak to the assigned DPO or the Officer of the Day.

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Proposition 47

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1. What is Proposition 47?: On November 4, 2014, the voters of California passed Proposition 47, a law that reduces some felonies to misdemeanors.

2. Can I get my felony reduced to a misdemeanor?

You may be able to have your most recent case, and any earlier cases, changed from felonies to misdemeanors if you were convicted of the following charges:

• Commercial Burglary of a Store during Regular Business Hours (PC §459)
• Forgery (PC §470-476)
• Fraud/Bad Checks (PC §476a)
• Grand Theft (PC §487)
• Petty Theft/Shoplifting (PC §§484, 484/666)
• Possession of Methamphetamine (HS §11377)
• Possession of Controlled Substance (HS §11350)
• Possession of Concentrated Cannabis (HS §11357(a))
• Receiving Stolen Property (PC §496)

For theft charges to be reduced, the amount stolen must have been less than $950. Simple possession of any controlled substance or unlawful drug has now been reduced to a misdemeanor.

3. Who can’t have their cases reduced from felonies to misdemeanors?: Charges will not be reduced for anyone who has certain priors, and for most people who are registered sex offenders. Please contact our office if you have been convicted of one or more of the felonies listed above and we will advise you about whether you qualify for a reduction.

4. Can I have my felony conviction reduced to a misdemeanor even if it is not a recent felony conviction?: Yes, this law is completely retroactive. That means that you are eligible to have any qualifying prior felony convictions reduced to misdemeanors no matter how long ago you were convicted. This is true even if you were previously denied a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor by the court during any pre-conviction court hearing, at sentencing, or after requesting an expungement.

5. Will there be a court hearing?: If there is any question about whether your felony case should be reduced, there may be a court hearing where you will be represented by a public defender from our office if you qualify financially.

6. If I’m in jail and my case is reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor, will I get out of jail?: The maximum jail time for most misdemeanors is one year in county jail. If you have already served more than the maximum term of confinement, you should be released. If you have not served the maximum term of confinement for the misdemeanor charge(s), the court may hold a hearing to determine if your sentence should be reduced. However, if you have other cases or charges that are holding you in custody, you will not be released even if you receive a reduction on one or more charges.

7. If I’m in prison and my case is reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor, will I get out of prison?: If you have no other charges keeping you in state prison, you may be released from prison. If your case is reduced to a misdemeanor, your maximum sentence is no more than a year in county jail per charge. You cannot be sentenced to prison on a misdemeanor, but you can be sentenced to county jail.

8. If my case is reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor, will I be on probation or parole when I am released from jail or prison?: This will depend on the type of sentence you received before, and the decision will be made by the judge who resentences you. If you are resentenced, you should receive a Minute Order from the court before you are released. Please read it carefully to see if you have been ordered to report to probation or parole when you are released. Please comply with any terms and conditions ordered by the Court. If you think there has been a mistake or have any questions about any of the new terms and condition of your sentence after resentencing, please call the Office of the Public Defender at (925)335-8075 and ask to speak with Deputy Public Defender Ellen McDonnell or send an email to [email protected].

9. If my case is reduced to a misdemeanor, will I still have to pay restitution?: Yes. Even if your case is reduced to a misdemeanor, any restitution orders will remain in full force and effect. However, your court fines and fees likely will be decreased if your case is reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor. Please check your Minute Order when you are released to see how much you owe.

10. If my felony is reduced to a misdemeanor, can I vote?: Probably. To vote in the state of California, you must be at least 18 years old and a state resident. You can even vote while you are still on probation. However, you cannot vote if you are in prison; on parole; currently serving a local state prison sentence in county jail; currently serving a “split” sentence (this is sometimes called “Mandatory Supervision”); or on Post Release Community Supervision.
For more information about where you can pick up an application to register to vote, or to register to vote online, go to: http://registertovote.ca.gov/

11. If my felony is reduced to a misdemeanor, what should I put on a job, school, licensing, or military application if there is a question about whether I have a felony conviction?: According to the new law, any felony conviction that is recalled and resentenced or designated as a misdemeanor is a misdemeanor for all purposes, except for your ability to own a gun.

12. How does a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor change benefits like student financial aid or HUD housing?: In general, it is better to have a misdemeanor than a felony on your record. However, this may depend on whether your misdemeanor record includes drug offenses. For more detailed information, please see:
http://www.abacollateralconsequences.org/search/?jurisdiction=10 or http://nacdl.org/restoration/

13. If I do not have any felonies on my record, can I serve on jury duty?: Probably. The law does not let people serve on juries if they have felonies, or if they have committed malfeasance in a public office.

14. If I have my felony cases reduced to misdemeanors, can I have a gun?: No. Even if your felonies are reduced, it will still be a crime for you to own or possess a gun.

15. I have questions about my cases and Proposition 47. Whom can I call for help?: Please call the Office of the Public Defender at (925) 335-8075 and ask to speak to Deputy Public Defender Ellen McDonnell or send an email to [email protected].

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Public Defender Employment

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1. Do I have to be eligible for work-study to paid for working in your department?: Yes. Students must be eligible for work-study funding. We have work-study contracts with UC Berkeley, Hastings, Golden Gate, and USF law schools. However, students from other law schools who are willing to volunteer, or who can obtain alternate sources of funding, are encouraged to apply also.

2. Do you allow law students to split their summer between your Department and another firm?: No.

3. Do you hire first year law students?: Yes. We do hire first year law students. Students may want to wait to apply however, until they are able to be certified.
Our certified law clerks are frequently given opportunities to argue motions in court and even to conduct some trials, under the supervision of an experienced attorney.

4. What types of assignments do your law clerks work on?: Law clerks are given a range of assignments. They do legal research and write motions and memoranda on issues ranging from the Fourth Amendment to juvenile delinquency law.
If a law clerk is interested in one aspect of our practice, we try to accommodate that in the types of assignments given to that clerk. Law clerks also do client intake interviews and, if they are interested, have the opportunity to watch our attorneys in court, argue their own motions (if certified), and do some investigation.

5. Will I be working for one specific attorney?: No. Law clerks receive research assignments from a variety of attorneys. Each law clerk is, however, assigned a mentor attorney who will supervise them, answer questions, offer feedback, and, if the law clerk is certified, supervise them in court.

6. Is there training for law clerks?: Yes. There is an initial training session, familiarizing the law clerks with the types of research they will be doing and the most helpful research tools. Law clerks are also assigned a mentor attorney, who they can go to with questions as they arise.

7. Who should I contact about employment as a law clerk?: Summer law clerks and interns should contact:
Jonathan Laba - [email protected]

Graduate law clerks interested in a position with the department should contact:
Robin lipetzky - [email protected]

8. When should I apply?: We accept applications beginning in October and usually extend offers of employment by March.

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Public Defender General

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1. What should I do if I am arrested or I believe I am under suspicion in a police investigation?: You should either telephone our office or come into one of our offices to speak with an attorney before you speak to the police or anyone else. Consultation with an attorney is always the most prudent step. Most police officers or investigators will understand and must respect your desire to first speak with an attorney.
Any consultation with an attorney from the Office of Public Defender will be completely confidential. Telephone calls from any local jail are free and collect calls regarding matters pending in Contra Costa County will be accepted.

2. What is a public defender?: A public defender is an attorney licensed by the State Bar of California who is appointed by the court to represent people who are financially unable to afford to hire an attorney.

3. What kinds of cases does the Office of Public Defender handle?: Attorneys from the Office of Public Defender represent adults charged with crimes (misdemeanor or felony) or violations of probation; and minors (persons under 18) charged in the juvenile court. Public defenders do not represent persons accused of traffic violations or any code infraction which cannot result in a jail sentence.
Finally, public defenders are also sometimes appointed for representation of persons potentially subject to LPS proceedings under the relating to involuntary civil mental health commitments.

4. What will it cost to be represented by a public defender?: Adults charged with a crime and parents of juveniles may have to pay fees ordered by the court at the conclusion of the case. The client or parent is referred to the Cost Recovery Department of the county by the judge who orders the amount to be paid.
The Cost Recovery Department makes a determination as to how much, if any, of the ordered amount the person can afford to pay. This determination is made on a sliding scale based upon the person's financial resources. A payment scheduled may be arranged with the Cost Recovery Department. The Office of the Public Defender is not involved in the determination of, or collection of fees.

5. How do I get copies of my police reports?: Call your lawyer and discuss it with them. There are rules that we must follow before releasing police reports to anyone.

6. What happens at my first court appearance?: At the first court appearance, you will be told by the judge what your charges are. At that time, the judge will ask you if you can afford to hire your own attorney. If you can’t afford an attorney, the judge will ask if you want to be referred to the Public Defender’s Office for representation. If you ask to be referred, there will be a legal assistant from our office in the courtroom who will meet with you to get some background information and to conduct a financial screening to see if you qualify for our services. If you do qualify, an attorney will represent you that day. If you are in custody, the attorney will be able to request that the judge reduce your bail or release you on your own recognizance. If your court date is in the Pittsburg courthouse for a felony offense, and you are not in custody, you may be asked to come back to court the following week and to come to our office for an interview before the next date.

7. Can I get a public defender to represent me in a civil, family law, or immigration case?: No, but a private attorney may be able to help you. If you do not have a lawyer, you can call the Lawyer Referral Service which is operated by the Contra Costa County Bar Association. Their phone number is 925-825-5700. If you cannot afford a lawyer you may call the Bay Area Legal Aid at 800-551-5554 or Contra Costa Senior Legal Services at 510-374-3304.

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1. Can Public Works fix my streetlight?: If the streetlight is the County's responsibility, Special District's staff will arrange for repair of the streetlight. If the streetlight is PG&E's responsibility, Special District's staff will submit a work request to PG&E. If the streetlight is the City's responsibility, the customer will be directed to contact the city's service center for repairs. To report an inoperable streetlight or questions about a streetlight email Special Districts or call (925) 313-2000.

2. Can the County remove a fallen tree in the creek behind my property?: The County can only remove trees from creeks that they maintain. Usually these are improved (concrete lined or earth trapezoidal) channels. Some creeks are maintained only for capacity, not erosion or other damage.

3. Can the County Surveyor help resolve a dispute with my neighbor about the location of our fence?

The County Surveyor has no authority to mediate private property issues.

Standard Plans

4. Can we have a stop sign to control speeding?: A stop sign is intended to determine the right of way at an intersection. It is a rather poor speed control device. Studies have shown that the effectiveness of a stop sign on speed ranges from 10 to 150 feet from the sign, after which a vehicle will regain its original speed or faster. If a speeding problem exists, the County can park a radar trailer on your street to inform drivers of their speed.

5. Can you give me information about all of the easements that cross my property?: No. If your property is a lot in a subdivision we can provide a copy of the recorded subdivision map which will show easements created by that map and other easements affecting the property at that time; however, there is no reason to assume that other easements have not been created since. A title company insurance policy or preliminary title report is the best source of disclosing things such as easements affecting a particular property.

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1. Does the County Surveyor's Office perform surveys for the general public?

No. The County Surveyor only performs on County owned land, including County road and flood control channel rights-of-way.

Only a land surveyor or qualified pre-1982 civil engineer licensed in the state of California can provide property line location for a private survey in this state. Contact information for these professionals can be found in a telephone directory, by searching the Internet, or by contacting engineering and land surveying societies (see Resources, P. 22 of the Consumer Guide to Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors or California Land Surveyors Association, Find a Surveyor). The California State Board website is another source of information for researching licensed engineers or land surveyors in your city or county where you can verify that the professional is currently and properly licensed and find out if there have been any complaints or disciplinary actions taken against the person’s license.

Upcoming Projects / Bid Opportunities

2. Do you have maps and other records available online?: Yes, Tract Maps (also known as Subdivision Maps), Parcel Maps, Records of Survey and Corner Records are now available for viewing and download at not cost through the Public Works Records webpage. Click on the Laserfiche link.

3. Do you have the flow rate at a specific location on a creek?: The Flood Control District has over 2,000 data points where the flow rates have been calculated. Most of these are the “design” flow rates based on General Plan build out2. Depending on the watershed size, the flow rate could be for the 10-year, 25-year, 50-year or 100-year flood. For information on the flow rates that the Flood Control District has for these data points call the
County Public Works Department, Flood Control Division at (925) 313-2000 or email your request.

4. Do you issue tract and parcel map numbers?: For tract numbers for the entire county, and parcel map numbers for the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa, contact the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) (925) 674-7722. For parcel maps in other cities, obtain the number from the city.

5. Does the Flood Control District provide sand bags?

The Flood Control District does not provide sand bags to private property owners. Often, in times of emergencies, the County may provide sandbags during significant storm events to residents in the unincorporated county.

There are, however, locations throughout the County where residents may go to fill their own sandbags. Please note that you will need to bring a shovel, but the bags and sand are available for free. For more information on this, please visit the County's webpage for sandbag locations.

If you live in a City, contact your City Public Works Department for information and/or assistance in preparation for conditions requiring their use.

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1. How do I obtain GIS information?: For Public Works GIS information, email Wiley Osborn. For Countywide GIS information, email Shashi Ganjam.

2. How are Area of Benefit (AOB) fees determined?: AOB fees are determined based upon the relationship between the total estimated cost to construct road improvement projects on the AOB project list and development potential projections within the AOB boundary.

3. How do I become a vendor?: All purchases for Contra Costa County must be processed by Contra Costa County Purchasing. Email Purchasing or call (925) 957-2499.

4. How do I calculate the Flood Control flow data point? Do I need to know the post development design flows for my project?: If the watershed is small, you can use the Rational Method to calculate the design flow rate. If the area is large or you need hydrographs for designing a detention basin, the Flood Control District can calculate the hydrographs for you. You need to request a HYDRO6 submittal package. There is a fee for the District to calculate the flows for you. Contact the Hydrology Section at the number below and they can e-mail the HYDRO6 instructions and submittal package to you. You may also purchase the submittal package at the front counter of the Public Works Department office (255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, CA 94553).

5. How do I contact an inspector?: If you cannot contact the inspector listed on your permit, you may call the Design/Construction Division at (925) 313-2320.

6. How do I determine the 25-year 24-hour storm depth?

Find your project location on the Mean Seasonal Isohyet Map that can be found at the Hydrology Standards link (below) and determine the mean seasonal rainfall for your site. Then, use the 25-year Precipitation Duration-Frequency-Depth Curve found at the same link. Find 24-hours (1-day) on the x-axis, go up parallel to the y-axis on the graph to the mean seasonal rainfall for your site. Go horizontal parallel to the x-axis to the y-axis to read off the rainfall depth for the 25-year 24-hour storm.

