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Assessor

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1. What is the Welfare Exemption?

The Legislature has the authority to exempt property (1) used exclusively for religious, hospital, or charitable purposes, and (2) owned or held in trust by nonprofit organizations operating for those purposes. This exemption is popularly known as the welfare exemption and was first adopted by voters as a constitutional amendment on November 7, 1944. When the Legislature enacted section 214 of the Revenue and Taxation Code to implement the Constitutional provision in 1945, a fourth purpose scientific, was added to the three mentioned in the Constitution. In general, the welfare exemption from local property tax is available to property of organizations formed and operated exclusively for qualifying purposes (religious, scientific, hospital or charitable), which use their property exclusively for those purposes. Both the organizational and property use requirements must be met for the exemption to be granted. The Welfare and Veterans' Organization Exemptions are jointly administered by the Board of Equalization (BOE) and the county assessor. The BOE determines whether the organization is eligible to receive the welfare or veterans' organization exemption and the county assessor determines whether the use of the property is eligible for the exemption. If the BOE determines that an organization is eligible, the BOE issues an Organizational Clearance Certificate for the claimant to provide with exemption claim forms filed in any of the 58 counties. The county assessor reviews claims for the welfare exemption, and the assessor's determination of whether an organization's property use satisfies the requirements of section 214 will be made by the county assessor without review by the BOE staff. However, the assessor may not grant a claim unless the organization holds a valid Organizational Clearance Certificate issued by the BOE. The assessor may deny an exemption claim, based on non-qualifying use of the property, notwithstanding the claimant's organizational clearance certificate granted by the BOE.

2. How does an organization file a claim for the Welfare or Veterans' Organization Exemption?

A county assessor may not grant a claim for the welfare exemption unless the organization holds a valid Organizational Clearance Certificate issued by the BOE. Claim form BOE-277, Claim for Organizational Clearance Certificate-Welfare Exemption, and claim form BOE-279, Claim for Organizational Clearance Certificate-Veterans' Organization Exemption, are available on the BOE's website. You may also request a copy of a claim form by contacting the BOE's Property Tax Exemption Section at 1-916-274-3430.

3. When must a claim for the Welfare or Veterans' Organization Exemption claim be filed?

Claims to obtain an Organizational Clearance Certificate may be filed with the BOE at any time throughout the year. Claims for the welfare exemption must be filed annually with the county assessor, generally by February 15. If a claim is filed after February 15, a partial exemption may still be granted. The assessor may not grant a claim unless the organization holds a valid Organizational Clearance Certificate issued by the BOE. The law recognizes mid-year acquisitions of real property by qualified organizations. The property will be eligible for exemption from the supplemental assessment if the organization claiming the exemption is a qualified organization and meets the qualifications for the exemption no later than 180 days after the date of the change in ownership or the completion of new construction. A claim for exemption from supplemental assessment must be made on or before the 30th day following the notice of supplemental assessment sent by the county assessor. If a claim is filed after the 30-day period, a partial exemption is available.

4. What documents do I file with the assessor to request a Welfare or Veterans' Organization exemption from property taxes?

Claims are filed on the following forms: BOE-267: Claim for Welfare Exemption (First Filing), (claim form for initial request of welfare exemption for a specific property when the claimant is a new filing in the county or requesting exemption for a new location in the county) BOE-267-A: Claim for Welfare Exemption (Annual Filing), (claim form filed on an annual basis after initial "been met" finding. May be filed on properties that were granted exemption in the prior year) BOE-269-AH: Claim for Veterans' Organization Exemption, (claim form filed for request for Veterans' Organization Exemption) Supplemental affidavits are also required for certain property types: BOE-267-H: Welfare Exemption Supplemental Affidavit, Housing-Elderly or Handicapped Families, (claim form filed for properties used for housing for elderly or handicapped families) BOE-267-L: Welfare Exemption Supplemental Affidavit, Housing-Lower-Income Households, (claim form filed for properties used for low income households) BOE-267-L1: Welfare Exemption Supplemental Affidavit, Low-Income Housing Property of (Limited Partnership), (claim form filed for properties used for low income households owned by limited partnerships) BOE-267-R: Welfare Exemption Supplemental Affidavit, Rehabilitation-Living Quarters, (claim form filed for properties used for rehabilitation and associated living quarters)

