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Assessor

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1. How do I appeal a supplemental assessment?

You must file an application for reduced assessment no later than 60 days from the date of mailing of this notice.

We always encourage you to contact our office at (530) 283-6380 for a review of your assessment prior to filing a formal appeal.

Please note:
If there have been multiple changes of ownership within the same tax year, the supplemental notice may reflect no change in value for the subsequent transfers, although supplemental taxes or a refund may be due if there has been an increase or decrease in value since lien date, January 1. Supplemental taxes are based on the change in value from lien date to the date of transfer, prorated for your period of ownership.

2. How do I appeal a base-year value assessment?

You must file an application for reduced assessment during the regular equalization period, between July 2 through November 30, inclusive, for the year in which the base year value assessment was initially placed on the assessment roll or in any of the following three assessment years.

We always encourage you to contact our office at (530) 283-6380 for a review of your assessment prior to filing a formal appeal.

3. How do I appeal a current assessment?

You must file an application for reduced assessment between July 2 through November 30, inclusive, of the current fiscal year. The following are exceptions:

• If the notice described in Section 619 is not received within 15 days prior to November 30, within 60 days from either the day you received the notice or the day of the mailing of the tax bill, whichever is earlier, along with an affidavit declaring that the notice was not received timely
  
• Within 12 months following the month of notification of the assessment, if you and the assessor agree that there was an error in the exercise of the assessor’s judgment in determining the full cash value of the property and a written stipulation is filed according to Section 1607

We always encourage you to contact our office at (530) 283-6380 for a review of your assessment prior to filing a formal appeal.

4. How is the taxable value of real property on the local roll calculated?

The taxable value of real property on the local roll shall be the lesser of the following four items:

• The factored base-year value of the property
  
• The current market value of the property
  
• The factored base year value or the current market value of the land plus the factored base year value or the current market value of the improvements if the property was damaged by a calamity and the county has not adopted a Section 170 ordinance
  
• The assessed value as determined according to Section 170 if a county has adopted a Section 170 ordinance

The custodial officer of the local roll shall make the roll or a copy available for inspection during regular office hours.

We always encourage you to contact our office at (530) 283-6380 for a review of your assessment prior to filing a formal appeal.

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Auditor-Controller

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1. What are the taxes on a Plumas County property?

The basic tax rate is 1% of the assessed value. The county currently has three bond measures: Plumas Unified School District Bond, Plumas District Hospital Bond, and Beckwourth CSD Bond. If you need more information, please call the office at (530) 283-6246.

2. Can I get a copy of the county's CAFRA or audit report?

Plumas County does not complete a CAFRA report. However, the county does post the audited financial report online. Information for the prior fiscal year is posted the following March.

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Building Department

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1. How long does it take to obtain a building permit?

A complete submittal (all required documents, engineering, signatures, and planning / zoning requirements) will take an average of 2-4 weeks. This also depends on the department’s workload at the time of submittal. Call the department at (530) 283-7011 before you schedule to submit your plans and construction documents.

Any corrections or revisions will add additional time. The length of the process also depends on the timely and accurate response of your design professionals.

2. How far in advance do I have to schedule an inspection?

Please schedule your inspection 1-2 days in advance. Outlying areas such as La Porte, Frenchman, Vinton, and Dixie Valley are scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursday.

3. Do I call for septic and well inspections through the Building Department?

No. Well and septic inspections are scheduled and inspected by the Department of Environmental Health. Call (530) 283-6355 for more information.

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Code Enforcement

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1. The property next door is in foreclosure and has been abandoned and is becoming a nuisance. What can the county do about this?

Contact the Code Enforcement Department at (530) 283-7002, file a formal complaint, and the department will contact the financial institution that holds title to the property.

2. How many non-operational vehicles can I have on my property?

You may have one non-operational vehicle on your property. It must either be a DMV-registered, non-operational vehicle or an unregistered inoperable vehicle. An exception to this would be a specially constructed vehicle as listed in the California Vehicle Code Section 580.

3. My neighbor’s yard if full of junk and / or junk vehicles but the county has not done anything about them. What is up?

Code enforcement in Plumas County is complaint-driven, and complaints cannot be anonymous. You must file a formal complaint that requires your name, telephone number, and address. Your name is kept confidential unless released by a court order.

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County Clerk - Recorder

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1. What are your recording fees?

For departmental fees, please see our fee schedule.

Fee Schedule

2. How do I get a copy of a Birth, Marriage or Death Certificate?

See our "Forms & Vital Records" page.

Forms & Resources

3. How do I file for a Fictitious Business Name?

See the "Fictitious Business Name Information" page. 

4. Where can I find Marriage License information?

Visit the "Marriage Licenses" page. 

5. Where can I find mining information?

See the "Mining" page. 

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COVID-19

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1. What should I do if I get sick or someone in my house gets sick?

Most people who get COVID-19 will be able to recover at home. CDC has directions for people who are recovering at home and their caregivers, including:

• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Use a separate room and bathroom for sick household members (if possible).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
• If soap and water are not readily-sick/care-for-someone available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Provide your sick household member with clean disposable facemasks to wear at home, if available, to help prevent spreading COVID-19 to others.
• Clean the sick room and bathroom, as needed, to avoid unnecessary contact with the sick person.

However, some people may need emergency medical attention. Watch for symptoms and learn when to seek emergency medical attention.

2. What should I do if I have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19?

• Stay home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who has COVID-19.
• Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
• Avoid interacting with other people, especially people who are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, such as the elderly or people with compromised immune systems.

3. What is the difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic testing?

If you are asymptomatic and have not been identified as having had "close contact" with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, then attending a mass testing event is appropriate. If there is not a mass testing event then contact a Health Care Facility to be screened. Anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms should contact their health care provider immediately, and follow their medical provider’s recommendations for testing and treatment.