Hydrology Standards

7. How do I find out how much my Area of Benefit (AOB) fees will be for my project?: AOB fees are calculated during the plan check phase of your project. If you would like an AOB fee estimate earlier, you may contact the AOB Program Manager at the Contra Costa County Public Works Department at (925) 313-2000 or email Public Works.

8. How do I get a vesting tentative map for my development project?

Please submit a development plan application to the Community Development Division of the Department of Conservation and Development.

For more information review the Your Project and the Public Works Department document

9. How do I get an encroachment permit?

Please submit an encroachment permit application form to our County Permit Center.

Application & Permit Center
30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553
(925) 674-7200

Visit the Permit Portal for Encroachment Permits information

10. How do I get permission for my contractor and I to temporarily use land owned by the County or Flood Control District?: Please contact Jessica Dillingham, Principle Real Property Agent, at (925) 957-2453 or email the Public Works Department.

11. How do I obtain a title report on my property?: To obtain a title report, you must contact a private title company.

12. How do I report hazardous material spills or dumping?: To report potentially hazardous materials which have been dumped or spilled, contact County Health Services Department - Hazardous Materials Division at (925) 655-3200 or email HazMat. Visit their website for more information.

13. How do I report debris in creeks?: Call the Contra Costa Clean Water Program hotline at 1(800)No-Dumping or report online.

14. How do I report debris on private property or a vacant lot?: If the debris is located on property within a city, contact that city. If the debris is located on private property within the unincorporated area, call the Building Inspection Department at (925) 655-2704 or Building Code Hotline at (925) 655-2737 or visit the Building Inspection webpage for more information.

15. How do I report the lack of garbage services?: Garbage service is mandatory for all occupied residences located within the unincorporated areas (county code chapter 418-6), unless an exemption has been granted by the Health Officer. To make a report please call the County Health Services Department-Environmental Health Division at (925) 608-5500 or email them or file a complaint online. For more information visit the Environmental Health website.

16. How do I report unresolved garbage/recycling collection company complaints?: If you are unable to resolve a service complaint with your garbage/recycling collection company, you can contact the Department of Conservation and Development at (925) 655-2700 and you will be referred to the appropriate governmental agency in your area. For more information visit the Conservation and Development website.

17. How do I record a final map?

Please submit the information indicated on the Final Maps document to our Engineering Services Division at:

Contra Costa County
Public Works Department
255 Glacier Drive
Martinez, CA 94553

If you have questions email Public Works or call (925) 313-2000.

18. How do I transfer title to my child or another person?: Contact the County Assessor's Office at (925) 313-7500.

19. How will I know which number is the streetlight pole number?: The pole number can be 1-10 digits. The numbers are on plastic stickers, about 2-3 inches, with black numerals on a white background.

20. How do I report a train that appears to be stuck and blocking a railroad crossing for an extended period of time?

Blocked crossings occur when stopped trains impede the flow of motor vehicle or pedestrian traffic at railroad tracks for extended periods of time. Blocked crossings pose potential safety risks, specifically in locations where trains routinely hinder roadway and pedestrian movement for extended periods. In these cases, frustrated drivers seeking to avoid extended delays may attempt to clear the crossing before a train arrives, and pedestrians may be tempted to crawl between stopped railcars. Further, blocked crossings can have detrimental effects on quality of life, making people late for work, school, and appointments and possibly contributing to roadway congestion. Currently, there are approximately 130,000 public highway/rail grade crossings in the United States.

If you are experiencing an blocked crossing for an extended period visit the Federal Railroad Administration website to report it.

21. How do I file a Map (Parcel or Final)?: Use the Contra Costa County Parcel Maps and Final Maps Checklist to determine what information is needed.

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1. What are Area of Benefit (AOB) funds used for?: AOB Funds are used to fund projects that improve the capacity and safety of the existing roadway network. AOB funds will be used to fund projects that are listed on the AOB project list. AOB project lists are available at the Contra Costa County Public Works Department.

2. What are Best Management Practices (BMPs)?: BMPs are devices or control measures for managing stormwater run-off. They include structural drainage inlet protection like catch basin inserts, gravel bags and straw waddles as well as operational controls like training, good housekeeping, adequate spill response and proper material handling and storage.

3. What are Pollutants of Concern (POCs)?: POCs are pollutants that impair waterways which are commonly found in urban run-off. They include Total Suspends Solids (TSS), sediment, bacteria (fecal coliform) and pathogens, heavy metals (e.g., lead, zinc), oil and grease, polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), synthetic organics (pesticides, PCBs), nutrients (fertilizers), oxygen demanding substances (vegetations, pet waste), and litter.

4. What are the Public Works Counter hours of service, phone numbers, and location?: The Public Works is located at 255 Glacier Drive in Martinez. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.). The main phone number is (925) 313-2000.

5. What can property owners do to help the County's maintenance efforts of private trees and other vegetation?: Property owners can help the County’s maintenance efforts by preventing private trees and shrubs from encroaching onto County roads. These encroachments are in violation of Division 1002 of the Title 10 County Ordinance Code. Please see this diagram for acceptable tree clearances (PDF). For information on power lines and trees, please see the PG&E website on this subject.

6. What can property owners do to prevent fallen leaves from creating blockages in the drainage system?: Property owners can help by removing the leaves that have fallen onto their property, and disposing of them in a proper manner. Clear the tops of grates and in front of culvert pipes. With every property owners’ help, we can prevent flooding and help the environment. Please see the Drainage Maintenance Brochure (PDF) for more information on how to prepare.

7. What do I do if my neighbor informed me that I am encroaching on his property?: How did your neighbor come to this determination? Request the official filed map of the survey that provided a surveyor's opinion of your shared boundary line. You can hire a surveyor yourself.

8. What information should I provide when reporting a streetlight outage?: Please provide the following information: the nearest street address, cross street and pole number.

9. What is a cape seal?: A cape seal is applied in a two-step process. The first step in the process involves application of a chip seal; the second step involves the application of a slurry seal. Cape seals are used on collector and residential roads that have a significant amount of wear. Schedule information regarding the contracted cape seal application can be obtained by calling the Public Works Department’s Construction Division at (925) 313-2320.

10. What is a micro-surface seal?: A micro-surface seal is a mixture of fine aggregate and liquid asphalt that is spread over the pavement by a County-hired contractor. Micro-surface seals are used on arterial, collector and residential roads that are in good condition. Schedule information regarding the contracted micro-surface seal application can be obtained by calling the Public Works Department’s Construction Division at (925) 313-2320.

11. What is a slurry seal?: A slurry seal is a mixture of fine aggregate, liquid asphalt and water that is spread over the pavement by a County hired contractor. Slurry seals are used on arterial, collector and residential roads that are in good condition. Schedule information regarding the contracted slurry seal application can be obtained by calling the Public Works Department’s Construction Division at (925) 313-2320.

12. What is a traffic Area of Benefit (AOB)?: A traffic Area of Benefit (AOB) is a development traffic mitigation fee program designed to improve the capacity and safety of the County’s road network within a defined boundary as development occurs. The AOB fee programs are supported by County ordinances which are adopted by the County Board of Supervisors. Money collected within a given AOB will be used to fund road improvement projects that mitigate traffic impacts generated by new development projects.

13. What is a Watershed?: All of the land that drains to a common receiving body of water. In Contra Costa County we have 32 watersheds, several of these share boundaries with Alameda County. Watersheds are commonly named for the waterway or water body they flow to.

14. What is an illicit discharge and who do I call to report it?

An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater discharge or discharge to the storm drain system that is not composed entirely of rain or precipitation run-off.

Call 911 or the Sheriff’s Dispatch (925) 646-2441 to report an illegal discharge going on right now. Call (925) 313-2236 to report an illicit discharge that has taken place in unincorporated County or call 1 (800) NO-DUMPING to report an illicit discharge that occurred in other cities/towns in Contra Costa County.

15. What is an NOI and what permits does it cover?: An NOI is a “Notice of Intent’ application to be included in one of CA’s General Stormwater Discharge Permits. If you are a commercial or industrial facility covered by certain NAIC code like chemical manufacturing or vehicle servicing, you may be required to file an NOI for inclusion in CA’s General Permit for Industrial Facilities. If you disturb soil of more than 1 acre you may be required to file an NOI for inclusion in CA’s General Construction permit. If you are a point source discharger like an industrial facility you may be required to apply for an individual NPDES permit. If you are a municipality that owns/maintains an MS4 you may be required to apply for a Municipal Stormwater Discharge NPDES permit.

16. What is C.3?: C.3 refers to Provision C.3 of the County’s NPDES Permit, which was added to the Permit in 2003. This provision requires stormwater runoff from projects creating and/or redeveloping at least 10,000 square feet of impervious surface to treat stormwater runoff with permanent stormwater management facilities, and requires projects creating and/or redeveloping to design such facilities to control runoff rates and volumes (in addition to treatment). Projects that are not required to comply with C.3 still implement permanent stormwater controls to the maximum extent practicable.

17. What is IPM and what are some ways I can try it?: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an ecological approach to dealing with pests using mechanical, physical, biological, and cultural methods first and chemicals generally as a last resort.

18. What is NPDES and who oversees it?: NPDES stands for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. It’s a permitting program required under the U.S. Clean Water Act for discharges to surface waters of the U.S. In CA, USEPA has delegated its authority to implement the NPDES Program to CAL/EPA’s State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) who in turn manages the NPDES Program via five Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs). In Contra Costa County, two RWCQBs oversee our County’s discharges to the Bay and the Delta, the San Francisco Bay and Central Valley RWCQBs, respectively.

19. What is the Adopt-A-Road Program?: The Adopt-A-Road Program encourages organizations, corporations, groups and individuals to participate by providing volunteers to maintain and enhance Contra Costa County roads. For more information, please refer to our Adopt-A-Road Program guide (PDF). If you have questions about the program, please call (925) 313-7000.

20. What is the construction work occurring on a County Road or Flood Control Facility?: The Department maintains online project information on capital improvement projects. If the project is not on the list, it may be part of a development project and/or is being done under an encroachment permit. Contact the Design/Construction Division at (925) 313-2320.

21. What is the CRIPP?: The CRIPP is a programming document that anticipates revenues and identifies maintenance, rehabilitation, safety, and capacity improvement projects to be funded with the identified revenues.

22. What is the design storm for my project?

The County Title 9 (Title 9: 911-2.010) set the design storm based on the watershed area draining to the creek of drainage facility as follows:

Area < 1.0 sq. mi. Contain, with sufficient freeboard, a ten year frequency of average recurrence interval (10-year)
1.0 sq. mi. ≤ Area ≤ 4 sq. mi. Contain, with sufficient freeboard, a 25-year frequency of average recurrence interval (25-year)
4.0 sq. mi.≥ Area Contain, with sufficient freeboard, a 50-year frequency of average recurrence interval (50-year) OR Contain the 100-year frequency of average recurrence interval (100-year)

23. What is the difference between a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and a Stormwater Control Plan (SWCP)?: A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is a document that describes how a project will prevent pollution during the construction process. This document details how erosion will be prevented and how sediment will be controlled, as well as how other construction-related pollutants, such as concrete dust and fluids from construction equipment, will be prevented. SWPPPs, which are required under the California Construction General Permit, must be submitted for projects disturbing at least 1 acre of soil, and for certain projects involving less earthwork but pose special threats to water quality. Smaller projects also are required to implement adequate erosion and sediment controls.

A Stormwater Control Plan (SWCP) is a document that details permanent stormwater management facilities (such as bioretention areas) that will be incorporated into development projects to treat stormwater runoff and control runoff rates and volumes after the construction process is completed. SWCPs are required for projects that must implement permanent stormwater management facilities to comply with C.3 of the NPDES Permit.

24. What is the difference between point source and non-point source?: A point source, also termed ‘end of pipe’ discharge, is a discharge from a defined, discrete conveyance like an outfall coming off an industrial property. The US Clean Water Act was enacted to stop point source discharges like sewage and industrial chemicals to our waterways.

Today, non-point source pollution is the primary contributor of pollutants to our waterways. It comes from a variety of diffuse sources like atmospheric deposition, automotive leaks, and brake pad dust, fertilizer and pesticide use, construction, agriculture, mining and fecal waste. Pollutants from these sources are picked up by urban run-off and deposited into our surface waters impairing their beneficial uses.

Municipalities are required to educate residents and inspect business in stormwater pollution prevention practices.

25. What is the difference between the County Watershed Program and the Contra Costa Clean Water Program?: Both the Contra Costa Clean Water Program and the County Watershed Program (CWP) are tasked with ensuring compliance with the Municipal Stormwater National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit.

The NPDES permit is issued to the Clean Water Program, which is a collaboration between the County (represented by the County Watershed Program), the 19 incorporated cities and towns in the County, and the County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (“Co-Permittees”).

The Clean Water Program (http://www.cccleanwater.org) has its own staff that interacts with regulatory and elected officials, and provides guidance to the Co-Permittees. The Co-Permittees benefit from these collaborative efforts which the individual jurisdictions time and money. Ultimately, however, each jurisdiction is individually responsible for administering the NPDES permit within the bounds of its jurisdiction.

Operationally, the County Watershed Program is a program within the Flood Control Division of the County’s Public Works Department. CWP is responsible for ensuring compliance with the NPDES permit in the unincorporated areas of the County.

26. What is the difference between the storm drain system and the sanitary sewer?: Storm drain systems include the gutter, drainage inlets, catch basins, piping and the waterways they convey stormwater to in order to prevent flooding of our streets. Stormwater flows through these conveyances directly to receiving waterbodies such as the Delta and Bay without being treated. Storm drain systems are also often referred to as MS4s or Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems. Sanitary sewers transfer wastewater from our homes and businesses to wastewater treatment plants for primary, secondary or tertiary treatment prior to being discharged to receiving waterbodies via outfall pipes or reclaimed for irrigation purposes.

27. What is the Public Works Budget?: Visit the County Administrator's Office site for the County's budget information including Public Works.

28. What projects are upcoming or currently advertised?: Current and future projects are listed in our Advertised & Upcoming Construction Projects webpage.