5. What documents do I file with the BOE to request an Organizational Clearance Certificate?

Organizations that intend to claim the welfare or veterans' organization exemption and are not currently eligible for these exemptions in any county in the state (i.e., new to state) must file a claim form requesting the certificate (BOE-277, Claim for Organizational Clearance Certificate-Welfare Exemption, or BOE-279, Claim for Organizational Clearance Certificate-Veterans' Organization Exemption). Additional information that should be included with the claim (as indicated on the claim form) include the following organizational documents: Articles of incorporation and amendments (or equivalent formative document) Tax exemption letter Financial statements of organization Documentation supporting/describing the activities of the organization Other information (as requested from Board staff)

6. According to the Internal Revenue Service, my nonprofit organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization and, therefore, exempt from income taxes. Why must we file separately for a Welfare Exemption

No. The income tax exemption does not automatically confer property tax exemption to a nonprofit organization. Both ownership and use of the property drive the Welfare Exemption. Mere ownership of property by a nonprofit corporation does not satisfy the requirements for property tax exemption. The property must also be used exclusively for an exempt (religious, scientific, hospital, or charitable) purpose and activity. Certain uses of property will not qualify for exemption even though conducted by the nonprofit owner: Fundraising Unrelated business Allowing other unqualified individuals or organizations to use the property for private benefit

7. The assessor determined that the property was not eligible for the welfare or veterans' organization exemption. What is my recourse if I do not agree?

If you disagree with the assessor's determination of ineligibility for the welfare or veterans' organization exemption, you may seek a refund of property taxes paid by filing a claim for refund with the county board of supervisors. If the refund claim is denied, you may file a refund action in superior court.

8. Who Can Claim The Church Exemption?

The Church Exemption may be claimed on property that is owned, leased, or rented by a religious organization and used exclusively for religious worship services. (See Revenue and Taxation Code section 206.) The Church Exemption is the most restrictive of the three exemptions available to a church since the organization's property must be used solely for religious worship and other activities reasonably necessary for the accomplishment of the church's religious purposes. To apply for the Church Exemption, a claim form must be filed each year with the assessor of the county where the property is located. If a church owns and uses property and also allows another church to use that property, both churches must file Church Exemption claim forms. In the case of leased property, The church or religious organization leasing the property (lessee) may file a Church Exemption claim form, or The owner/lessor may file a Lessor's Exemption Claim form and have the user/lessee church complete the affidavit stating that the user/lessee church uses the property only for religious worship. The appropriate forms are available from the county assessor. They are BOE-262-AH, Church Exemption, and BOE-263, Lessor's Exemption Claim (if the property is leased). To receive the full 100 percent exemption for property owned or leased on the January 1 lien date, the claim must be filed by February 15. For example, to receive the exemption for fiscal year 2007-08, which runs from July 1, 2007, through June 30, 2008, the claim must be filed by February 15, 2007. The following links provide additional information on the Church Exemption.

9. Who Can Claim The Religious Exemption?

The Religious Exemption may be claimed on property owned by a religious organization and used exclusively for religious purposes. (See Revenue and Taxation Code section 207.) This includes religious worship and school purposes, including preschools, nursery schools, kindergartens, schools of less than collegiate grade, or schools of collegiate grade and less than collegiate grade. The exemption is also available if another church uses the property part time for religious worship and operates a school, provided that the owner church continues to conduct worship services on the property. To apply for the Religious Exemption, the church must file claim form BOE-267-S, Religious Exemption, with the county assessor where the property is located. The form is available from the county assessor. To receive the full 100 percent exemption for property owned or leased on the January 1 lien date, the claim must be filed by February 15. For example, to receive the exemption for fiscal year 2007-08, which runs from July 1, 2007, through June 30, 2008, the claim must be filed by February 15, 2007. You only need to apply one time for the Religious Exemption. Once it is granted, the exemption remains in effect until it is terminated or the property is no longer eligible.

10. What Is The Disabled Veteran Exemption And Who Can Qualify?

The Disabled Veterans' Exemption is available for qualified veterans to reduce their property tax liability. Along with the disability requirements, a qualified veteran is one that has been honorably discharged from one of the military services and served during one of the time periods listed in California Constitution Article XIII, section 3(o). See Veterans’ Exemption for a complete description of a qualified veteran. In order for property to qualify for the Disabled Veterans' Exemption, it must be used as the principal place of residence of the veteran or the unmarried surviving spouse of a qualified disabled veteran. One exception to this requirement occurs when the claimant is confined to a hospital or other care facility and the property would be that claimant's principal place of residence were it not for such confinement, provided that the residence is not rented or leased. The property may be owned by the veteran, the veteran's spouse, or the veteran and spouse jointly.

11. Can I Receive Both The Disabled Veterans Exemption and the Homeowners Exemption?

No. You may only receive either the Homeowners Exemption or Disabled Veterans. However, if two or more qualified veterans own a property in which they reside, each is entitled to the Disabled Veterans' Exemption to the extent of his or her interest.