4. What do contact tracing and close contact mean?

Plumas County Public Health conducts a case investigation and does contact tracing with all residents who test positive. If someone is identified as having "close contact" with someone who has tested positive, then the "close contact" will be scheduled by Public Health to be tested.

A "close contact" is an individual who has had approximately 15 minutes or more of contact within 6 feet without both people wearing a mask.

If you traveled outside of the county, or if someone outside of the county traveled to see you inside of Plumas County and you were informed that you had close contact with a positive COVID-19 individual, please contact the Plumas County Public Health Agency Clinic at (530) 283-6300 for further instructions.

5. What increases your risk of infection?

You are more likely to be infected with coronavirus if:

• You have close contact with an infected person (within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes without masks)
• You are frequently in a group setting (like an assisted living facility, college dormitory, homeless shelter)
• You have been in an area with high infection rates

You can reduce the risk to yourself and others by:

• Wearing a mask
• Practicing physical distancing
• Washing your hands often

6. I recently traveled outside of Plumas County or someone outside of the county came to visit me and later tested positive for COVID-19. What should I do?

If you traveled outside of the county, or if someone outside of the county traveled to see you inside of Plumas County and you were informed that you had close contact with a positive COVID-19 individual, please contact the Plumas County Public Health Agency Clinic at (530) 283-6300 for further instructions.

7. Is there a cost to get tested?

No. The Health Care Facility may bill your insurance, but all tests are FREE to the patient.

8. Can someone test negative and later test positive on a viral test for COVID-19?

Yes, it is possible. You may test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during your illness. You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then. Even if you test negative, you still should take steps to protect yourself and others.

9. How can I get tested for a past infection (antibody test) and what does my test mean?

Antibody tests for COVID-19 are available through healthcare providers and laboratories. Check with your healthcare provider to see if they offer antibody tests and whether you should get one. A positive test result shows you might have antibodies from an infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. However, there is a chance a positive result means that you have antibodies from an infection with a virus from the same family of viruses (called coronaviruses), such as the one that causes the common cold. Having antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 might provide protection from getting infected with the virus again. If it does, we do not know how much protection the antibodies might provide or how long this protection might last. You should continue to protect yourself and others since you could get infected with the virus again.

If you test negative, you might not have ever had COVID-19. Talk with your healthcare provider about your test result and the type of test you took to understand what your result means. Regardless of whether you test positive or negative, the results do not confirm whether or not you are able to spread the virus that causes COVID-19. Until we know more, continue to take steps to protect yourself and others.

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COVID-19 Vaccinations

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1. I already had Covid, so why would I need the vaccine?

Vaccination is recommended for people who have had COVID because scientific studies show that the immunity from vaccination is stronger and lasts longer than the immunity from having the disease.  Vaccination also appears to give more protection against new variants of the virus.

2. Will the vaccine protect me against variant strains of the coronavirus?

Getting fully vaccinated with either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines is your best protection against severe COVID, hospitalization, and death from all strains of the virus.  In fact, being vaccinated helps stop the virus from developing new strains.  The Johnson & Johnson vaccine appears to be less effective against new variants and we no longer recommend it for most people.

3. Are there important differences between vaccines?

The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are made with similar technology and provide similar high levels of protection against COVID.  These vaccines require two doses several weeks apart. 

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is made with older technology and was designed to require only one dose.   Recent studies suggest it is less effective against new strains of the coronavirus.  Rare, but potentially serious, side effects have also been linked to this vaccine.  For this reason, the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for most people. 

4. How do we know the vaccine is safe and effective?

The Covid-19 vaccines available in the United States have been tested in clinical studies of tens of thousands of people and in real-world observational studies of millions of people. We know from these studies that the available vaccines are almost 100% effective in preventing hospitalization and death from Covid, and that they are also highly effective in preventing most Covid disease and new infections.  

The safety and effectiveness of the vaccines is constantly being evaluated.  But it’s already clear, after 100s of millions of doses, that it’s far safer to be vaccinated than to risk getting Covid, which can be deadly even to young people.

5. I read the vaccine is 95% effective. Does that mean there is still a 5% chance I could get Covid?

No. It means that the risk of getting sick from Covid is 95% lower for a vaccinated person compared to an unvaccinated person.  The actual risk depends on where you live and the kind of things you do, but for a fully vaccinated person it is much less than 5%.

6. I am fully vaccinated. Do I need a booster shot?

Yes. Boosters are now recommended after 6 months for all fully-vaccinated people 16 and older. This is because the vaccines' protection appears to decrease over time, especially for new coronavirus variants.

7. What do we know about side effects?

When questions come up about illnesses that might be vaccine related, they are investigated and the public is given detailed information about the risks of taking the vaccine compared to the risks of getting COVID-19.

The most common side effects are similar to the ones many people have from other vaccines: pain or tenderness at the site of the shot and tiredness and flu-like symptoms about a day later.  

Some people have developed severe allergic reactions after getting a Covid-19 vaccine.  These reactions are rare (less than 5 per million). For your safety, you will be asked about your history of allergy before you are given a vaccine and you will be observed for up to 30 minutes afterward to be sure you are okay.  In the unlikely event that you do have a reaction, emergency medical providers will be on site to treat you immediately. 

So far, no other serious side effects have been definitively linked to the Pfizer or Moderna mRNA vaccines.  

A small number of children and adolescents who got Pfizer or Moderna vaccines have developed inflammations of the heart.  This condition is very rare and is still under investigation, but it does not appear to be more common in vaccinated people.  Blood clots have been found in some women under age 50 who were given the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.  The risk of developing this condition as a result of COVID is greater than the risk associated with vaccination, but in the interest of safety, we no longer recommend the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for women younger than 50.  