29. What should I do if I see someone dumping garbage on private or public property?: Illegal dumping is a serious problem in the County. Do not approach someone illegally dumping on public land or streets. Record the license plate number and vehicle information. When it is safe, contact local law enforcement and report it providing the license plate number and vehicle information (i.e., year, make, model, color, etc.). If the dumping occurs in the unincorporated county report it to the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Department. If the dumping occurs within incorporated city limits report it to the local Police Department. Dumping on private land should be reported to Code Enforcement at (925) 655-2710 for file a complaint online.

30. What is a Chip Seal?

The County Public Works Department Maintenance crews perform two types of chip seal:

A single chip seal involves spraying liquid asphalt on the pavement followed by the spreading of a layer of small aggregate (chips) that is embedded into the oil.
A double-chip seal is a single chip seal with a second application (layer) of liquid asphalt and small aggregate.

Single and double-chip seals are typically used on arterial and collector roads that have a significant amount of wear and high traffic volume. Schedule information regarding the chip seal application can be obtained by calling the Public Works Department Maintenance Division at (925) 313-7000, or you can visit our Pavement Management Program page.

31. What is the basis of the Area of Benefit (AOB) Program?

The Area of Benefit (AOB) Program is based on the following government codes:

California Government Code Section 66000-66025 (Mitigation Fee Act)
California Government Code Section 66484 (Subdivision Map Act)
Title 9 Division 913 of the Contra Costa County Ordinance Code

32. What is the County's responsibility in maintaining private drainage systems?

Contra Costa County has 31 major watersheds and sub-watersheds containing more than 1,300 miles of creeks and drainages. Of that total, the County maintains approximately 75 miles of improved creeks and drainages. The rest is the responsibility of private property owners.

The County maintains only those drainage facilities required as a condition of development constructed to standards applicable at the time of construction and located in an easement or other land right accepted by the County. Creek maintenance is the responsibility of the owner whose property abuts a creek.

When the creek area is not properly maintained, the resulting obstructions can lead to increased flooding, changes in the course of the creek, and increased erosion on the obstructed property and/or downstream properties. See Division 1010 of the Title 10 County Ordinance Code for more information on. The Public Works Department recommends the following guidelines on private creek maintenance (PDF).

33. What is the drainage easement across my property? Can I build on it? What can I do on it?

Easements provide the Public Works Department and Flood Control District with land rights for construction, reconstruction, maintaining and accessing its drainage facilities and for other related purposes. Some access easements are not used regularly but must be kept clear for potential future use. An easement allows the property owner use of the property as long as it does not interfere with easement rights.
No permanent structures or encroachments will be permitted or constructed within or over any drainage easement. This includes, but is not limited to:

fill slopes
retaining walls
fencing
sheds
landscaping

Any such obstructions will be removed as necessary for maintenance and access purposes and will not be repaired or replaced (Title 0; 914-14.010).

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1. When should I expect my check?

Payments usually take four weeks. If it is past four weeks, please call:

Developer: (925) 313-2209

Contract Vendor: (925) 313-2375

Other Public Works Vendor: (925) 313-2350

Non-Public Works Check

2. When and how are Area of Benefit (AOB) fee rates adjusted?: Fees are adjusted periodically to reflect changes in development potential and traffic needs. Fees are also subject to change annually based on changes in the applicable construction costs index.
Purchasing

3. When and how are Area of Benefit (AOB) fees collected?: AOB fees are collected through the Department of Conservation and Development, Building Inspection Division at the issuance of the building permit. Fees are collected at the rate in effect at the time the building permit is issued.

4. When are Area of Benefit (AOB) fee credits granted?: AOB fee credits are granted when the preexisting use is replaced by a new use that generates more traffic. The applicant would receive credit for traffic generated by the preexisting use. A project that changes a single family home into a commercial/retail building, or modifies a light industrial building into a commercial/retail building are examples of projects that would receive fee credit.

5. When are Area of Benefit (AOB) fee waivers granted?: AOB fee waivers are granted only when vehicle trips are not added to the road network as a result of the proposed development (e.g. replacing an existing single family home, with a new single family home).

6. When does the County perform its surface treatment work?: The County's surface treatment work typically begins in the summer and ends in the fall. The schedule may vary depending on weather conditions and/or the need to recalibrate equipment.

7. When does the County sweep the streets?: For information on the County's street sweeping schedule visit the Contra Costa Clean Water Program Street Sweeping webpage or contact the County's Street Sweeping Manager at (925) 313-2296.

8. When is my street swept?: If you live on a publicly maintained street in unincorporated Contra Costa County with curb and gutter, your street is swept once per month. To view the County’s street sweeping schedule visit the Contra Costa Clean Water Program Street Sweeping webpage and confirm that your street is included on our street list. If you have further questions call CWP at (925) 313-2236.

9. When do I need an encroachment permit and where do I get one?: An encroachment permit is needed for any work within County Road or Flood Control Right of Way. Visit the Permit Portal for information about permits and permitting or email the Application and Permit Center.

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1. Where are the checklists for filing maps and what are the fees associated with map submittals?

Fee schedules are currently a part of the checklists.

2. Where can I find your design standards?: The District is preparing to bring all its standards into one document. Until then, email the Flood Control District or at call (925) 313-2000 if you have questions. We will be happy to explain, e-mail, or mail you information about our standards.

3. Where can I find the current Area of Benefit (AOB) Fee Schedule?: The current Area of Benefit (AOB) fee schedule can be found by following this link: Traffic Fee Schedule (PDF).

4. Where can I get the Contra Costa County Standard Plans?: Hard copies of the Standard Plans may be purchased at Contra Costa County Public Works Department for a fee. The plans may also be viewed online in the Public Works website.

5. Where do I apply for a permit to do construction on my property?

Contact the Application & Permit Center at (925) 674-7200 or visit the Permit Portal for information. They will assist you in determining which permits you need for your project.

Your Project and the Public Works Department (PDF)

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1. Who do I contact if a streetlight is our or blinking?: Contact the Public Works Department at (925) 313-2000 or (925) 313-2286 or email Special Districts.

2. Who do I contact if I have flooding on my street?: During normal work hours, call Public Works Maintenance Division at (925) 313-7000 or email Public Works Maintenance. To report from your mobile device download Mobile Citizen app. If it is something that could be an emergency after hours, call the Sheriff's dispatch at (925) 646-2441.

3. Who do I contact if I have questions about the road surface treatment work?: Schedule information regarding the chip seal application can be obtained by calling the Public Works Department Maintenance Division at (925) 313-7000 or emailing Maintenance. Scheduling information regarding the contracted slurry seal, cape seal, and micro-surface seal application can be obtained by contacting the Public Works Department’s Construction Division at (925) 313-2320. Please visit our Pavement Management Program page for more information.

4. Who do I contact if I think I am eligible for an Area of Benefit (AOB) fee waiver or credit?: Contact the AOB Program Manager at the Contra Costa County Public Works Department at (925) 313-2000 or email Public Works.

5. Who do I contact to determine if I need a permit for work on my house, street or creek?: Contact the Application and Permit Center at (925) 674-7200 or email the Permit Center. For more information about permits visit the Permit Portal website.

6. Who do I contact to report a graffiti on public or private property?: Graffiti is a serious problem that creates visual blight and diminishes property values. Graffiti is a crime and should be reported to the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Department. Occasionally, the markings are gang related and promote violence in the area. The quick removal of the graffiti is one of the most effective deterrents of additional “tagging.” Additionally you may contact the following departments; for publicly owned property such as street signs, sidewalks and freeway underpasses marked with graffiti should be reported to the Public Works department at (925) 313-7000. Privately owned property such as the sides of buildings and fences should be reported to Code Enforcement (925) 674-7210 or Toll Free at (877) 646-8314.

7. Who do I contact to report a pothole?: To report a pothole in the unincorporated area of Contra Costa County call Public Works Maintenance at (925) 313-7000 or email Maintenance. To report on the go download the Mobile Citizen app to your mobile device. Visit our Mobile Citizen page to learn more about it. If you have an emergent issue after hours call (925) 646-2441.

8. Who do I contact if I want to report illegal dumping?

To report Illegal Dumping, please call the Contra Costa Clean Water Program hotline at 1 (800) NO-DUMPING or 1 (800) 663-8674. The following are some useful links:

To report active illegal dumping, please call Sheriff Dispatch at (925) 646-2441.

9. Who is responsible for mitigating sidewalk tripping hazards?

Tripping hazards that are identified are documented, and, in accordance with the California Streets and Highways Code (PDF), property owners are given notice requesting that they replace the damaged sidewalk fronting their property. In addition, property owners are notified that County Ordinance 2008-24 (PDF) heightens the liability on the property owner if a member of the public is injured as a result of the property owner’s failure to maintain the sidewalk in a safe condition.

For more answers to frequently asked questions regarding sidewalk repairs, refer to our "Sidewalk Repair FAQ (PDF)".

10. Who pays Area of Benefit (AOB) fees?

Anyone who develops property and adds additional vehicle trips to the road network is subject to AOB fees. This includes, but is not limited to property owners, residential developers, commercial developers, and industrial developers.

What are some of the possible fee categories?

Single Family Residential
Multi Family Residential
Office
Industrial
Light Industrial
Commercial
Other Uses (As determined per Peak Hour Trip generation)

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PW - Why can't I, Why do I, etc.

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1. Why can’t I throw my grass clippings in the creek?: Grass clippings or other yard waste smothers natural vegetation and can add excessive nutrients to the creek. When the yard waste decays it introduces high nutrient levels, which reduces oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic life in the creek. The material can also float downstream, lodge against trees, and become a major obstruction to stormwater flows. Current State regulations prohibit the discharge, dumping or release of potential pollutants into watercourses. This includes grass clippings and yard waste.

2. Why do I need a permit to work in the creek?: County ordinances require that proposed work in creeks in unincorporated areas be reviews and allowed only by a County Drainage Permit. The Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (FC District) boundaries cover all of Contra Costa County. Within FC District right of ways (where FC District faculties were built and are maintained) a FC District Encroachment Permit is required. Within it's right of way FC District can dictate construction standards and methods, hydraulic and hydrology calculation methods, and other standards such as freeboard standards. The County has adopted the FC District standards and so in the unincorporated areas the FC District standards are used. FEMA will require you to use the FCD flow rates in any FEMA study. Other State and Federal entities have authority to control work with in creeks and riparian areas. When you apply for a Drainage Permit or FC District Encroachment Permit, we ensure that the permits are obtained from those entities as well.

3. Why do they spray oil on the road before they place the asphalt during a road surface treatment?: The oil helps the new asphalt layer bond to the existing pavement below it.

4. Why do I not see construction activity associated with the road surface treatment when I drive by?: The normal construction day is between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm. Workers may be out earlier or later depending on what portion of the project they are working on.

5. Why does the County not maintain the culvert/ditch behind my house?: The County maintains only those drainage facilities required as a condition of development constructed to standards applicable at the time of construction and located in an easement, or other land right, dedicated to and accepted by the County.

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PW - Will I, Will you, etc.

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1. Will I still have access to my driveway during the road surface treatment work?: Driveway access will be maintained throughout construction, but property owners may be subject to some delays.

2. Will traffic be severely disrupted due to the road surface treatment work?: It is possible to experience delays, but provisions have been made to ensure the flow of traffic in each direction for the duration of the project to minimize disruptions.

3. Will you do research for land surveyors and send it (fax, email) to them?: You must do the research yourself. You are in responsible charge of your map, including research.

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Recycling, Composting & Garbage

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1. What materials can I recycle or reuse locally?: There are a wide range of materials that are either recycled or reused in Contra Costa County. For specific information about items that can be recycled curbside or at local centers, visit our Waste Reduction & Recycling web pages which includes listing of options / vendors by material type. You can also call the County Recycling Hotline at 800-750-4096 to ask about options for recycling any material / product.
Search & alphabetic list of materials/products.

2. What can I put in my recycling bin / cart at home?: For listing of materials that can be recycled in your local curbside collection program, please visit our Waste Reduction & Recycling web pages and click on the link for your community / city.
Curbside Recycling by City or Community Name.

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Redemption Taxes

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1. What will happen if I do not pay my annual Secured taxes on time?

If you do not pay the first installment of your annual tax bill at the Tax Collector’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on December 10 (if December 10 falls on a weekend or holiday, taxes are not delinquent until 5:00 p.m. the next business day), or payment is not U.S.P.S. postmarked by that date, then the taxes become delinquent and a 10% delinquent penalty is added to any unpaid balance.

If you do not pay the second installment at the Tax Collector’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on April 10 (if April 10 falls on a weekend or holiday, taxes are not delinquent until 5:00 p.m. the next business day.), or payment is not U.S.P.S. postmarked by that date, it becomes delinquent and a 10% penalty plus an administrative charge of $20.00 is added to the unpaid balance.

If you do not pay the installments of your supplemental tax bill by the applicable delinquency dates, the same penalties accrue as for delinquent annual taxes.

If you pay your second installment without having paid the first, your payment will be applied to the unpaid taxes and penalties on the first installment and will leave your second installment unpaid and possibly delinquent.

If you do not pay either or both installments at the Tax Collector’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on June 30 (if June 30 falls on a weekend or holiday, taxes must be paid by 5:00 p.m. on the preceding business day), or payment is not U.S.P.S. postmarked by date, then the property becomes tax-defaulted and additional penalties and costs accrue.

Once the property has become tax defaulted, a redemption fee of $15 and additional penalties begin to accrue at the rate of 1 1/2% per month of the unpaid taxes. This monthly penalty is added at 5 p.m. on the last day of each month (or the following business day if the last day of the month falls on a weekend or holiday).

Your taxes can remain unpaid for a maximum of five years following their tax default, after which time your property becomes subject to the power of sale. This means that your property will be sold at a public auction or acquired by a public agency if you do not pay the taxes before the date on which the property is offered for sale or acquisition.

The amount needed to redeem tax-defaulted property in full is the sum of the following:

The total amount of unpaid taxes for all delinquent years.
A 10% penalty on every unpaid installment.
A $20 administrative charge for each delinquent year.
Monthly penalties of 1 1/2% of the unpaid taxes accrued date.
A redemption fee of $15.

To obtain an estimate of the amount required to redeem your property, you should contact the Tax Collector’s Office at (925) 608-9500. When making your request, you will need to provide the Parcel Number, which you can find on any previous tax bill, the Sale ID (SID) found on your Redemption Tax Notice, or the address of the property. Also, be sure to specify the date on which you wish to redeem so that the penalty can be calculated properly. One year’s delinquent taxes may not be redeemed separately from other years delinquent taxes. When the redemption amount is calculated, the total taxes owed for all delinquent years are combined together.

