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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I determine what use I can make of a tax sale property before I purchase it?
The Humboldt County Community Development Services can provide information regarding zoning, General Plan designation, water source, and if a permitted structure is located on a particular property. The Humboldt County Community Development Services can be contacted at 707-445-7541 and is located at:
3015 H St.
Eureka, CA 95501

All recorded easements on a particular property can be obtained by reviewing the records located in the Recorder’s Office, who can be contacted at 707-445-7593 or 888-486-2732 and is located at:
825 5th St.
5th Floor
Eureka CA 95501

You can view the geographic information system database for more information.

Show All Answers

1. What is tax-defaulted property with Notice of Power to Sell?
2. Why does the county sell tax-defaulted property?
3. What laws govern the sale of tax-defaulted property in California?
4. Is a tax sale publicly advertised?
5. Does the county guarantee the property?
6. Are contaminated / possible contaminated properties identified?
7. When does the right to redeem a tax-defaulted property cease?
8. How is the minimum bid on a tax sale property determined?
9. Can I obtain title to the property by paying the delinquent taxes?
10. Do liens or encumbrances on a tax-defaulted property transfer to the new owner after purchase of the property at a tax sale?
11. How do I find or see a parcel of property I’d like to bid on at the tax sale?
12. How can I obtain Assessor’s plat maps?
13. How can I determine what use I can make of a tax sale property before I purchase it?
14. How can I find out if a particular property has been withdrawn from the sale?
15. How can I register as a bidder?
16. How does the bidding process work?
17. What happens if I am the successful bidder but decide that I don’t want the property after all?
18. How can a successful bidder pay for a property at tax sale?
19. What kind of title do I get?
20. How will title in the deed to the purchaser be vested?
21. How soon can I take possession of a property after purchase at the tax sale?
22. What happens to property that does not sell at the tax sale?
23. How can I get more information?