8. I have doubts about the Covid vaccines because they were developed so quickly.

It’s true that these vaccines were developed a lot more quickly than traditional vaccines, but the development wasn’t rushed. Several factors made it possible. Scientists already knew a lot about coronaviruses because they cause other diseases. They also started working on the mRNA technology used in the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines more than 10 years ago with the goal of using it to develop vaccines for new diseases quickly in an emergency. Once the COVID vaccines were developed, researchers went through all the usual steps of testing them but saved time by doing them in parallel instead of one after the other.

9. I read the vaccine is 95% effective. Does that mean there is still a 5% chance I could get Covid?

No. It means that the risk of getting sick from COVID is 95% lower for a vaccinated person compared to an unvaccinated person.  The actual risk depends on where you live and the kind of things you do, but for a fully vaccinated person, it is much less than 5%.

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District Attorney

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1. I need some legal advice or a referral to an attorney. Can the District Attorney's Office help me with this?

The District Attorney is the public prosecutor for Plumas County and does not provide legal advice or representation for individuals, nor do we make recommendations about private attorneys.

2. I was arrested. Can the District Attorney's Office give me a copy of my police report?

The District Attorney’s Office does not release police reports except to defense counsel, or to the defendant when the court has allowed the defendant to represent him or herself.

3. I want a restraining order to keep my spouse or other person away from me. Will the District Attorney’s Office do this for me?

The District Attorney does not represent private individuals. If you want to get a restraining order, contact the Plumas County Victim/Witness Assistance Division at (530) 283-6285.

4. I am the victim of a crime and I want to drop charges. Can I do this?

The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by a prosecutor with the approval of a judge. The victim’s wishes alone do not dictate whether or not a case will be filed or dismissed.

If you are the victim of a crime and have questions about the resources available to you, contact the Plumas County Victim/Witness Assistance Division at (530) 283-6285.

5. I was the victim of a crime. How do I find out what is happening with the case in court?

To find out the status of your case, contact the District Attorney’s Office at (530) 283-6303.

6. I am the defendant in a criminal case. Can I talk to the District Attorney?

Contact your attorney to discuss your case. The District Attorney cannot speak to defendants who are represented by counsel, nor can we provide legal advice to the public.

7. I received a subpoena. What do I do?

If the subpoena is from the Plumas County District Attorney's Office, contact us at (530) 283-6303 to confirm your receipt of the subpoena. During this contact, make sure to provide updated contact information so our office can call you if the court date is changed. Otherwise, you must appear in court on the date and time indicated on the subpoena. A subpoena is a court order and failure to appear may be punished as contempt of court.

8. I am a merchant. Can the District Attorney’s Office help me collect a bad check?

The District Attorney’s Office has established a Bad Check Program which may be able to help you. For further information, contact us at (530) 283-6303.

9. In court, the judge ordered the defendant to pay restitution to me. So far I haven’t received any money. What should I do?

Contact the Plumas County Probation Department at (530) 283-6200.

10. Can I report a crime to the District Attorney’s Office?

In most cases, crimes must be reported to the Plumas County Sheriff's Office or other law enforcement agency which has jurisdiction over the area where the crime occurred. A list of the law enforcement agencies in Plumas County is located on this website’s “Links” page (https://www.plumascounty.us/1906/Links). 

11. I was cited and released by the police. Can you tell me if the District Attorney filed charges against me?

To find out whether charges have been filed against you, contact the District Attorney’s Office at (530) 283-6303.

12. Is David Hollister the person working on my case? Can I talk to him?

David Hollister is the District Attorney of Plumas County and, as such, his name appears on most court documents just above the name of the prosecutor who prepared the document. In addition, Mr. Hollister’s name appears on most District Attorney’s Office correspondence just above the signature of the employee who wrote the letter. Therefore, the person who is working on your case is most likely the person who actually signed the court document or District Attorney’s Office correspondence.

13. Is Mr. Hollister available to speak before a community group (Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, etc.)?

Mr. Hollister often speaks at a variety of community groups ranging from Chambers of Commerce and Rotary to High School and Grade School classes. Please contact the District Attorney’s Office at (530) 283-6303 to make the appropriate arrangements.

14. I am a student and interested in becoming a prosecutor. Does the District Attorney’s Office have any type of program that can help me?

Mr. Hollister is a strong believer in assisting the educational process of those wishing to explore a potential career as a prosecutor. To this end, Mr. Hollister has instituted three programs: a High School externship, a College or Law School externship, and a Law School internship. In each of these programs, the intern/extern will have hands-on exposure to the everyday activities of a prosecutor. For more information, contact the District Attorney's Office at (530) 283-6303.

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Elections

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1. Where do I vote?

All Plumas County voters receive their ballots through the mail.  Those ballots are mailed to mailing addresses 29 days prior to every election.  Watch for the ballot in an officially marked envelope and do not discard it.  

2. How do I register to vote?

You can use this form to register to vote or update your current voter registration.

3. Where can I find the most recent Election results?

Election Results

Most Recent Results I All Results

4. How many political parties are in California?

There are six Political Parties in California. Would you like to know more about each one of them? Visit Political Party Information to learn information about each party or click the links below. 

Republican I Democratic I American Independent I Libertarian I Green I Peace & Freedom

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Environmental Health (Leeches)

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1. I’ve heard leeches have been found in some Plumas County lakes and ponds. Should I be concerned?

Leeches are native residents of our local lakes. They are a common food for fish and waterfowl and an important part of the natural food web in our local area. 

2. Can leeches harm me or my children?

While certainly unpleasant, leeches in our region are not known to transmit human diseases, and are generally not a public health concern. Be careful removing leeches from the skin. If their mouth-parts are left in the skin, they may cause irritation or infection. 

3. Where do leeches typically live?

Leeches are typically found in shallow, protected water, among aquatic plants, or under stones, logs, and other debris. Shallow areas along the edge of the lakes and ponds are an ideal habitat. 