2. What is the amount required to redeem tax-defaulted property?

The amount needed to redeem tax-defaulted property in full is the sum of the following:

The total amount of unpaid taxes for all delinquent years.
A 10% penalty on every unpaid installment.
A $20 cost for each unpaid 2nd installment.
Monthly interest of 1 1/2% of the unpaid taxes as of the accrued date.
A $15
State Redemption Fee
Additional costs added after five years.

To obtain an estimate of the amount required to redeem your property, contact the County Tax Collector’s Office at (925) 608-9500. Please provide either the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), the property address, or the tax-defaulted Sale ID number. Be sure to specify the month in which you plan to pay off or redeem your property so the correct amount is calculated properly.

3. What happens if I fail to pay my Redemption taxes?: Your taxes can remain unpaid for a maximum of five years following their tax default, at which time your property becomes subject to the Tax Collector's power of sale. This means that after being given an official notice of the pending sale, your property will be sold at a public auction or acquired by a public agency if you do not pay the full amount of Redemption before the date on which the property is offered for sale or acquisition.

4. Can I redeem one defaulted year separately from other years?: No, one year's defaulted taxes may not be redeemed separately from other years' defaulted taxes. When the Redemption amount is calculated, the total taxes owed for all defaulted years are combined together.

5. What happens if I cannot pay the full redemption amount?

If you are unable to pay the full redemption amount (for example, unpaid taxes for all defaulted years plus penalties and charges), you may start a Redemption Installment Plan. This plan allows you to make payments on your defaulted taxes over a five-year period beginning on the date you make the first payment of the installment plan.

NOTE: you must qualify for the installment plan within five years of the time the property first became tax-defaulted.

6. Who may apply for the Installment Plan of Redemption?: Any taxpayer may apply for Installment Plan for Redemption taxes as long the property in question has been in tax-default for less than five years.

7. How do I start installment plan of redemption?

To start an installment plan, you must:

Make an initial payment of at least 20% of the redemption amount; and
Pay your current year's taxes.

If you start an installment plan between July 1 and the following April 10, the current year's taxes and any supplemental taxes must be paid by April 10 or the payment plan will default. To start an installment plan between April 11 and June 30, all outstanding current year's taxes (plus any penalties and charges) must first be paid in full.

8. Is there a fee to apply for the installment plan?: No, currently there is no fee for applying.

9. When may I start a payment plan?

You can start a payment plan after the date on which the property has become tax defaulted (June 30) and within five years of that date. On the fifth year, your property becomes subject to the power of sale and a payment plan is no longer an option. The Redemption amount must be paid in full as a single payment in order to redeem the property from the tax sale.

If you wish detailed information about a payment plan of redemption, contact the Tax Collector's Office at (925) 608-9500.

10. How often will I be required to make payments on the installment plan?

Under the installment plan you are required to make at least one payment each year for five years, in addition to paying each year's annual taxes. By April 10 of each year you must have paid a sum total of 20% or more of the plan, plus interest (which accrues at the rate of 1-1/2% per month on the unpaid balance once the plan). If you do not pay the required amount of the plan or do not pay your current Secured Property or Supplemental Property taxes, if applicable, on or before April 10 of each year, then your installment plan will default.

You can, however, pay the total unpaid balance plus accrued interest any time before the fifth and final payment is due.

11. Does interest continue to accrue while participating in the installment plan?: Yes. Interest continues to accrue at a rate 1.5% per month (18% APR) on the unpaid balance.

12. If my installment plan defaults, may I start another one?

If your installment plan defaults due to failure to make the plan payment
or current year tax payment before the end of the fiscal year, you may
begin another installment plan provided less than five (5) years have
elapsed since the original tax default date. However, your next installment payment plan may not be started until July 1 of the following fiscal year. You may NEVER start a payment plan in the fiscal year the property becomes subject to the power of sale.

To start the new plan, you must pay at least 20% of the Redemption amount plus any current year and/or supplemental taxes that are due. Any payment(s) made on the previous (defaulted) plan will be applied toward the initial payment, but any interest savings that were achieved will be forfeited.

When you begin an installment plan, you have five (5) years to pay the full redemption amount. It is to your advantage not to default on an annual installment plan, as there are additional penalties. When a second installment plan is started, the minimum payment amounts are recalculated as though there had been no previous annual payment plan.

13. Do my installment payments cover my current annual taxes?: No. Your installment payments NEVER include your current year's taxes, which must be paid separately.

14. If I'm in foreclosure, who is responsible for the tax bill?: The taxpayer is responsible for the property tax bills. However, unpaid real estate property taxes remain with the property.

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Redistricting

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1. What is Redistricting?

Redistricting is the once-a-decade process of redrawing the political boundaries for elective offices after the U.S. Census.

Redistricting is the regular process of adjusting the lines of voting districts in response to accordance with population shifts within the County. Every ten years, supervisorial districts must be redrawn so that each district is substantially equal in population. This process is important in ensuring that each Supervisor represents about the same number of people. Redistricting is done using U.S. Census data, which is expected to be released by September 30, 2021.

In addition to being substantially equal in population, any supervisorial district boundaries must comply with voting rights laws. The California Voting Rights Act requires more than 500 jurisdictions in California to redistrict in 2021-2022.

2. Who is responsible for deciding the new supervisorial district boundaries?

In Contra Costa County, the Board of Supervisors is responsible for approving the final map of new supervisorial district boundaries. The effort will be supported by a multi-disciplinary team of staff from the County Administrator’s Office, Elections Office, Department of Conservation and Development, Department of Information and Technology, and other County departments. Ultimately, the Board of Supervisors will take final action on approval of a map that establishes the new supervisorial districts. The Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings and will receive public input. The process will include engagement with communities, including under-represented and non-English speaking communities, through the public hearings and public outreach process that is designed to develop supervisorial district maps that both meet legal requirements and reflect the County’s diversity.

Current Law requires that our redistricting process must be completed by December 15, 2021.

3. Why does redistricting matter to me?

Redistricting determines which neighborhoods and communities are grouped together into a district for purposes of electing a member of the Board of Supervisors who represents that district. The County Board of Supervisors is seeking input in establishing the next district map for our supervisorial districts through a public process. You have an opportunity to share with the County Board of Supervisors how you think supervisorial district boundaries should be drawn to best represent your community.

To read more about the process or provide input, please visit Contra Costa Redistricting website at www.CoCoRedistricting.org.

View a timeline of the process on the Timeline and Events page.

You can contact the County Clerk of the Board at [email protected] find out more about how the process works.

4. What do the current Supervisorial districts look like?

You can see the existing districts on the 2011 Supervisorial District Map (PDF).

Use our interactive map to find what district you live in.

5. What criteria will the County Board use when drawing district lines?

District lines must be drawn to ensure the five supervisorial districts are substantially equal in population. Under state law, population is determined based on the total population of residents of the County, as determined by the last Census. To the extent practicable, in accordance with the FAIRMAPS Act (AB 849), and as amended by AB 1276, district lines also must be adopted using the following criteria in the following order of priority:

To the extent practicable, supervisorial districts must be geographically contiguous.
To the extent practicable, the geographic integrity of any local neighborhood or local community of interest must be respected in a manner that minimizes its division.
To the extent practicable, the geographic integrity of a city or census designated place must be respected in a manner that minimizes its division.
Supervisorial district boundaries should be easily identifiable and understandable by residents. To the extent practicable, supervisorial districts must be bounded by natural and artificial barriers, by streets, or by the boundaries of the County.
To the extent practicable, and where it does not conflict with the any of the above criteria, supervisorial districts must be drawn to encourage geographical compactness in a manner that nearby areas of population are not excluded from a district in favor of including more distant populations.

In addition, boundaries cannot be drawn for purposes of favoring or discriminating against any political party.

6. How will the public be notified about redistricting?

The County will notify the public about redistricting hearings and workshops, post district maps online before the maps are adopted, and create a dedicated webpage for all relevant information about the redistricting process. The County will conduct a robust public messaging program and implement a community outreach plan to guide the County’s outreach to local media outlets and members of the public, including under-represented and non-English speaking communities. The County will publicize the redistricting process via social media engagement, press releases, public notices posted at County facilities, advertisements on Contra Costa Television (CCTV) (channels Comcast Cable 27, ATT/U-Verse 99, and WAVE 32), advertisements and notices in newspapers, and information on the County’s dedicated redistricting website. We will work with community groups of all kinds to inform them about the redistricting process.

Live language translation and other accommodations can be provided at our public hearings and workshops if a request for translation or accommodation is submitted at least 72 hours in advance of a scheduled public hearing or workshop.

Request live language translation and accommodations.

7. How can I get involved?

All members of the public are encouraged to share their views about County supervisorial redistricting at any of the public hearings or workshops. There will be redistricting workshops held in each of the five supervisorial districts. The purpose of these meetings is for the County to receive broad public input on the redistricting process. View the Redistricting Timeline and Events page for hearing and workshop dates.

Learn more about public input opportunities for redistricting.

8. Can I submit my own draft map?

The County will be holding both public hearings and workshops to receive public input on how supervisorial district lines should be drawn. You can find the public hearing and workshop schedule on the Redistricting Timeline and Events page.

Members of the public may submit their own proposed redistricting plans or draft maps directly to the County. The input from the public will help the County develop its redistricting plans.

Learn more about submitting your map idea.

9. Do I have to submit a completed map?

No, you can draw boundaries for any part of the County, or just the district where you’d like your neighborhood to be as part of a supervisorial district.

Learn more about submitting your map idea

10. Can I submit more than one map?: Yes!

11. What happens to draft maps submitted by the public?: Once submitted, maps from members of the public are considered public records and will be posted on the website. Your personal information will not be shared on the website.

12. What are Communities of Interest (COI)?

State law defines a “community of interest” as “a population that shares common social or economic, geographic, or cultural interests that should be included within a single supervisorial district for purposes of its effective and fair representation. Communities of interest do not include relationships with political parties, incumbents, or political candidates.”

One of the guidelines for drawing district boundaries is to learn about communities of interest across the County and to the extent practicable, to try to keep community of interest together in a district.

Learn more about Communities of Interest

13. How can I submit a Community of Interest for consideration?

You can also get involved in the Redistricting process to shape the supervisorial districts by

Submit a Community of Interest (COI) using our online mapping application.
Using an online community of interest form
Email us your comments
Mail your comments or letter to:
Clark of the Board, attn: Jami Morritt
1025 Escobar St, 1st floor
Martinez, CA 94553

14. How can I contact the County about redistricting?

Sign up to Receive Email Updates

Subscribe to receive email updates

Submit Comments Using the Online Mapping Tool

Use our easy online mapping tool to:

Draw and submit a map identifying your Community of Interest (COI);
Draw and submit a map of proposed supervisorial district boundaries; or
View tutorials about how to use the online mapping tool
Email our mapping staff or call us at (925) 655-2905 for questions on how to submit a map through the mapping tool.

Submit Comments Using the Online Form Submittal

Submit Comments by Email

Submit public comments by email to the County Clerk.

Additional Questions?

You can contact the County Clerk by email to find out more about how the process works or if you have any other questions.

Media Inquiries

Please contact the Office of Communications and Media via email or at (925) 313-1180.

15. What do the acronyms and categories mean on the demographic sheets?

These are standard categories included in the Census. Not all of the categories are relevant for creating district maps. Acronyms include:

• NH: Non-Hispanic

• VAP: Voting age population

• CVAP: Citizen Voting Age Population

• CVRA: California Voting Rights Act

16. Where can I learn more about redistricting?: There are a number of online publications and guides to redistricting. Visit our Redistricting Resource List

17. What if I do not speak English? // ¿Qué pasa si no hablo inglés?

The County is providing most some redistricting information in Spanish and Chinese (simplified).

FAQs - Spanish
FAQs - Chinese (Simplified)
Redistricting Flyer - Spanish (PDF)
Redistricting Flyer - Chinese (Simplified) (PDF)

If language or other accommodations are needed for a public hearing or workshop, please contact email the Clerk of the Board at least 72 hours in advance of each of the scheduled Public Hearing or Workshop.

If additional language access is needed, please email Clerk of the Board.

El Condado está proporcionando cierta información sobre la restructuración distrital en español y chino (simplificado).

Preguntas frecuentes - Español
Preguntas frecuentes - Chino (simpificado)
Volante de Restructuración Distrital - Español (PDF)
Volante de Restructuración Distrital - Chino (simpificado) [PDF]

Si requiere intepretación a otro idioma u otras adaptaciones para una audiencia pública o taller, contacte al Secretario del Consejo del Condado por lo menos con 72 horas de anticipación a cada una de las audiencias públicas o talleres.

如果我不说英语怎么办？

本县将以西班牙文和中文（简体）提供一些重划选区信息。

问答 – 西班牙文
问答 – 中文（简体）
重划选区传单 - 西班牙文 (PDF)
重划选区传单 - 中文（简体）(PDF)

如果公开听证会或研讨会上需要语言服务或其他方便措施，请在按计划举行的各次公开听证会或研讨会前至少 72 小时联系县议会书记官。

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Redistricting - Spanish

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1. ¿QUÉ ES LA RESTRUCTURACIÓN DISTRITAL?

La restructuración distrital es un proceso que ocurre cada diez años para trazar de nuevo los límites políticos para los cargos de elección popular después del Censo de los EE. UU.

La restructuración distrital es el proceso periódico que consiste en ajustar las líneas de los distritos electorales en respuesta a los cambios poblacionales ocurridos en el Condado. Cada 10 años, los distritos deben trazarse nuevamente, de modo que cada distrito tenga básicamente la misma población. Este proceso es imortante para garantizar que cada Supervisor represente aproximadamente el mismo número de personas. La restructuración distrital se realiza usando los datos del Censo de EE. UU., cuya publicación se espera a más tardar el 30 de septiembre de 2021.

Además de tener básicamente la misma población, los límites de cualquier distrito de supervisión deben observar las leyes de derechos de voto. The California Voting Rights Act requires more than 500 jurisdictions in California to redistrict in 2021-2022.

2. ¿QUIÉN TIENE LA RESPONSABILIDAD DE DECIDIR CUÁLES LOS NUEVOS LÍMITES DE LOS DISTRITOS DE SUPERVISIÓN?