12. What Is The Definition Of A Principle Place Of Residence?

For a property to be considered a principal place of residence for purposes of the Disabled Veterans' Exemption there is no statutory requirement that a veteran must reside in their primary residence for a particular amount of time to qualify for the exemption. In order to qualify for the Disabled Veterans' Exemption, the dwelling must be established as the owner's principal place of residence as of 12:01 a.m. on the lien date (January 1). If new to the property and not yet living at the property through a lien date, the exemption may be claimed by a qualified individual upon a change of ownership or completion of new construction on or after January 1.

13. What Is The Difference Between A Property Tax Exemption And An Exclusion?

Property Tax Exemption Actually Exempts All Or Part Of The Property Tax Owed. An Exclusion Prevents A Reappraisal Of The Property, But Does Not Exempt the Property From Any Property Taxes.

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Assessor - Disaster Relief

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1. My home was damaged by a fire. What do I do? Where do I start?

If your property has been damaged by a calamity, you need to file a disaster relief claim with the county assessor. This will allow your current property taxes to be reduced for that portion of the property damaged or destroyed. This reduction will be from the first of the month in which the damage occurred, and will remain in effect until the property is rebuilt or repaired. Some county assessors have the authority to reduce a property’s value for damage without a disaster relief claim. Please check with your county assessor’s office to verify whether a claim is required.

In addition, if your property has been substantially damaged or destroyed in a Governor-proclaimed disaster and you have either filed a disaster relief claim with the county assessor to reduce your taxes or have been granted disaster relief by the assessor, you may file a claim to postpone the next installment of property taxes that occurs immediately after the disaster. If you file a "property tax deferral claim" with the county assessor before the next property tax installment payment date, that payment will be postponed without penalty or interest until the county assessor has reassessed the property and you receive a corrected tax bill.

To qualify for deferral, for property receiving a homeowners’ exemption, "substantial disaster damage" means damage amounting to at least 10 percent of its fair market value or $10,000 whichever is less. For all other property, the damage must be at least 20 percent of value. However, tax deferral is not available where property taxes are paid through impound accounts.

2. My property and/or home were damaged and the Governor declared a disaster in my area. What type of relief is available?

If your property has been substantially damaged or destroyed in a Governor-proclaimed disaster, you may be eligible for a reinstatement of your home’s previous base year value. To be eligible, you must file a disaster relief claim with the county assessor to reduce your taxes and rebuild the property in a like or similar manner. Alternatively, you may choose to buy another comparable property and transfer your base year value to the new property. You will not be able to do both.

Can I buy another house in the same county and transfer the base year value of my damaged house to my new house?

Yes, section 69 provides for this relief to you under certain circumstances:

The damaged property must amount to more than 50 percent of its full cash value immediately prior to the disaster. This applies to any type of real property, not just residences.

The property must be transferred to a comparable replacement property, acquired or newly constructed, within the same county and within five years after the disaster.

Comparability is crucial – the replacement property must be similar in size, utility, and function to the property which it replaces.

The replacement property must not exceed 120 percent of the full cash value of the property damaged or destroyed. Any amount of the full cash value of the replacement property that exceeds 120 percent of the full cash value of the damaged property (immediately prior to the damage) shall be added to the adjusted base year value of the damaged property. The sum of these amounts shall become the replacement property’s replacement base year value.

Please contact your county assessor’s office for an application.

Can I buy another house in a different county and transfer the base year value of my damaged house to my new house?

Under section 69.3, a principal residence that was damaged in an area that was a Governor-proclaimed disaster that occurred on or after October 20, 1991 may have its base year value transferred to a replacement residence in a different county only if the county has adopted an ordinance that allows such taxable value transfers. As of June 7, 2018, there are 11 counties that have such an ordinance: Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Modoc, Orange, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, Sutter, and Ventura. The replacement residence must meet the following criteria:

• It must be purchased within three years of the disaster.
• Its market value must be of equal or lesser value than the market value of the damaged property immediately prior to the date of the disaster. Depending upon the year in which the replacement property is purchased, the market value of the damaged property is adjusted up to 115 percent when comparing with the replacement property.
• It must be eligible for the homeowners’ or disabled veterans’ exemption (your principal place of residence).
• Claims for this exclusion must be filed with the county assessor within three years of the purchase of the replacement property.

3. After my property is rebuilt or repaired following the damage, will my property taxes be increased over what they were before?

No. Property owners will retain their previous factored base year value if the house is rebuilt in a like or similar manner, regardless of the actual cost of construction. However, any new square footage or extras, such as additional baths, will be added to the base year value at its full market value.