4. What is the best way to avoid leeches in natural swimming areas?

Summertime means more leeches. Leeches prefer shallow, protected areas of lakes. Swimming in deeper waters and in areas free of plants and debris will reduce the likelihood of a leech finding you. 

5. What should I do after removing a leech that has attached to my skin?

Be sure to clean, disinfect, and bandage leech bites to prevent infection as you would any other cut. A leech bite may ooze for several hours after the leech is removed. This is caused by compounds present in leech saliva that prevent blood from clotting. There may also be irritation or itching after a bite, similar to the allergic reaction some people have to mosquito bites. If the wound doesn’t heal properly, contact your healthcare provider. 

6. Can we treat leeches in natural swimming areas?

There is no practical way to control leeches in natural waters. Chemical control measures that would reduce leech populations will also harm other beneficial aquatic animals including fish. Because leeches like to conceal themselves under sticks, stones, and other debris, swimming in areas free of such material is the best way to help reduce human/leech encounters.

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HIPAA Information

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1. Who is protected by HIPAA?

Individuals receiving health care services provided by or paid for by a Plumas County Department or Agency. Additionally, the health information of County Employees who are enrolled in the County Health Plan are protected, as is the health information of deceased individuals whose health care services were paid for or provided by the County.

2. What is a Notice of Privacy Practices?

The NPP is the document that informs patients or clients about their privacy rights and our privacy practices. The NPP is posted in all County facilities providing healthcare services, is available on the County website, and is also given to individuals being seen by a County health care provider, and anyone else who asks for it.

3. What information is confidential?

Any information about the health of an individual, which identifies or can be used to identify the individual is confidential. This includes information that relates to the physical, mental, or emotional health or condition of an individual and the provision of, or payment for, health care of the individual. HIPAA applies to information communicated orally and in writing; it also applies to information stored in hard copy or electronically (on a computer, server, floppy drive, CD, or PDA) and information being sent by e-mail.

4. Why do I need to know about HIPAA if I don't work around patients?

If you work for the County you may see confidential information. Information Technology employees and fiscal employees may not see patients or clients but they will see confidential information about them. If you walk through patient or client care areas on your way to your office, you may see individuals utilizing County services. HIPAA says you must keep this information confidential. That means if you see a friend or neighbor at the County as a client or patient, you must not disclose that to anyone else - not to co-workers, other friends, your family, or friends or family of the individual you saw.

5. May I share information or discuss clients with a co-worker?

HIPAA allows information to be used or disclosed when you have written, specific authorization from the individual OR for treatment, payment, or health care operations. Without written authorization, you may share information and discuss clients with co-workers ONLY if your co-worker needs to know the information to successfully perform his/her job, or the disclosure is made while you are officially conducting a medical review.

6. How do I file a complaint?

Individuals who believe the County has failed to handle health information in accordance with HIPAA may file complaints with the County or with the Office of Civil Rights. The Notice of Privacy Practice contains addresses and telephone numbers where individuals may obtain more information or file complaints; it is available on the County website in both English and Spanish. A complaint form (PDF) is also available from the County website.

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Marketing - Online Resources

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1. Where do I apply for a Certified Farmers' Market Certificate or a Certified Producers' Certificate?

Certified Farmers' Market Information

2. Where can I find a list of Certified Farmers' Markets?

List of Certified Farmers' Markets

3. Where can I find out more information on Community Supported Agriculture Programs?

Information on Community-Supported Agriculture Programs

4. Where can I find out more about state egg registration?

Egg Safety and Quality Management Program

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Planning Department

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1. What is the parcel zoning and APN?

See the Plumas County GIS Map Portal for primary zoning, APN (Assessor Parcel Number), and combining zones in addition to more such as planning area boundaries, planned development designations, airport safety zones, fire districts, water/sewer districts, snow load, supervisorial districts, school districts, hospital districts, and cemetery districts. 

2. Where else can I find the parcel APN?

Plumas County Accessor Parcel Numbers (APN) and situs addresses can be found on the Plumas County Parcel Quest.

3. Can I build a second unit on my parcel?

Provided building requirements can be met, all single-family residentially zoned parcels (2-R, 3-R, and 7-R) can have one primary dwelling unit (no square footage requirement) and one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) of no more than 1,200 square feet and one additional detached dwelling unit on any parcel of twice or more the minimum lot area. 

Multiple-family residential zoned parcels can also have ADUs. 

All parcels zoned S-1, S-3, R-10, and R-20, are allowed one primary dwelling unit; including an attached additional quarters for living and sleeping purposes (defined as no more than 30% of the primary dwelling unit floor area, excluding garages and carports), and one guest house of no more than 1,200 square feet, and one additional detached dwelling unit on any parcel of twice or more the minimum lot area.

4. Does the parcel have any combining zones?

*Flood Plain Combing Zone (FP) regulates development to achieve reasonable safety from flood hazards.

*Special Plan Combining Zone (SP) (DRA, ScA, ScR, HA, HB) administers design review areas, scenic areas, special plan-historical areas, and designated historical buildings.

*Mobile Home Combining Zone (MH) provides for the installation of manufactured homes and commercial coaches on support systems.

*Business Exclusion Combining Zone (BX) - precludes or excludes businesses in the context of the use of land, dwelling units, or appurtenant structures.

*Farm Animal Combining Zone (F) - provides for animal husbandry (large and small).

*Limited Combining Zone (Ltd) - permits and mitigates uses that have the potential to have significant adverse social, economic, or environmental effects, and to implement the General Plan Diagram Directive for industrial areas.

5. Can I have chickens?

If the zoning district (e.g., “S-1” “S-3” “R-10” “R-20”) allows “Small animal husbandry” defined as, care and raising of hoofless livestock for the personal use of residents of the property and 4-H market projects.

OR Follow the Backyard Chicken Ordinance (Title 9, Planning and Zoning, Chapter 2 Zoning, Article 43) in Single-Family Residential Zones (2-R, 3-R, 7-R). 