En el Condado de Contra Costa, el Consejo de Supervisores es responsable de aprobar el mapa final de los nuevos límites de los distritos de supervisión. Esta labor estará respaldada por un equipo de personal multidisciplinario de la Oficina de Administración del Condado, la Oficina de Elecciones, el Departamento de Conservación y Desarrollo, el Departamento de Información y Tecnología y otros departamentos del Condado. En última instancia, el Consejo de Supervisores tomará la decisión final sobre la aprobación de un mapa que establezca los nuevos distritos de supervisión. El Consejo de Supervisores realizará audiencias públicas para recibir la opinión del público. El proceso incluirá la participación con comunidades, incluidas las comunidades que no tienen suficiente representación y las comunidades que no hablan inglés, mediante audiencias públicas y el proceso de difusión pública, que están diseñados para desarrollar mapas de distritos de supervisión que cumplan con los requisitos legales, al mismo tiempo que reflejen la diversidad del Condado.

La Ley actual requiere que el proceso de restructuración distrital se complete a más tardar el 15 de diciembre de 2021.

3. ¿POR QUÉ LA RESTRUCTURACIÓN DISTRITAL ES IMPORTANTE PARA MÍ?

La restructuración distrital determina qué vecindarios y comunidades se agrupan en un distrito para fines de elegir un miembro del Consejo de Supervisores que represente a ese distrito. A través de un proceso público, el Consejo de Supervisores del Condado busca opiniones para establecer el siguiente mapa distrital para nuestros distritos de supervisión. Usted tiene la oportunidad de compartir con el Consejo de Supervisores del Condado su opinión sobre cómo deben trazarse los límites de los distritos de supervisión para lograr la mejor representación de su comunidad.

Para conocer más sobre el proceso o para enviar su opinión, visite el sitio web de Restructuración Distrital de Contra Costa, en www.CoCoRedistricting.org.

Consulte el calendario del proceso en la página Calendario y Eventos de Restructuración Distrital.

Puede contactar al Secretario del Consejo del Condado, en [email protected], para ver más información sobre cómo funciona el proceso.

4. ¿CÓMO SON LOS DISTRITOS DE SUPERVISIÓN ACTUALES?

Puede ver los distritos actuales en el Mapa de Distritos de Supervisión 2011 (PDF).

Si necesita interpretación para otro idioma, comuníquese con el Secretario del Consejo por correo electrónico.

5. ¿QUÉ CRITERIOS SEGUIRÁ EL CONSEJO DE SUPERVISORES DEL CONDADO AL TRAZAR LAS LÍNEAS DISTRITALES?

Las líneas distritales deben trazarse de modo que garanticen que los cinco distritos de supervisión sean básicamente iguales en cuanto a población. De acuerdo con la ley estatal, la población se determina con base en la población total de residents del Condado, según la determine el Censo más reciente. En la medida en que resulte posible, de acuerdo con la Ley FAIRMAPS (Ley de Mapas Justos) [Proyecto de Ley 849], según se ha modificado por el Proyecto de Ley 1276, las líneas distritales también deben adoptarse usando los siguientes criterios, en el siguiente orden de prioridad:

En la medida en que resulte posible, los distritos de supervisión deben ser geográficamente contiguos.
En la medida en que resulte posible, la integridad geográfica de cualquier vecindario local o comunidad de interés local debe respetarse, de modo que su división se reduzca al mínimo.
En la medida en que resulte posible, la integridad geográfica de una ciudad o un lugar designado por el censo debe respetarse, de modo que su división se reduzca al mínimo.
Los límites de los distritos de supervisión deben ser fácilmente identificables y comprensibles para los residentes. En la medida en que resulte posible, los distritos de supervisión deben estar limitados por barreras naturales o artificiales, por calles o por los límites del Condado.
En la medida en que resulte posible, y cuando no exista conflicto con ninguno de los criterios anteriores, los distritos de supervisión deben trazarse para favorecer la compactibilidad geográfica, de manera que las áreas de población cercanas no queden excluidas de un distrito en favor de incluir poblaciones más alejadas.

Además, los límites no pueden trazarse para fines de favorecer o discriminar a ningún partido político.

6. ¿CÓMO SE NOTIFICARÁ AL PÚBLICO SOBRE LA RESTRUCTURACIÓN DISTRITAL?

Suscríbase para recibir notificaciones por correo electrónico.

El Condado notificará al público sobre las audiencias y los talleres de restructuración distrital, publicará en línea los mapas distritales antes de la adopción de los mapas y creará una página web exclusiva para toda la información relevante sobre el proceso de restructuración distrital. El Condado realizará un intenso programa de mensajes al público mediante la participación de los medios de comunicación e implementará un plan de difusión comunitaria para dirigir las comunicaciones del Condado a los medios de comunicación locales y los miembros del público, incluidas las comunidades que no tienen suficiente representación y las comunidades que no hablan inglés. El Condado publicará el proceso de restructuración distrital a través de la participación en las redes sociales, boletines de prensa, avisos públicos colocados en las instalaciones del Condado, anuncios en Contra Costa Television (CCTV) [canales Comcast Cable 27, ATT/U-Verse 99 y WAVE 32], anuncios y avisos en periódicos e información en la página web del Condado exclusiva para la restructuración distrital. Trabajaremos con los grupos comunitarios de todo tipo para informarles sobre el proceso de restructuración distrital.

En las audiencias públicas y los talleres puede brindarse interpretación en vivo a otros idiomas y otras adaptaciones si se presenta una solicitud de interpretación o adaptación con al menos 72 horas de anticipación a la fecha de la audiencia pública o el taller en cuestión.

Solicitar interpretación a otro idioma y otras adaptaciones.

7. ¿CÓMO PUEDO PARTICIPAR?

Se invita a todos los miembros del público a compartir su punto de vista sobre la restructuración de los distritos de supervisión del Condado en cualquiera de las audiencias públicas o los talleres. En cada uno de los cinco distritos de supervisión se realizarán talleres sobre la restructuración distrital. El objetivo de estas reuniones es que el Condado reciba la opinión del público en general sobre el proceso de restructuración distrital. Consulte las fechas de las audiencias públicas y los talleres en la página Calendario y Eventos de Restructuración Distrital.

Obtenga más información sobre las oportunidades que el público tiene para brindar su opinión sobre la restructuración distrital.

8. ¿PUEDO PRESENTAR MI PROPIO BORRADOR DE MAPA?

El Condado realizará tanto audiencias públicas como talleres para recibir la opinión pública sobre cómo deben trazarse las líneas de los distritos de supervisión. Puede hallar el programa de audiencias públicas y talleres en la página Calendario y Eventos de Restructuración Distrital.

El público puede presentar sus propios planos de restructuración distrital propuestos o borradores de mapas directamente al Condado. La opinión del público ayudará al Condado a desarrollar sus planos de restructuración distrital.

Obtenga más información sobre cómo presentar su idea de mapa.

9. ¿NECESITO ENVIAR UN MAPA COMPLETO?

No, puede trazar los límites de cualquier parte del Condado o solo del distrito en el que le gustaría que su vecindario quedara incluido como parte de un distrito de supervisión.

Obtenga más información sobre cómo presentar su idea de mapa.

10. ¿PUEDO PRESENTAR MÁS DE UN MAPA?: ¡Sí!

11. ¿QUÉ PASA CON LOS BORRADORES DE MAPAS ENVIADOS POR EL PÚBLICO?: Una vez recibidos, los mapas enviados por miembros del público se consideran registros públicos y se publicarán en el sitio web. Su información personal no se compartirá en el sitio web.

12. ¿QUÉ SON LAS COMUNIDADES DE INTERÉS (COI)?

La ley estatal define "comunidad de interés" como "una población que comparte intereses sociales, económicos, geográficos o culturales que debe incluirse en un solo distrito de supervisión para fines de su representación justa y eficaz. Las comunidades de interés no incluyen relaciones con partidos políticos, políticos en funciones ni candidatos políticos".

Uno de los lineamientos para trazar los límites distritales es conocer a las comunidades de interés de todo el Condado y, en la medida que resulte posible, tratar que las comunidades de interés permanezcan juntas en un distrito.

Obtenga mayor información sobre las Comunidades de Interés.

13. ¿CÓMO PUEDO ENVIAR UNA COMUNIDAD DE INTERÉS PARA SU CONSIDERACIÓN?

Para notificar al Condado sobre las comunidades de interés potenciales que deben considerarse en el proceso de restructuración distrital, usted puede:

Enviar una comunidad de interés usando nuestra aplicación de mapeo en línea.
Enviar un formulario de Comunidad de Interés (COI, por sus siglas en inglés)
Enviarnos un correo electrónico a [email protected]
Enviar sus comentarios o formulario de COI por correo postal a:
- Clerk of the Board, attn: Jami Morritt
  Contra Costa County
  1025 Escobar Street, 1^st Floor
  Martinez, CA 94553

14. ¿CÓMO PUEDO CONTACTAR AL CONTADO CON RESPECTO A LA RESTRUCTURACIÓN DISTRITAL?

Suscríbase para recibir actualizaciones por correo electrónico

Envíe sus comentarios a través de la Herramienta de Mapeo en Línea.

Use nuestra sencilla herramienta de mapeo en línea para:

Envíe sus comentarios usando el envío de formularios en línea.

Envíe sus comentarios por correo electrónico.

Envíe sus comentarios por correo electrónico al Secretario del Consejo.

¿Tiene más preguntas?

Puede contactar al Secretario del Consejo por correo electrónico para conocer más sobre cómo funciona el proceso o si tiene otras preguntas.

Preguntas de los medios de comunicación

Contacte a nuestra Oficina de Comunicación y Medios por correo electrónico or at 925-313-1180.

15. ¿QUÉ SIGNIFICAN LAS SIGLAS Y LAS CATEGORÍAS DE LAS HOJAS DEMOGRÁFICAS?

Estas son las categorías estándar incluidas en el Censo. No todas las categoría tienen relevancia para la creación de los mapas distritales. Entre las siglas se incluyen:

NH: No hispano
VAP: Población en edad de votar
CVAP: Población de ciudadanos en edad de votar
CVRA: Ley de Derechos de Voto de California

16. ¿DÓNDE PUEDO OBTENER MÁS INFORMACIÓN SOBRE LA RESTRUCTURACIÓN DISTRITAL EN GENERAL?: Existen en línea varias publicaciones y guías sobre la restructuración distrital. Visite nuestra lista de Recursos de Restructuración Distrital.

17. ¿QUÉ PASA SI NO HABLO INGLÉS?

El Condado está proporcionando cierta información sobre la restructuración distrital en español y chino (simplificado).

Preguntas frecuentes – Español
Preguntas frecuentes - Chino (simpificado)
Volante de Restructuración Distrital - Español (PDF)
Volante de Restructuración Distrital - Chino (simpificado) [PDF]

If language or other accommodations are needed for a public hearing or workshop, please contact County Clerk of the Board at least 72 hours in advance of each of the scheduled Public Hearings or Workshops.

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Secured Property Tax E-Billing

Show All Answers

1. What is an e-Billing?: E-billing is an electronic billing process using an email notification to provide you a link to a pdf copy of your tax bill online. The process replaces the paper bill you currently receive in the U.S. mail.

2. What are the advantages of receiving an e-Bill?: By signing up today, you can enjoy the following benefits:
• Receive an email when your bills are ready to view.
• Download and print your billing information at your convenience.
• Use our secure website. View the same billing information that you would receive in the mail.
• Receive the tax bill sooner and avoid mail delays.
• Help the environment by saving paper and reducing waste.
• Link directly to online payment options.

3. How can I sign-up for e-Billing?: To sign up to receive e-Bills, click HERE, or go to our website www.cctax.us >> Tax Info >> E-Billing of Taxes (Under Payment Assistance) >> SIGN UP.

4. Do I have to pay a fee for e-Billing?: No! With paperless billing there is no sign-up, transaction or service fees charged by the County.

5. If I enroll in e-Billing, will I continue to receive a paper bill in the mail?: When you enroll in e-Billing, the County will send you a paper Secured Tax bill in the mail one last time during the following regular September mailing. Your paper bill will have a special message stating you signed up for e-Billing. In the years following you will receive an e-mail when your Secured Tax bills are available to view online. You can then log on to www.cctax.us to view your bill

6. I just signed up for e-billing, what happens next?: You will receive an e-mail confirmation regarding your new e-billing account and the parcel number(s) you wish to have included in your e-notifications. You will need to respond to this e-mail confirmation within 72 hours to activate your new account. Otherwise, your account will automatically be cancelled. Once you have confirmed and activated your account, you will receive an e-notification in September each year when the new Secured Tax bill is available to view online, plus an e-mail reminder approximately two weeks before each delinquent date to check the payment status on your tax bill online.

7. How do I know that I have an e-Bill to pay?: Once you sign up for e-Billing, you will be notified via email when your next bill is available for review online.

8. I keep records of my paper bills. Can I save copies of my e-Bill?: The online account service will retain five years of e-Bills in its records. To keep a longer history, you must print the e-Bill for your own personal records or save a PDF copy to your hard drive. In addition, the online account service will retain payment schedules, transaction history, and other information.

9. Can I still pay my bill by mail if I receive an electronic bill?: Yes, e-Bill customers may pay their bills through the mail. Customers may print out their bill and send payment via check to the address provided on the bill.

10. Are there other payment options for paying my e-Bill?: Yes, e-Bill subscribers may pay their bill with a credit or debit card, or e-check.

11. My e-mail address has changed. How do I redirect my Secured Tax e-notifications to my new address?: • Log into your e-billing account
• Select Update Personal & Security Information
• Enter new e-mail address twice
• Select Update to accept changes to Personal & Security Information

12. I have forgotten my user name and/or password. What should I do?: Click the Forgotten Password link on the log-in page, then enter the e-mail address listed on the account and answer the security questions correctly. You will receive an e-mail notice with the forgotten password.

13. Can I switch back to paper bills in the future?: Yes, you may discontinue receiving e-Bills at any time. To discontinue receiving an e-Bill, follow these directions:
• Log-in to your account online at www.cctax.us .
• Remove the Parcel Number(s) from the APN Listing Page.
• Click Update and then Submit, and you will no longer receive an e-Bill for the removed APN(s). In September of the following tax year you will resume receiving your tax bill in paper form.

14. Do I have to sign up for e-billing to access my account information online or to pay my bill online?: No. E-Billing is not a requirement to access property tax information on our website. You may access your tax account any time by clicking on the icon Tax Info on our homepage.