OR If the parcel has a Farm Animal Combining Zone (F).

6. Can I have horses, cows, pigs, sheep, goats…?

If the zoning district (e.g., “S-3” “R-10” “R-20”) allows “Large animal husbandry” defined as, the care and raising of hoofed livestock for the personal use of residents of the property, 4-H market and breeding projects, except horses, cows, and pigs, and the care and raising of horses, cows, and pigs at the ratio of two (2) animals with their young (one year old or less) for the first acre of property and one additional animal for each additional one-half (½) acre. Horses, cows, or pigs may not be kept on parcels smaller than one acre. 

OR If the parcel has a Farm Animal Combining Zone (F). 

OR If it’s a 4-H market project requiring a no-fee special use permit (in certain zoning districts).

7. When do I need a special use permit?

Refer to Title 9, Planning and Zoning, Chapter 2 Zoning, Articles 13 through Article 34 for the zoning districts and see “Uses” Sec. to understand what “shall be permitted” and what is “subject to the issuance of a special use permit.”

8. How are uses defined?

Refer to Title 9, Planning and Zoning, Chapter 2 Zoning, Article 2 Definitions, for specifically defined words (note, words, and phrases used in Chapter 2 Zoning which are not defined are defined by common usage).

9. How do I obtain a special use permit?

The fee is $1,231, is processed by Planning staff, and goes before the Zoning Administrator (Planning Director).

10. How do you combine two or more parcels into one parcel?

Fee is $202 and is called an Owner Initiated Merger (Plumas County Code Sec. 9-3.1001).

11. How do you move property lines to reconfigure parcel boundaries?

Fee is $1,131 + $62/lot and is called a Lot Line Adjustment (Plumas County Code Sec. 9-2.1281 through Sec. 9-2.1284).

12. I have two APNs. How do I know if I have two legal sellable parcels?

APNs exist only for identification of property for County assessor / tax collector purposes. APNs are not legitimate legal descriptions for a deed or other conveyance such as a deed of trust. Just because there are multiple APNs does not necessarily mean there are all legal sellable parcels. County Planning can process (and record) a Certificate of Compliance (Fee $1,009 per resultant parcel) per the Subdivision Map Act to determine legal parcels.

13. Does the County have PUD conditions on file?

Yes, call the Planning Department, for Planned Unit Development (PUD) conditions of approval (COAs). 

14. Does the County have HOA CC&Rs on file?

No, the County does not have information on private individual Homeowners Associations for CC&Rs. Refer to a title report.

15. Where can I find recorded maps?

Visit the County Engineering Department webpage for parcel maps, subdivision maps, records of surveys, assessor map books, and more. To request copies of maps and other large format documents, go to the online portal to submit copy and scan requests.

16. Where can I find FEMA floodplain maps?

Go to https://www.plumascounty.us/2295/FEMA-Flood-Insurance-Rate-Maps-Informati or the FEMA FIRM portal at: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home and search by address.

17. Where do I find planning applications?

Go to the Planning Department page. Also provided are other handouts, zoning information, a fee schedule, and Public Record Act Request form. 

18. I need to call Caltrans for an encroachment permit issue, who should I call?

John Yolton at 530-215-8549

john.yolton@dot.ca.gov

19. I need to call HCD to start a mobilehome / RV park, who should I call?

Lou Turold at 707-492-2028

Louis.Turold@hcd.ca.gov

20. I need to call CAL FIRE Lassen Modoc-Unit, who should I call?

Jonathan Pangburn, Plumas Area Forester, CAL FIRE Lassen-Modoc Unit 

Serving Plumas County P.O. Box F (171 Lawrence St.) Quincy, CA 95971

530-283-9322 office / 530-521-8654 cell Jonathan.Pangburn@fire.ca.gov

21. What is required by AB 38 (2019)?

On or after July 1, 2021, when selling a residential property (real estate transaction) in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) documentation (disclosure) of a compliant (Public Resource Code Sec. 4291) Defensible Space Inspection (DSI) is required. See CAL FIRE viewer to determine FHSZ: https://egis.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ

22. Where do I find the Minimum Fire Safe Regulations?

As of April 1, 2023, the California Code of Regulations, Title 14 Natural Resources, Division 1.5 Department of Forestry, Chapter 7 - Fire Protection, Subchapter 2 State Minimum Fire Safe Regulations, Articles 1-5 have been updated viewed here for the latest regulations: https://govt.westlaw.com/calregs

23. How do I know if the parcel is in a Firewise community?

Go to the Plumas County Fire Safe Council website at: https://www.plumasfiresafe.org/firewise-usa.html there are 26 total Firewise communities in Plumas County.

24. Does being in a Firewise community help with obtaining fire insurance?

Maybe, go to the CA Department of Insurance Commissioner website to view a list of insurers currently offering based on community wildfire mitigation: https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/95-guides/03-res/Insurers-Currently-Offering-Discounts.cfm

25. Where are wedding venues allowed?

Wedding venues are considered a “Place of assembly” use in most zoning districts (may require a special use permit). 

OR In “AP” and “GA” agricultural zones Title 9 Planning and Zoning, Chapter 2 Zoning, Article 44 Commercial Social Event, Limited applies where administrative use permit (19 or fewer events per year with no more than 250 guests) or special use permit (20+ events per year) standards are defined to regulate the operation of a limited commercial social event while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the community.

26. How do I know if the parcel is in a Williamson Act Contract?

Generally, parcel zoned “AP” or Agricultural Preserve are in Williamson Act Contract, but not always. Call the Planning Department to inquire. The purpose of the AP zone is to provide land use regulations consistent with the intent of the Plumas County Williamson Act program for agricultural preserves. The Williamson Act, also known as the California Land Conservation Act of 1965, enables local governments to enter into contracts with private landowners for the purpose of restricting specific parcels of land to agricultural or related open space use.  In return, landowners receive property tax assessments which are much lower than normal because they are based upon farming and open space uses as opposed to full market value.

27. Am I allowed to camp in an RV on the property?

Camping is permitted on private land (non-commercial/not a campground) for no more than 120 days in a calendar year if all aspects of the County health regulations are met and subject to the concurrence of the property owner. After 17 consecutive days proper health and sanitation is required (e.g., RV hook up for well and septic). Note, the number of RVs used for camping may be at least one (1) and otherwise shall not exceed the number of dwelling units and additional quarters and the guest house permitted on the property by the zoning, less the number thereof on the property.

*Camping is prohibited countywide in Single-Family Residential Zones (2-R, 3-R, 7-R), Multiple-Family Residential Zone (M-R), Core Commercial Zone (C-1), Periphery Commercial Zone (C-2), Convenience Commercial Zone (C-3), Recreation-Open Space Zone (Rec-OS), Open Space Zone (OS), and Lake Zone (L).

*Camping is allowed countywide in Suburban (S-1), Secondary Suburban (S-3), Rural (R-10), Rural (R-20), Recreation Commercial (R-C), Recreation (Rec-P, Rec-1, Rec-3, Rec-10, Rec-20), Heavy Industrial (I-1), Light Industrial (I-2), Agricultural Preserve (AP), General Agriculture (GA), Timberland Production (TPZ), General Forest (GF), and Mining (M).

28. Can I live year-round in a tiny home on wheels?

No, a tiny home on wheels is considered an RV in Plumas County. See above “camping” rules for RVs. 

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Probation

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1. What is Formal/Supervised Probation?

Formal or supervised probation is a court ordered sanction that allows a person to remain in the community under the supervision of a probation officer. The terms and conditions of this supervision varies case by case. Probation can include jail time, fines, restitution, community service, counseling, drug/alcohol restrictions, or other sanctions.

2. Where is the Probation Department located?

The Plumas County Adult and Juvenile Probation Department is located at 270 County Hospital Road, Suite 128 in Quincy, California. 

3. How can I pay my Court or Probation fines, fees, or restitution?

Delinquent fines, fees, and restitution owed to Probation and the Court are collected by the Treasurer’s Department, located in the Plumas County Court House at 520 Main Street, Quincy, CA  95971.  To make payments online, please visit  https://www.plumascounty.us/2172/GovPayNet.  To make payments by phone, please call 1-888-604-7888.  If you should have any questions, please contact the Treasurers’ Department at (530) 283-6260.   

4. Can I vote while I am on probation?

Yes. In California, you have the right to vote while you are on probation. You must be a United States citizen, a resident of California, and at least 18 years of age.

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Public Health Agency

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1. Where can I receive family planning information in my community?

Family planning services are provided by Public Health in Portola, Greenville, Quincy, and Chester. Please contact (530) 283-6330 to schedule your appointment.

2. I am a senior citizen - is there a nutrition program available to me?

Yes, the agency's nutrition program encourages all senior citizens to enjoy lunch at their local nutrition site.

If you are 60 years of age or older, or you are married to someone 60 years of age or older, join us from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm for a nutritious meal and fellowship, education, entertainment, and fun.

Contact Martha at (530) 283-3546 for site addresses, locations, and more information.

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Public Works

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1. Why does the county plow snow into my driveway and not just push it past?

Snow plowing equipment is designed to shear snow from the width of the road and distribute it to the side of the road in the form of a berm. The equipment would have to slow down to change the angle of the plow in an attempt to carry the snow past your driveway and the result will be taller berms. Additionally, a portion of the snow being pushed will fall into the center of the road creating additional road hazards.

2. Why does the county cut limbs off the trees along the roads?

Tree limbs that can reach vehicles when laden with snow cause the travel way to narrow, resulting in roadway hazards. Also, as the snow falls from these limbs, it creates concentrations of ice pack. By trimming these limbs, it reduces risks to the public.

3. Will the County survey my property?

No. County employees cannot undertake private survey work within their jurisdiction. The conducting of private surveys by the County’s survey crew would constitute unfair and illegal competition with private surveyors doing work in the county. Refer to the yellow pages under "Surveyors - Land" should you need private survey work performed.

4. How do I get the speed limit changed on my street?

After receiving a request for a speed zone, Public Works staff completes the required Engineering and Traffic Study. The study includes:
• A review of all speed related collisions for a three year period.
• The measurement of existing speeds with a radar meter, using an unmarked vehicle.
• Calculating the critical speed (also called the 85th percentile speed).
• A survey of the roadway and roadside conditions.

If the Agency agrees that a speed zone is justified, a recommendation is presented to the
Board of Supervisors. Should the Board approve the zone, signs are posted and enforcement can begin. Where local speed limits are to be enforced by radar or other electronic devices (such as laser meters), the studies must be no more than seven years old.

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Social Services

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1. How do I contact my Benefits Counselor or my Social Worker?

Please call the main office at (530) 283-6350.

2. How can I determine if I am eligible for benefits such as Medi-Cal or CalFresh?

C4Yourself is an online application system that allows you to apply for benefits. This is a secured site and all your information will be private and safe.

3. How can I find hiring opportunities in the Social Services Department?

Visit Merit System Services for current job opportunities with the Plumas County Social Services Department.

4. Can I pay my fines and fees using a Credit Card?

Plumas County now accepts credit and debit card payments through GovPayNet for payment of Fines and Fees.

Payments can be made 24 hours/ 7 days a week with a major credit card, debit or pre-paid debit card including:

To Make a Payment, you will need the following:

• Pay Location (PLC #)
• Name and Address
• Account Number
• Phone Number
• Payment Amount

Pay Location Code Number a002ug

To make payments by phone, payers can call 1-888-604-7888.