15. I am on e-billing, but I didn’t receive an e-mail telling me my bill is ready. Why not?: There are several reasons why this could happen. Make sure that you are not blocking e-mail from the County and that your inbox is not full. Also verify that the e-mail address on your account is correct. Finally, if there has been a name change in ownership since the parcel number was added to the APN Listing Page of your e-billing account, this parcel number will automatically be removed and will need to be re-added if you want to continue including it in your e-notification. Remember, you can always review your e-Bill at www.cctax.us.

16. Can I have notifications sent to multiple e-mail addresses?: Yes, you can have the notification sent to two e-mail addresses, the primary and the alternative. Some taxpayers use this to send a notification to their work and home e-mail accounts.

17. I didn’t sign up for e-billing, but I received notice on my tax bill that I did. Why?: Someone may have added your parcel number on to their e-billing account by mistake. If you feel this was done in error, please email your request to [email protected] to have the parcel number removed from the e-billing account.

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Secured Property Taxes

Show All Answers

1. As a new owner, what do I need to know?

As a new owner, you are responsible for any taxes that were not paid as of the time escrow closed. Even though taxes are prorated between the buyer and seller during escrow and proper credit is given to each, the actual taxes may not have been paid to the Tax Collector by that time. You should read your escrow papers and/or title report to determine if any portion of the annual taxes were paid by the previous owner before the close of escrow.

Annual tax bills, which can be paid in two installments, are mailed once a year by the first of November. Since the bill contains payment stubs for both installments, this is the only bill regularly mailed each year by the Tax Collector. Depending on when the ownership change is placed on the tax roll, the annual tax bill could be sent either to the previous owner or directly to you. If there are any remaining unpaid taxes, and if you did not receive an annual tax bill from either the previous owner or the Tax Collector, you should contact the Tax Collector immediately and request one. It is your responsibility to obtain the bill. State law stipulates that failure to receive a bill does not permit the Tax Collector to excuse penalties on late payments.

In addition to annual taxes, you will probably be responsible for paying Supplemental Property Taxes. Any time property is sold or improved, the value of the property is reassessed. If the property has been reassessed at a higher value, you will receive one or more supplemental tax bills in addition to the annual bill mentioned above. (For more information on supplemental tax bills, please read our section on Supplemental Property Taxes.) If the property has been reassessed at a lower value, you will receive a refund.

2. What is a Secured tax bill?: The Secured tax bill is for taxes on the ad valorem (value based) of the real estate property being assessed and for special assessments charged against the property.
Proposition 8

3. Are there any exemption programs for Secured taxes?: Through the Assessor’s Office you can apply for the homeowner’s property tax exemption, veteran’s exemption, or church and welfare exemption. These programs allow for assessment exemptions that result in tax savings. For further information, contact the Assessor’s Office at (925) 313-7400.

4. Do I have recourse if I think the assessed value of my property is too high?: You may discuss the value with the Assessor if you feel a change is in order and request a review of your current assessed value versus the current market value (based on comparable sales). This process is commonly referred to as a Proposition 8 review.
Proposition 8

5. Do I have the right to appeal the Assessor's Secured assessed value?

Yes. You may take the matter up with the Assessor to see if that office will change the valuation. Additionally, the Board of Supervisors has established an Assessment Appeals Board for the purpose of resolving valuation problems in connection with Secured tax bills.

Applications for appeal must be filed within sixty days of the mailing date shown on the assessment notice. If you choose to appeal your assessment, you should still pay your tax installments in full by the appropriate deadlines; otherwise, you may incur penalties while the case is in appeals. If your appeal is granted, a refund will be issued to you.

Further information about the appeals process can be obtained by calling (925) 655-2008 or writing to: Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board, 1025 Escobar Street, 1st Floor, Martinez, CA 94553.

6. When are secured property tax bills mailed?: The secured property tax bills are usually mailed out in October of each year.

7. How do I change the mailing address on my tax bill?: Print and complete the Assessor’s Change of Address Form. Then sign and mail it to: Gus S. Kramer, Contra Costa County Assessor, Attn: Standards, 2530 Arnold Drive, Suite 100 Martinez, CA 94553-4359
Change of Address Form

8. What should I do if I don't receive a secured property tax bill?: A new property owner’s regular secured tax bill is sent to the previous owner because the Tax Collector’s Office is unaware the property has been sold. Regardless of the reason, if you do not receive a secured property tax bill by November 10th, contact this office at (925) 608-9500 or go on to our website to Pay Online to enter your Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) and view a pdf copy of the tax bill.

9. When are secured property taxes due?

Current secured tax bill:

1st installment is due November 1 and is delinquent after December 10
2nd installment payable by February 1 and delinquent after April 10
Both installments can be paid on or before December 10

Paying on time will avoid penalties!

If your bill says you have prior taxes owing, you should contact the Tax Collector’s Office at (925) 608-9500 to get the current amount due. Please note that these taxes are not included in the total amount due on the Secured bill, and additional penalty on the prior taxes accrues monthly at a rate of 18% per annum.

10. What is property tax postponement?: The State Controller’s Office (SCO) administers the Property Tax Postponement (PTP) Program, which allows eligible homeowners to postpone payment of current year property taxes on their primary residence. A postponement of property taxes is a deferment of current year property taxes that must eventually be repaid. Repayment is secured by a lien against the real property or a security agreement with the Department of Housing and Community Development for manufactured homes. Funding is limited and distributed on a first come, first served basis. Due to funding limitations, all who qualify may not be approved.
More Information PTP Program...

11. What happens if I don't pay my taxes on time?

If you do not pay the first installment of your annual tax bill at the Tax Collector’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on December 10 (if December 10 falls on a weekend or holiday, taxes are not delinquent until 5:00 p.m. the next business day), or payment is not U.S.P.S. postmarked by that time and date, then the taxes become delinquent and a 10% delinquent penalty is added to any unpaid balance.

If you do not pay the second installment at the Tax Collector’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on April 10 (if April 10 falls on a weekend or holiday, taxes are not delinquent until 5:00 p.m. the next business day.), or payment is not U.S.P.S. postmarked by that time and date, it becomes delinquent and a 10% penalty plus an administrative charge of $20.00 is added to the unpaid balance.

If you do not pay the installments of your supplemental tax bill by the applicable delinquency dates, the same penalties accrue as for delinquent annual taxes.

If you do not pay either or both installments at the Tax Collector’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on June 30 (if June 30 falls on a weekend or holiday, taxes must be paid by 5:00 p.m. on the preceding business day), or payment is not U.S.P.S. postmarked by that time and date, then the property becomes tax-defaulted and additional penalties and costs accrue.

Once the property has become tax defaulted, a redemption fee of $15 and additional penalties begin to accrue at the rate of 1 1/2% per month of the unpaid taxes. This monthly penalty is added at 5:00 p.m. on the last day of each month (or the following business day if the last day of the month falls on a weekend or holiday).

The amount needed to redeem tax-defaulted property in full is the sum of the following:

The total amount of unpaid taxes for all delinquent years.
A 10% penalty on every unpaid installment.
A $20 administrative charge for each delinquent year.
Monthly penalties of 1 1/2% of the unpaid taxes accrued date.
A redemption fee of $15.

12. Can I pay less than the amount due?

NO. Our office does NOT accept partial payments for current tax bills. Any payment less than the amount due at the time of receipt will be returned to the payer.

Please be aware that a 10% late-payment penalty will be assessed on the unpaid balance on the first installment. The penalty will also attach to the unpaid portion of the second installment plus a $20 cost.

13. Is my lender paying this bill?

Do you have an impound account with your lender? If so, you should receive a tax bill in your name with the word "INFORMATION COPY" appearing on the top right-hand corner of the front of the form.

If not, call your lender immediately to find out! If you have refinanced your house since the original billing and either your new lender or you is responsible for paying the bill, you must notify our office immediately of the change and request another bill be sent. The bill must still be paid in full by the due date regardless of the circumstance.

14. What are Special Assessments?

Special assessments are a charge on a tax bill for a service or benefit provided directly to a property. They are collected at the same time and in the same manner property taxes are collected.

Examples of these types of assessments are garbage collection, sewer, lights and landscaping maintenance, mosquito abatement, fire protection, water, sanitation and other such services.

A special district is formed in order to provide property specific services or benefits. These districts are permitted to charge an assessment for the services rendered under the applicable state law that allowed their creation. In accordance with state law, each fiscal year the special district provides the county Auditor-Controller with a listing of the parcels and the amounts to be charged to each parcel on the property tax roll. The district also provides the Auditor-Controller with a resolution authorizing the placement of the charge on specific parcels. Provided the legal requirements are met by special district, the county Auditor must place the special assessment charge on a property tax bill.

15. What is a Supplemental tax bill?

State law requires the immediate reassessment of property (for tax purposes) whenever a change of ownership or completion of construction occurs. If applicable, you will receive a supplemental tax bill reflecting the change in value for the balance of the tax year. Due dates for a supplemental tax bill depends on when the bill is mailed.

A decrease in value will result in a negative supplemental tax bill being issued. These negative bills or refunds do not cause a change to your current annual tax bill which must be paid timely to avoid penalty.

Supplemental tax bills do not replace the regular tax bill. Supplemental tax bills are not mailed to your mortgage company. They are not paid by funds in your impound account. If you receive a supplemental tax bill and have any questions about payment responsibility, please contact your mortgage company.

16. Who may apply for the Installment Plan of Redemption?: Any taxpayer may apply for Installment Plan for Redemption taxes as long the property in question has been in tax-default for less than five years.

17. Is an installment plan available to pay my delinquent taxes?

Yes, but not until the delinquent or "defaulted" taxes have been transferred to the Redemption roll, which occurs approximately mid-July following the fiscal year in which the taxes were due.

An Redemption Installment Plan allows a taxpayer the ability to pay Redemption taxes in multiple installments. It is strongly recommended that prior to applying for the Redemption Installment Plan, you contact your lender/mortgage company to ensure they allow a Tax Collector’s payment plan to pay the defaulted taxes. Please be aware that an Redemption Installment Plan cannot be started (or restarted) after the property becomes Subject To Power To Sell. This occurs when the property has been on Redemption roll for more than five years.

To start an installment plan, you must:

Pay ALL current year taxes that are due (or past-due); and
Make an initial payment of at least 20% of the Redemption amount.

To maintain the installment plan in good standing, you must:

Pay a sum of 20% or more of Principal plus interest (18% APR) each year by April 10; and
Pay all future annual Secured (and any Supplemental) taxes by April 10 of the year in which they are due.

Failure to make the required minimum payment and/or to pay the annual Secured taxes or any supplemental taxes that are due on or before April 10 of each year will result in a termination of the Redemption Installment Plan. Another Plan may be started only after the beginning of the next fiscal year as long as the property has not been in tax-default for more than five years.

NOTE: You may pay the total unpaid balance plus accrued interest any time before final payment is due. If you wish detailed information about a Redemption Installment Plan, contact the Tax Collector’s Office at (925) 608-9500, or click HERE.

18. Is there a fee to apply for the installment plan?: No, currently there is no fee for applying.

19. Does interest continue to accrue while participating in the installment plan?: Yes. Interest continues to accrue at a rate 1.5% per month (18% APR) on the unpaid balance.

20. What happens if I do not keep my plan current or up to date?

If the installment plan defaults, a new plan may not be started until July 1 of the following fiscal year. Additional penalties at an annual rate of 18% will continue to be computed on the unpaid balance each time a plan is restarted. Please be aware that an Redemption Installment Plan cannot be started after the property becomes Subject To Power To Sell. This occurs when the property has been delinquent for more than five years.

Example: If you have delinquent taxes from the 1997-98 tax year, as of July 1, 2003, you CANNOT participate in the installment plan. You must pay in full the amount of outstanding taxes to keep the property from being sold at the Public Auction that is scheduled for early 2004.

21. If I don't pay my taxes, when would you sell my house?

Five years after the first year of nonpayment, your property becomes Subject to Power to Sell and may be offered at the next scheduled annual public auction.

Don’t panic! Prior to the end of the fifth year of default, we may have options available for you to bring your taxes current. Give us a call at (925) 608-9500 or e-mail us at [email protected].

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Sheriffs Office

Show All Answers

1. How do I go about getting a copy of my crime report? What does it cost?: We accept requests by mail, walk-in, fax, and e-mail. Records staff will contact you by telephone, e-mail, fax or United States mail to advise you of the fees for this service. Requests will not be mailed unless all fees have been paid in advance. Your request for information is normally processed and mailed within 10 business days.

2. My child is under 18 years old and was involved in a crime. How can I obtain a copy of the crime report?: Contra Costa County law enforcement agencies cannot directly release information pertaining to a juvenile involved in a crime. The Judge of the Juvenile Court will review your request and the crime report. Once the Judge’s decision is made, records staff will mail the crime report or the decision not to release as prescribed by the judge. Requests will not be processed unless fees have been paid in advance.

3. How does my restraining order get recorded?: At the end of each court day, Monday through Friday, at 5:00 p.m. all restraining order documents executed that business day in Contra Costa County are delivered to the Records Unit and records staff make the required entries into the Domestic Violence Restraining Order System of the State.

4. How can I find out if I have a warrant for my arrest?: We do not provide warrant information to the public. Contact the court of jurisdiction, or your local law enforcement agency.

5. How do I find out if someone is in custody?: Sheriff’s Custody Services Bureau handles all in-custody inmate information. They can be reached at (925) 646-4496, 24 hours a day seven days per week.

6. How can I find out about my arrest record after I have been released?: The Records Unit will accept your request for out-of-custody arrest information by mail, walk-in, or e-mail request. Only the subject of the arrest record may obtain a copy of their arrest unless they authorize someone else to obtain the copy. The request must be in writing from the arrested person and his/her signature verified, attach a photocopy of CDL, ID card, etc. The authorized person must also provide picture identification at the time of request / release. This does not pertain to the crime report. Contact our office to learn how and when these documents can be obtained.

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Stormwater Discharge Compliance.

Show All Answers

1. What is Senate Bill 205 about?

Under the existing law, the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) and the California Regional Water Quality Control Boards (Regional Boards) prescribe waste discharge requirements for the discharge of stormwater by municipalities and industries in accordance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program and the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. The existing law requires regulated municipalities and industries to obtain a stormwater permit.

SB 205 would require a person or entity who conducts a business operation that is a regulated industry to demonstrate enrollment with the NPDES permit program by providing specified information, under penalty of perjury, on their application when applying to a city or a county for an initial business license or business license renewal.

2. What is the purpose of SB 205?: To address the health and safety of drinking water sources statewide, the regulated industry is required to provide proof of enrollment with the NPDES permit program.

3. When was SB 205 signed into law?: SB 205 was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on October 2, 2019. It takes effect January 1, 2020.