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Treasurer / Tax Collector

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1. Are tax bills available online?

Yes More...

2. Can I pay by credit card?

Yes, you can pay online at Public Tax Inquiry & Payments . 

3. How do I appeal the value of my property?

This area is covered by the county Assessor's Office.
Assessment Reviews / Appeals

4. Are there special circumstances applied to senior citizens, blind, or disabled persons?

Program suspended by the State at this time.
These programs are handled by the state. For more information, see Property Tax Postponement or call the State Controller's Office at (800) 952-5661.

5. Can a mortgage company request copies of my tax bills?

A standardized, statewide procedure has been established for mortgage companies to request copies of tax bills. Requests are submitted annually by September. Any bill requested by a mortgage company is furnished to that company. A taxpayer's information copy is sent to the owner of record.

Any discrepancies in requests should be handled by the taxpayer with their mortgage company. Mortgage companies generally do not request or receive copies of supplemental tax bills.

6. Do you sell property tax liens?

We do not sell property tax liens. Monthly payment plans are available on specific obligations. Please contact the Tax Collector's office at (530) 283-6260 for more information.

7. How do I obtain a revolving fund advance?

For authorized county departments only: Please print the revolving fund advance voucher, obtain the signature of the authorized individual and bring the voucher, along with two copies, to the Treasurer's Office for processing at:
P.O. Box 176
Quincy, CA. 95971

8. How do I obtain transient occupancy tax forms?

Plumas County Code has specific requirements for property owners renting certain properties for a period of 30 days or less to collect Transient Occupancy Tax. This office is responsible for the registration of owners and operators and for the collection of the quarterly tax.

Registration Form
Registration should be made prior to the operation of the rental. Complete the Transient Occupancy Tax Registration Form and mail it to:
P.O. Box 176
Quincy, CA. 95971

Quarterly Return Form
For registered owners / operators, a Transient Occupancy Tax Quarterly Return Form can be completed and submitted to the address listed above when the original form mailed by this office is not available or circumstances warrant an additional form being necessary.

9. How do I transfer a title / move my mobile home?

In order to transfer title or move a mobile home that is being assessed by the County Assessor on the property tax rolls, a Mobile Home Tax Clearance Certificate is required by the State Housing and Community Department (HCD). Mobile Home Tax Clearance Certificates are issued by this department after proper application has been made, appropriate documentation has been provided, and any taxes or estimated taxes that are a lien against a mobile home at the time of the issuance have been paid.

Please complete the application form, attach required documentation, and submit to:
P.O. Box 176
Quincy, CA. 95971

10. What are unsecured taxes, and how do I pay them?

Unsecured taxes are assessments for mining claims, boats, possessory interests to land, and other personal properties not attached to land. Unsecured bills are mailed by July 31 and become delinquent if not paid or postmarked by August 31.

All taxes on mining claims must be paid before a proof of labor or intent to hold can be recorded by the county recorder or filed with the Bureau of Land Management. Any person can obtain a tax bill from the Treasurer / Tax Collector's office.

11. What do I do if my address has changed?

Any change of address on an assessment should be made to the Plumas County Assessor's office at:
1 Crescent Street
Quincy, CA 95971

12. What happens when unsecured taxes become delinquent?

Certificates of Tax Liens will be recorded in Plumas County and the county of residence if unsecured taxes become delinquent. The law provides that any asset of the assessee(s), including (but not limited to) rents, bank accounts, tax refunds, and wages, will become subject to seizure and/or attachment by virtue of execution of judgments.

13. What methods of payment do you accept?

We accept personal checks, cashier’s checks, and money orders. Please do not mail cash payments. Cash payments can be made in person or mailed to the office at: P.O. Box 176 Quincy, CA. 95971 We also accept credit card payments for taxes, fines, or fees. You can pay online at Public Tax Inquiry & Payments . 

14. When are property tax statements due?

The first installment of taxes are due and payable on November 1st, annually, and become delinquent if not paid in the office or postmarked by 5:00 pm on December 10th. A 10% penalty is added for payments received after this date.

The second installment is due February 1st, annually, and becomes delinquent if not paid in the office or postmarked by 5:00 pm on April 10th, A 10% penalty and a $20 cost is added for payments received after this date.

Please note: Both installments may be paid together. The second cannot be paid until the first has been paid. If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the hour of delinquency is 5:00 pm on the next business day.

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Vaccine Safety

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1. I have heard vaccines are more dangerous than the diseases they protect against. Isn't it safer for my child to get the disease?

• Results of a study published in the June 2010 issue of Pediatrics show that the biggest risk among children who are not vaccinated is the disease itself, as well as the risk of spreading the disease to more vulnerable populations who, for age or medical reasons, are unable to get vaccinated. (1)
• A recent 2010 pertussis outbreak in California resulted in 10 deaths. (2)
• According to pediatrician Dr. Randy Bergen, a number of large vaccine safety studies have been published in the last 10 years. "None of these studies have proven an association between a vaccine, a preservative in a vaccine, or a combination of vaccines, and significant adverse problems." Vaccines in this country are safe, he adds, they, "prevent diseases that can maim and kill". (3)
• Even one serious adverse event from a vaccine cannot be justified if there were no benefits from vaccines. But vaccines prevent serious complications from illness and death. (10)

2. Can vaccines cause encephalitis (brain inflammation) and other severe consequences?

All vaccines and medication come with some amount of risk, just as all diseases present risk. Parents should weigh the risk vs. benefit.