4. Where can I find the full text and additional information about the law?

Visit http://leqinfo.legislature.ca.qov

Search Bill Number: "SB 205"

5. What does SB 205 require?: SB 205 requires specific types of businesses to demonstrate they have a stormwater permit when applying for an initial business license or when renewing its business license with the city or county of jurisdiction.

6. Does SB 205 impact all businesses?: No. Only those businesses with primary Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes that are identified in or are applicable to the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities (Excluding Construction Activities), also known as Stormwater Industrial General Permit.

7. What SIC codes are impacted by SB 205?

The State Water Board maintains an electronic list of regulated SIC codes:
- Alphabetical:
  https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/sic.html
- Numeric:
  https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/sicnum.html
Attachment A of the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated With Industrial Activities (or Stormwater Industrial General Permit) identifies nine categories of facilities subject to enrollment under the Stormwater Industrial General Permit, including the following:
- Feedlots of a specific size (SICs 0211-0272);
- Manufacturing Facilities (SICs 20XX-39XX and 4221-4225);
- Oil and Gas/Mining Facilities (SICs 10XX-14XX);
- Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage, or Disposal Facilities (often SIC 4953);
- Landfills, Land Application Sites, and Open Dumps (SIC 4953);
- Recycling Facilities (SICs 5015 and 5093);
- Steam Electric Power Generating Facilities (specific activities under SIC 4911);
- Transportation Facilities (SICs 40XX through 45XX [except 4221-25] and 5171); and,
- Sewage or Wastewater Treatment Works (SIC 4952)
To access a copy of Attachment A, Stormwater Industrial General Permit, click on the following link:
- https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/docs/industrial/2014indgenpermit/atta.pdf

8. How do I find my SIC code to determine if I am impacted by SB 205?

Visit https: https://www.osha.gov/data/sic-search
- Search by keyword(s) (for example: metal recycling)
- Your insurance broker should also know your SIC code.

9. What if my business has more than one SIC code?: Establishments with one or more primary SIC codes that are regulated require stormwater permit coverage. See also Questions 2 and 3 above.

10. My business falls under the regulated SIC codes, and I have a stormwater permit... so, what's next?

When you apply for a business license renewal to a city or county, provide the name(s) and location(s) of the facilities operated by your business, all corresponding primary SIC codes, and one of the following:
- Stormwater permit number, known as the Waste Discharger Identification number (VVDID), issued for the facility by the State Water Board
- VVDID application number issued for the facility by the State Water Board
- Notice of Non-applicability (NONA) identification number issued for the facility by the State Water Board
- No Exposure Certification (NEC) identification number issued for the facility by the State Water Board

11. My business falls under the regulated SIC codes, and I DO NOT have a stormwater permit.. .so, what's next?

In order to complete your business license application or renewal, you need to enroll under the Stormwater Industrial General Permit and provide the city or county with your permit number as described in Question 6 above.
For guidance on how to apply for coverage under the Stormwater Industrial General Permit, contact the local Regional Board or the State Water Board. See links in Question 13 below.

12. What if the city or county I am located in does not issue a business license?

SB 205 only applies to cities and counties that issue business licenses.

Contact the State Water Board or local Regional Board to inquire about stormwater permit requirements or regulations, as you may still be required to enroll in the Stormwater Industrial General Permit based on your SIC code(s).

13. Are there resources to help me learn more information about permit coverage?

State Water Resources Control Board Industrial Storm Water Tool Box: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/toolbox.html

State Water Resources Control Board Storm Water Multiple Application and Report Tracking System (SMARTS) help guides: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/smarts/industrial/indst_help_guides.html

The California Storm Water Quality Association (https://www.casqa.org/) and Metals Industry Storm Water Group (https://www.stormwatergroup.org/) are good resources.

14. How do I apply for coverage under the Industrial General Stormwater Permit?

Contact the State Water Board to apply for a stormwater permit, or visit the State Water Board: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/waterboards_map.html

Toll Free: 1-(866)-563-3107

State and Regional Stormwater contacts: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/contact.html

Types of Stormwater Industrial Permit Coverage: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/docs/industrial/types_of_coverages.pdf

Contact the local Regional Board or visit their website for contact information: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/contact.html

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Supplemental Taxes

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1. What is a supplemental tax bill?

The supplemental bill is for taxes on the increase in assessed value, prorated from the date of change in ownership or date of completion of construction to the end of the Fiscal Year. It is in addition to the original secured tax bill for your property. It does not replace the original bill. This bill is sent directly to the homeowner and NOT to the mortgage company.

On July 1, 1983, California State law was changed to require the reassessment of property as of the first day of the month following an ownership change or the completion of new construction. What is meant by new construction is any substantial addition to real property (e.g., adding a new room, pool, or garage) or any substantial alteration which restores a building, room, or other improvement to the equivalent of new (e.g., completely renovating an outdated kitchen). In most cases, this reassessment results in one or more supplemental tax bills being sent to the property owner in addition to the annual property tax bill.

Most changes in ownership caused by the sale of property result in reassessment. However, interspousal transfers, the transfer, sale, or inheritance of property between parents and their children, and the addition of joint tenants do not result in the reappraisal of property values.

Furthermore, homeowners over the age of 55 years who sell their principal residence and purchase a replacement dwelling within two years that is of equal or lesser market value and is located in the same county are eligible to transfer the pre-sale assessed value of their original property to the replacement dwelling. For further information, please contact the Assessor’s Office at (925) 313- 7400.

2. How is a Supplemental assessment done?

The Assessor first determines the new value of the property based on current market values. The Assessor then calculates the difference between the new value (set at the time of purchase or completion of new construction) and the old value (set on January 1 of the previous fiscal year). The result is the supplemental assessment value. Once the new assessed value of your property is determined, the Assessor will send you a notification of the amount to be assessed.

Example:

New value at date of purchase or completion of new construction $120,000
Assessed value for current fiscal year $100,000
Supplemental assessment value will be $20,000

This reassessment usually results in an increase in property value, in which case your supplemental taxes will be calculated by the Auditor-Controller based on the change in value, and one or more supplemental tax bills will be created and mailed to you by the Tax Collector. However, in some instances the reassessment results in a reduction in value, in which case a refund will be prepared by the Auditor-Controller and mailed to you. A reduction in value will not reduce the amount due on the annual secured tax bill. The annual tax bill must be paid in the amount originally billed.

The supplemental tax bill is usually sent directly to you. If you purchase and then sell property within a short period of time, the supplemental tax bill you receive should cover only those months during which you owned the property, and the new owner should receive a separate supplemental tax bill. However, because of the large number of parcels and frequency of property changing hands, there are often delays in placing new assessments on the roll. Be sure to check the dates used to prorate the bill to ensure that the period covered is the period during which you actually owned the property. If you think there’s an error in the pro-ration of your supplemental tax bill, please contact the AuditorController’s Office at (925) 646-2236.

3. Do I have the same right to appeal the Assessor's supplemental assessed value as I do the annual assessed value?

Further information about the appeals process can be obtained by calling (925) 335-1901 or writing to: Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board, 1st Floor, Suite 150, 1025 Escobar Street, Martinez, CA 94553

4. If I receive a supplemental tax bill, will I also receive an annual tax bill in the fall of each year?: Yes. The supplemental tax bill is sent in addition to the annual tax bill and both must be paid as specified on the bill. For information on the annual tax bill, see our section on Secured Property Taxes.

5. If I pay my property taxes through an impound account (i.e., with my mortgage payment), will my lender get my supplemental tax bill?: No. Unlike the annual tax bill, lending agencies do not receive a copy of the supplemental tax bill. When you receive a supplemental tax bill, you must contact your lender to determine who will pay the bill. Generally, your impound account will only cover your annual tax bill and not your supplemental bill.

6. What does the supplemental tax bill tell me?

The supplemental tax bill provides the following information:

The owner (or new owners as of the date of ownership change), the location of the property and last available mailing address.
The event date, the billing date and the Fiscal Year for which the taxes are assessed.
The Value Calculation, as determined by the County Assessor, showing a comparison of the revised value of the property as a result of your event to the value on the Secured Tax Roll. The difference between the two values is the basis of this supplemental tax billing.
The Tax Calculation box that includes a list of items for payment of voter approved indebtedness of the jurisdiction listed.
The net total amount of supplemental taxes due, to be paid in two separate installments along with the attached mail stubs. These stubs show the due date for each installment.

The bill may be paid in two installments and provides payment stubs for each installment, which show the amount due and the date that the amount must be paid to avoid penalties for late payment.

7. What if I purchase a piece of property and then sell it again after a few months?

If you purchase and then sell property within a short period of time, the supplemental tax bill you receive should cover only those months during which you owned the property, and the new owner should receive a separate supplemental tax bill.

Because of the large number of parcels and frequency of property changing hands in Contra Costa County, there are often delays in placing new assessments on the roll. Be sure to check the dates used to prorate the bill to ensure that the period covered is the period during which you actually owned the property. If you receive an incorrect tax bill, contact the Auditor – Controller’s Office at (925) 646-2236.

8. When I purchase property or complete construction at some point during the Fiscal Year, will I be taxed on the supplemental value for the entire Fiscal Year?

No. You are only taxed on the supplemental value for the portion of the current Fiscal Year remaining after you purchased the property or completed new construction.

NOTE: If you purchased the property or completed new construction between January 1 and May 31, you will receive an additional supplemental bill for the entire following fiscal year.

9. Is it possible to get more than one supplemental tax bill?: Yes. It is possible to receive several supplemental tax bills, depending on when the ownership change or completion of new construction occurred and when the Assessor recorded the new value on the tax roll. Because property is assessed each January 1 for the upcoming Fiscal Year (the period July 1 - June 30), you will receive one supplemental bill if the change in property value due to ownership change or new construction is recorded on the tax roll between June 1 and December 31; you will receive two supplemental bills if the change in property value is recorded on the tax roll between January 1 and May 31.

10. When do supplemental tax bills have to be paid?

The date on which supplemental bills become delinquent varies depending upon when they are mailed by the Tax Collector. If the bill is mailed between July 1 and October 30, the taxes become delinquent at 5 pm on December 10 for the first installment and 5 pm on April 10 for the second installment (the same delinquency schedule as for annual tax bills mailed in November).

If the bill is mailed between November 1 and June 30, the delinquency dates -- which are printed on the bill -- are determined as follows: The first installment is delinquent at 5 pm on the last day of the month following the month the bill was mailed; the second installment is delinquent at 5 pm on the last day of the fourth month after the first installment delinquency date.

Penalties of 10% are added to any installment that is not paid on time, and an additional $20 charge is added to a late second installment.

11. If payment of the supplemental tax bill is not made before the delinquency date because of a misunderstanding between my lender and myself, may I have the penalties excused?: No. State law stipulates that this is not an acceptable reason for excusing penalties.

12. What happens if I fail to pay my supplemental tax bill?: The same rules apply as for unpaid annual tax bills. If your supplemental tax bill is not paid by June 30, after the second installment becomes delinquent, the property becomes tax defaulted (even if you have paid your annual tax bill). At the end of the fifth year of delinquency the property becomes subject to the power of sale as described in our section on delinquent property taxes.

Delinquent Property Taxes

13. Can delinquent supplemental taxes be paid on an installment plan?: Yes. Delinquent supplemental taxes can be paid on an installment plan in the same manner as your annual property taxes once the taxes become delinquent. More information can be found in our section on delinquent property taxes.
Delinquent Property Taxes

14. Am I entitled to a homeowner's exemption on my supplemental tax bill?

You may very well be eligible for a homeowner’s exemption on your supplemental tax bill. Exemptions, however, are not granted automatically. You must apply to the Assessor before 30 days following the date of the notice from the Assessor of your supplemental assessment. As long as the home you purchased did not receive the homeowner’s exemption on the current year’s assessment, and as long as you occupy the home as your principal residence within 90 days of the purchase date, you would be allowed the full amount ($7,000) on the supplemental assessment. If your newly purchased home did receive the full homeowner’s exemption, however, you would not be able to receive the exemption on your supplemental assessment.

Example:

On May 29, 2003 you purchase a home on which no homeowner’s exemption had been allowed. Because you are reassessed on the first day of the month following an ownership change, in the current Fiscal Year you will pay supplemental taxes for the one remaining month. Your 2002-03 supplemental assessment amounts to $20,000. If you file for and qualify for a homeowner’s exemption, the entire $7,000 exemption amount would be deducted from the supplemental assessment BEFORE the taxes are calculated.

15. Are other exemptions and assistance programs available that will help defray the amount of supplemental taxes due?: Yes. Supplemental taxes are eligible for the same property tax exemptions and assistance programs as your annual taxes. In addition to the homeowner’s exemption, you can apply through the Assessor’s Office for a number of other assessment exemptions (e.g., veteran’s, church, and welfare) that result in savings. You must, however, file for all exemptions before 30 days following the date of the notice from the Assessor of your supplemental assessment. For further information, contact the Assessor’s Office at (925) 313-7481.

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Unsecured Property Taxes

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1. What is an unsecured property tax?: It is an ad-valorem (value based) property tax that is the liability of the person or entity assessed for the tax. Because the tax is not secured by real property (such as land) the tax is called "UNSECURED."

2. What type of property is assessed as an unsecured personal property tax bill?

All property that is not real property is considered personal property and therefore is issued an Unsecured tax bill. Some typical items assessed and collected on the unsecured roll are:

Boats
Airplanes
Improvements on the real estate of others
Business property
Most possessory interests
Escape and supplemental assessments
against former owners of real property
Some fixtures

The lien for unsecured taxes is against the assessee and not against the property. The assessee can be any person owning, claiming, possessing, or controlling the property on the lien date.

3. When is the Unsecured Tax assessed?: The Assessor establishes the value of the unsecured property on January 1. This date is often referred to as the Tax Lien date. Ownership on the lien date, determines the obligation to pay taxes: Disposal, removal, or sale of the object of the assessment after the lien date will not affect the tax bill nor relieve the assessee of liability. No proration is made by the Tax Collector on unsecured taxes. Any proration is strictly a private matter between buyer and seller.

4. What is the lien date?: It is the date when the liability fixes to the assessee. The lien date is January 1.

5. What if I no longer own the property?

The tax bill will be issued to the owner as of the lien date January 1. Disposal, removal, or sale of the assets after the lien date will not affect the tax bill. No prorations are made by the tax collector on unsecured property taxes. Any pro-ration is strictly a private matter between buyer and seller. The owner of record as of January 1 is responsible for payment and will be lien if bill is not paid.