• There is a 1 in 1,000,000 risks of encephalitis from the MMR vaccine. Comparatively, the risk of encephalitis from contracting measles is 1 in 1,000.
• There is a 0-10.5 in 1,000,000 risks of encephalitis from DTaP; Comparatively, there is a 1 in 20 risk of death from diphtheria; 2 in 10 risks of death from tetanus; and 1 in 20 risks of Encephalitis /1 in 1,500 risks of death from pertussis.
• The fact is that a child is far more likely to be seriously injured by a disease that could be prevented by the vaccine than the vaccine itself.
• Many parents say they will only vaccinate their children if there are zero risks. Unfortunately, the risk of their child getting a preventable disease, or being seriously injured or dying from that disease, is not zero.
• The risk of encephalitis or severe allergic reaction from the MMR vaccine is 1 in 1,000,000;

The risk of pneumonia from measles: 6 in 100

The risk of death from measles: 2 in 1,000

(4, 10)

3. If vaccines are safe, why has the federal government paid more than $2 billion to children and adults injured by vaccines?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resource Services Administration acknowledges that no vaccine, medication, medical procedure, or device is completely without risk. It administers compensation under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act as a means to compensate families and individuals who have experienced adverse events from vaccines.

• Since 1989, 14,523 total petitions have been filed and studied on a scientific and medical basis; 3,166 have been found to be compensable.
• Some compensable cases were originally filed and processed as autism-related cases, but the final adjudication did not include a finding of vaccine-related autism.
• HHS has never concluded in any case that autism was caused by vaccination.
• This HHS program pays families for all costs of filing and pursuing a claim, regardless of if the claim is ever compensated. (5)

4. Is it possible that aluminum in vaccines could be harmful to normal, healthy babies?

No. Minute amounts of aluminum salts, less than from breastfeeding or formula feeding, are in some vaccine formulations as an adjuvant to enhance the immune response.

• During the first 6 months of life, infants could receive about 4 milligrams of aluminum from vaccines. That's not very much: a milligram is one-thousandth of a gram and a gram is the weight of one-fifth of a teaspoon of water. During the same period, babies will also receive about 10 milligrams of aluminum in breast milk, about 40 milligrams in infant formula, or about 120 milligrams in soy-based formula.
• The quantity of aluminum in vaccines is tiny compared with the quantity required to cause harm. Here's another way to think about this: All babies are either breastfed or bottle-fed. Because both breast milk and infant formula contain aluminum, all babies have small quantities of aluminum in their bloodstreams all the time. The amount is very small: about 5 nanograms (billionths of a gram) per milliliter of blood (about one-fifth of a teaspoon). Indeed, the quantity of aluminum in vaccines is so small that even after an injection of vaccines; the amount of aluminum in a baby's blood does not detectably change. In contrast, the amount of aluminum in the bloodstreams of people who suffer health problems from aluminum is at least 100 times greater than the amount found in the bloodstreams of healthy people. (6)

5. Is it true many as 50% of vaccines used in the U.S. contain mercury, which has been linked in the media with autism?

No.

• Thimerosal is a preservative used in a few adult vaccines and is 50% mercury by weight.
• Nearly all of the vaccines routinely recommended for childhood vaccination up to age 6 have never contained thimerosal. In addition, these vaccine formulations have been further studied by the FDA and approved as thimerosal-free. Plumas County Public Health Agency does not provide any childhood vaccines containing thimerosal, with the exception of the flu vaccine. There are thimerosal-free flu vaccines available for pediatric patients and pregnant women.
• See the FDA site for vaccine safety for a table of thimerosal contact in vaccines. (7)

6. I have heard about the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS). Does this mean there are more dangers from vaccines than are being reported to VAERS?

Question: I have heard about the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS). The CDC states: "Limitations of passive surveillance systems include variability in reporting standards, reporter bias and significant under-reporting of events." Does this mean there are more dangers from vaccines than are being reported to VAERS?

Answer: No.

• VAERS receives only a portion of the total number of events ("numerator") that occur after vaccination. Computing reporting rates from VAERS may be misleading since there is no "denominator" or total doses administered. These limitations make the incidence rates unreliable.
• A report made to VAERS does not mean that the vaccine caused the event. VAERS is a national system for reporting health problems that happen around the same time as the vaccination. Only some of the reported health conditions are side effects related to vaccines. A certain number of VAERS reports of serious illnesses or death do occur by chance alone among persons who have been recently vaccinated.
• VAERS reports have many limitations since they often lack important information, such as laboratory results, used to establish a true association with the vaccine. For all serious and other clinically significant events (life-threatening events, hospitalization, permanent disability, death), follow-up with the health care provider and/or the parent or vaccinated individual is conducted in an attempt to collect supplemental information on the reports. Because of the limitations of this type of reporting system, causality is difficult to determine. Regardless of the cause, VAERS is interested in hearing about any health concerns that happen around the time of vaccination. Scientists are not able to identify a problem with a vaccine lot based on VAERS reports alone without scientific analysis of other factors and data. (4, 8)

7. Why should I vaccinate my child when vaccines are not 100% effective and don't always last a lifetime?

No vaccine is 100% effective. Most childhood vaccines are effective in 85-95% of recipients. In the US and Plumas County, more people are vaccinated than are not, though that could change.

Example:

• If in a high school of 1,000, all but 5 kids are vaccinated against measles, and all the children are exposed to an outbreak, the 5 unvaccinated will be infected. Of the 995 remaining students that have been vaccinated, let's say less than 1% or 7 students, did not respond to the vaccination. They will get ill also. So, 12 kids got sick. If nobody in the class got vaccinated, there probably would have been 1,000 cases of measles. With a risk of the following complications:
  • 6 cases of pneumonia
  • 1 encephalitis
  • 2 deaths

(4, 10)

8. Is it difficult to get legal exemptions to vaccination for school enrollment?

No. California law allows for medical and personal belief exemptions to its student immunization requirement. Schools have standardized procedures for parents and guardians who request a personal beliefs exemption. (9) See your school nurse if you have any questions.

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Vote By Mail

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1. How can I verify the status of my vote by mail ballot?

Please contact the Elections Division at (530) 283-6256 or (530) 283-6129 to verify the status of your vote by mail ballot.