You should also contact the Assessor’s Office to make sure the ownership of record has been updated. Failure to do so could result in future billings and liens.

6. How are Unsecured Tax Amounts determined?: The January 1 value is multiplied by the tax rate (usually 1% plus voter approved indebtedness). The unsecured tax rate is the prior year secured rate.

7. What period of time does an Unsecured tax bill cover?: An unsecured tax bill covers a fiscal year. The fiscal year begins July 1 and ends on June 30 of the following calendar year.

8. What is the fiscal year?

A fiscal year is the County’s accounting cycle. It is from July 1 each year through June 30 the following year.

Example: 1999-00 fiscal year is July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.

9. How are Unsecured taxes issued?: The County Assessor determines the person or entity to be assessed and the value of the property being assessed. The Auditor places a record on the roll for the Tax Collector to collect. The Tax Collector mails the tax bill to the latest billable address the Assessor has on file from the assesee.

10. When should I expect my Unsecured tax bill?: Most unsecured bills are mailed July 31. These bills must be paid on or before 5 p.m. on August 31. If the bill is mailed after July 31, the delinquent date is extended to the end of the month following the bill’s issuance. In other words, if your bill is mailed in September, the delinquent date would be October 31.

11. What should I do if I don't receive a tax bill?: If you do not receive a tax bill by July 10, contact the Treasurer - Collector's Office at (925) 608-9500.

12. When are unsecured property taxes due?

Most unsecured bills are mailed before July 31st. These bills must be paid on or before August 31st. If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday or a legal holiday, the deadline is extended until the next business day.

If the bill is mailed after July 31st, the delinquent date is extended to the end of the month following the bill’s issuance. For example, if your bill were mailed in September, the delinquent date would be October 31st. If your payment is not received or postmarked by the delinquent date, a 10% penalty and a $30.00 collection fee are added to your bill.

If your bill remains unpaid for two additional months, a monthly penalty of 1.5% begins to accrue (an 18% per annum rate). In addition, if a Certificate of Tax Lien is recorded, an additional fee of $20.00 will be required to release the lien.

Generally, an annual unsecured tax bill is mailed out by June 30th each year. If you do not receive a tax bill by July 10th, contact the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office immediately. Call (925) 608-9500.

FAILURE TO RECEIVE A TAX BILL DOES NOT RELIEVE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR PAYMENT, NOR CONSTITUTES CAUSE FOR CANCELLATION OF PENALTY IF THE TAX BECOMES DELINQUENT.

NOTE: The penalty of 10% shown on the stub of your bill is not applied until the delinquency date. Do not include the penalty if payment is made on or before that date.

13. What if I don't pay my tax bill prior to delinquency?

A tax penalty of 10% plus a $30 administrative fee will be charged on the date of the delinquency. Additional penalties at the rate of 1.5 % per month will be charged starting the 1st day of the second month after the delinquency date until the tax is paid in full.

Upon delinquency the following collection methods may be used to collect the tax:

Liens
Summary Judgments
Legal Actions
Seizure and sale of personal property

14. What happens after I pay a delinquency, on which a lien has been placed?: After full payment of defaulted taxes against which a certificate of lien has been recorded, an Unrecorded Release of Lien notice will be mailed to the owner. It is the owner’s responsibility to have the Release of Lien recorded at each Recorder’s Office at which the lien was filed and pay all related fees. Instructions will be included with the Release of Lien.

15. Where do I mail my tax payment?: Send payment to the address shown on the front of your coupon. If you do not have a tax coupon, then mail payment to:
Contra Costa County
Treasurer and Tax Collector
Attn: Unsecured Tax Division
P.O Box 631
Martinez, CA 94553.

16. Can payments be postmarked on the deadline?: Yes. U.S.P.S. postmark dates are honored as if the payment were received in the office as of the date of the postmark.

17. Is a private postage meter date the same as the United States Postal Service postmark?: No. California law requires the Tax Collector to accept the US postmark, not a private meter date, as the date of payment.

18. May taxes be paid with a credit or debit card?: Yes. For a 3rd-party processing fee you can pay with your credit or debit card Unsecured property taxes either in person at our Cashier counter or on our website at www.cctax.us. You can also make an electronic check payment online at no service charge.

19. If I sell my Unsecured property before the fiscal year, am I still responsible for the Unsecured taxes?: Yes. Disposal of the property after the January 1 lien date does not eliminate your tax liability. If you sell the property before the unsecured tax bill is issued, make sure you collect an estimated amount for the unsecured tax from the buyer.

20. What if I disagree with the tax bill?

If the assessee name or the property being assessed is incorrect, contact the Assessor’s Office immediately at (925) 313-7600.

If the value of the property is incorrect, contact the Assessor or if between July 2 and November 30 contact the Assessment Appeals Board. In the meantime, you must still pay the taxes by the due date in order to avoid penalties, liens and enforced collections. Should the taxes be reduced later, a refund will be issued.

Information about the appeals process can be obtained by calling (925) 335-1920 or writing to the Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board, Suite 150, 1025 Escobar Street, 1st Floor, Martinez, CA 94553

If the tax rate is incorrect, contact the Auditor’s Office, Property Tax Division, at (925) 646-2236.

For delinquency date or payment information, contact the Tax Collector at (925) 608-9500.

21. Do I need to pay the tax bill while appealing or talking with the Assessor about a reduction in the value assessed?: Yes. To avoid penalties, liens or enforced collections, the tax must be paid prior to it becoming delinquent. Should the tax be reduced later, a refund will be issued.

22. What if my check is dishonored by the bank?: If your check is dishonored by the bank, and $85 fee is added to the tax bill and any applicable penalties will be applied retroactively.

23. What is Unsecured Tax Four Plan?

Escape bills in excess of $500 may be eligible to be paid on a FOUR-YEAR PAYMENT PLAN. The payments are payable over a four-year period as per California Revenue and Taxation Code.

To enroll a bill on the Four Year Plan, you must:

File a written request with the Tax Collector’s office prior to the due date of the bill.
Pay at least 20% of the tax, no later than the due date.

24. If I don't pay my Unsecured tax bill, is there any action the Tax Collector can take?

Yes. The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office may enforce the collection of unsecured property taxes at any time subsequent to the entry of the tax lien on the assessment roll. Upon delinquency the following collection methods may be used to collect the tax: bank liens, summary judgments and legal actions.

Delinquent unsecured taxes may also be collected by seizure and sale of any of the following property belonging or assessed to the assessee (Sec. 2951 R&T Code):

Personal Property
Improvements
Possessory Interests

In addition to penalties imposed, the Tax Collector may collect actual costs of collection incurred by the County up to the time the delinquency is paid.

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Veterans Service Office

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1. I have a VA Service Connected Disability rating. Can I go to the VA to be reevaluated and receive care for my Service Connected Health conditions?: Yes you can!
You can go to the VA Martinez Outpatient Clinic (150 Muir Rd.) to receive care for your service connected conditions. You'll need to enroll for care if you haven't already done so. You'll need your DD-214 and a copy of your VA rating letter. If you want to have your conditions reevaluated, you'll need to file a new claim with new evidence showing that your service connected conditions have become worse. This is something that we do all the time. You can file a new claim through our office. Gather up any treatment documentation you can get your hands on and and we'll get a claim started.

2. What does your Veterans Service office do to help Veterans?: We Do all of the following:
We assist veterans and their dependents in filing for VA benefits that would be appropriate. These include, but may not be limited to, Service-connected Disability Compensation; Non-Service-connected Disability Pension; Educational Benefits for the Veteran as well as Family Members if they meet eligibility; Burial Benefits for the Veteran; Survivors DIC if the military member died in the service or of Service Connected Disabilities; and Death Pension, provided veteran served during wartime; provide benefits verifications and information which can be used for establishing social services assistance; obtain Military Discharge papers.

3. I'm a veteran, can I get dental work at the VA?: Yes you can!
VA Mare Island clinic provides necessary dental care for veterans who were not provided dental examination and treatment within 180 days of discharge and apply within 180 days of separation from the service. The time limit does not apply to veterans with dental disabilities resulting from combat wounds or service injuries. If a Veteran is 100% service connected, the Veteran can receive dental care from the VA.
If you are enrolled in the VA for healthcare, you may be eligible to apply for dental coverage through the VA Dental Insurance Program. This is a 3 year pilot project offering dental coverage plans through Delta Dental and Metlife. To apply, visit VA benefits webpage

4. I believe that I have an Agent Orange related disease. Can I received Compensation for my condition?: Yes you can!
The VA has linked several diseases to exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam. Some examples are Diabetes Type 2, Ischemic Heart Disease, and Prostate Cancer, but please see our Agent Orange fact sheet for a complete list. Currently, if you served in country in Vietnam between 9 January 1962 and 5 May 1975, whether you knew it or not, you were exposed to Agent Orange. Currently, there are three sites that have been recognized by VA for Agent Orange exposure (1) Vietnam, (2) Korea along the DMZ, (3) and Guam at Anderson Air Base. If you think you qualify contact this office.

5. I've heard about VA assistance with college for my kids. Is there such a program?: Yes there is, there are two programs!
The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CDVA) assists low income children of veterans who are presently rated 0% or higher for a Service Connected Disability, or children of military personnel killed while on Active Duty, or who have died of service connected disabilities. The Tuition Fee Waiver Program may waive all of the tuition at a public university (including community colleges) in California. An application (DVS-40) is available by contacting this office.
The other program is called Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA) under Chapter 35. This is a monthly monetary benefit available to dependent children of a Veteran who has a Service Connected Disability rated at 100%. There are age restrictions. Please contact our office, if you believe that you are eligible.

6. When I die, what benefits can my spouse apply for?: If your death is attributable to a Service-connected cause, your surviving spouse may apply for Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (DIC), which is a monthly payment compensating your spouse for your loss. Another potential benefit, the Non-service Connected Disability Pension, is payable if you served during one of the Wartime Periods (such as WWII, Korea, etc.) and your surviving spouse’s monthly income falls below a certain amount established by the VA. A burial benefit may be paid to a surviving spouse if at the time of your death you are in receipt of a Service-connected Disability Compensation Award; or if as the veteran, you were receiving a Non-service-connected Disability Pension, or your death occurs while you are in a VA Medical Facility.

7. I cannot find my military discharge papers (DD-214) or Record of Separation from the Military. Can you help me obtain a replacement copy? And how long must I wait?: Yes we can!
We can assist you in completing the necessary form (SF-180) to be sent off to the National Archives. You will usually receive a replacement copy of your papers in one to three months.

▼
Weatherizing Your Home - Conservation & Development

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1. What does the Weatherization program do?: The Weatherization Program offers home improvements that will hopefully reduce your monthly energy costs which includes anything from caulking, weather-stripping doors, repair or replacement of gas water heaters, stoves and/or refrigerators.
Link to Weatherization Program

2. What will the Weatherization program cost me?: The Weatherization program will cost you nothing. If anything is repaired or replaced, it is done at no cost to either the homeowner or tenant.

3. What parts of Contra Costa County are eligible for this program?: This program is available to all parts of the Contra Costa County.

4. How do I qualify for this program?: Qualification for this program is based on the gross monthly income for the home.
Income Guidelines for Eligibility

5. How do I get an application?: Call 925-655-7214 to get an application. In order for us to serve you better, please speak slowly and clearly, spelling your name and street name when requesting an application. You can also stop by our office to pick up an application at 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553.

6. What documentation is required to complete an application?: Documentation must be current (within the last 6 weeks). Please only send copies. •A current PG&E bill showing your name, address and days of usage. We do not accept 15 day or 48 hour notices. •Proof of gross income for the one full month and current to within six weeks •Proof of Citizenship - One of the following documents: birth certificate, statement from Social Security regarding place of birth, passport, or discharge papers from military service.

7. Who does the testing and/or work in my home?: All testing or measures installed are done by either a licensed contractor or a certified “Weatherization Specialist”.

8. Can my landlord raise my rent because of these improvements?: All landlords/property managers must sign an agreement stating that they will not raise your rent based on these improvements before the work can begin. If you have more questions or concerns, call us at 925-655-7214.

9. I need assistance paying my PG&E bill. Can you help me?: Weatherization does not assist with payments to PG&E. The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) program does. For assistance, please contact the HEAP office by calling their toll free number: 925-681-6380.
PG & E Payment Assistance web page

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▼ Sheriffs Office

▼ Stormwater Discharge Compliance.

▼ Supplemental Taxes

▼ Unsecured Property Taxes

Contra Costa CountyTreasurer and Tax Collector

Attn: Unsecured Tax Division

P.O Box 631Martinez, CA 94553.

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Agriculture, Weights and Measures Pest Detection FAQ

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Airport

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All-Electric Building Ordinance

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All-Electric Building Ordinance for Developers

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Animal Services

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Annual Public Auction Tax Sale

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Assessment Appeals

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Assessor's Office

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Board of Supervisors District III

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Building Permit Processing - Conservation & Development

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Business License Tax

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Cable TV and CCTV, Office of Communications and Media

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Clerk of the Board

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Code Enforcement - Conservation & Development

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County Counsel

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County Surveyor

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Countywide Most Frequently Asked Questions

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Department of Conservation and Development -CEQA Notifications

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Department of Conservation and Development ePermits Center

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Equal Employment Opportunity Office

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Help With Taxes - Tax Collector

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Human Resources

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Human Resources Employee Benefits

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Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP) - Home Rehabilitation Loans

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New Resident Information

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Olympic Corridor Trail Connector Study

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Planning & Land Use

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Probation

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Proposition 47

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Public Defender Employment

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Public Defender General

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PW - Can...I, Can you, etc.

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PW - Do I, Does the, etc.

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PW - How do I, How can I, etc.

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PW - What is, What do I, etc.

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PW - When do I, When will, etc.

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PW - Where can I, Where do I, etc.

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PW - Who do I, Who is, etc.

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PW - Why can't I, Why do I, etc.

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PW - Will I, Will you, etc.

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Recycling, Composting & Garbage

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Redemption Taxes

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Redistricting

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Redistricting - Spanish

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Secured Property Tax E-Billing

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Secured Property Taxes

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Sheriffs Office

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Stormwater Discharge Compliance.

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Supplemental Taxes

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Unsecured Property Taxes

Contra Costa County
Treasurer and Tax Collector

P.O Box 631
Martinez, CA 94553.

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Veterans Service Office

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Weatherizing Your Home - Conservation & Development