4. Our home was damaged from a forest fire and we had to move out while it is being repaired. Are we still allowed the homeowner's exemption even though we have not returned to our house?

Yes. Temporary absence from a dwelling for repairs made necessary by a natural disaster will not result in the loss of your homeowner’s exemption as long as you have not established permanent housing elsewhere.

5. Our home was destroyed in a Governor-declared disaster, and we would like to move to another county. What counties accept a base year value transfer for Governor-declared disasters?

As of January 16, 2020, the following 13 counties have enacted ordinances that allow a base year value transfer for a principal residence that was substantially damaged or destroyed by a Governor-declared disaster:

• Contra Costa
• Glenn
• Los Angeles
• Modoc
• Orange
• San Diego
• San Francisco
• Santa Clara
• Solano
• Sonoma
• Sutter
• Ventura
• Yuba

6. After my property is rebuilt or repaired following the damage, will my property taxes be increased over what they were before if I do not increase the size of the improvements?

No. Property owners will retain their previous factored base year value if the house is rebuilt in a like or similar manner, regardless of the actual cost of construction. However, any new square footage or extras, such as additional baths, will be added to the Prop. 13 factored base year value at its full market value.

7. What if I rebuild, but there are some variances or differences (i.e. different floor plan; add a full bath; it now meets current building codes; etc.)? Will my assessment go up or stay the same?

Property owners will retain their factored base year value as long as the structure is rebuilt in a like or similar manner to bring it up to current building codes, regardless of the actual cost of construction.  However, any new square footage or extras such as additional baths, accessory dwelling units, etc., will be added to the Proposition 13 factored base year value at its full market value. The original property will not be reassessed unless there is a new construction event or a change of ownership on the property.

8. If I do add on square footage, can you tell me what value you are going to add to my assessment, or in fact, do I get reassessed and lose my Proposition 13 basis? How do you determine the value?

We cannot give you a value estimate prior to completion of construction.  You will keep your Proposition 13 basis on structures of record prior to the addition.  The costs and market approaches will be evaluated for the added square footage portion, and then reconciled by our appraiser for a reasonable fair market value conclusion.  A specific notice will be sent out prior to any tax bill.

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Clerk-Recorder

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1. What are the Clerk-Recorder's Office hours for recording in person?

We record Monday through Friday 8:30am -4:30pm, except legal holidays.  We do not close for lunch hour.

2. Where is the Clerk-Recorder’s Office located?

Our address is 825 Fifth Street, Eureka, CA  95501.  We are located on the 5^th Floor of the Humboldt County Courthouse.

3. What types of payment does the Clerk-Recorder’s office accept?

Checks or Cash only.

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Clerk-Recorder - Clerk Functions

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1. Who must file a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) Statement and why?

In the case of a business owned by an individual, a "fictitious business name" is any name that does not include the last name (surname) of the owner, or which implies additional owners (such as "Company," "and Company," "and Sons," "Associates," etc.)

Examples:

• "Will Smith Catering" is not a Fictitious Business Name.
• "Smith and Company Catering" is a Fictitious Business Name.

In the case of a corporation, limited liability company or limited partnership, a fictitious business name is any name other than the exact name that is on record with the Secretary of the State’s Office.

California law requires that FBN’s are filed at the County level; there is no State-wide registry or national registry.

2. Can I use a P.O. Box for an address?

A post office box does not satisfy the requirement of "street address" or "residence address."  However, a P.O. Box may be used in addition to the required address under “mailing address”.

3. How do I go about filing an FBN statement?

An FBN statement can be filed in person or by mail by completing an application. An application can be obtained in our office lobby or from our website.  https://humboldtgov.org/1991/Fictitious-Business-Name-Statement

4. Can I come in and file for someone else?

Yes, as long as you bring in a complete application signed (original signature) by the owner(s).

5. What happens if I don’t publish in an adjudicated newspaper of general publication?

Your filing will expire 30 from the date you filed and you will need to file again and pay the fees.

6. Can I make changes to my FBN after I file?

Yes, changes can be made to the filing such as business address, owner’s address or to add an additional owner(s) name(s).  However, these changes are considered a new filing and the same Fees and requirements for publishing apply.

7. Is this where I get my business license?

No, business license/permit is obtained through the City Hall where the business is located or the Tax Collector for county license/permit.

8. Does filing my Fictitious Business Name Statement prevent anyone else from using the business name I've registered?

No. The County Clerk is mandated to accept and file any fictitious business name statement completed correctly and submitted with the appropriate fee. The County Clerk does not verify or check the availability of fictitious business name prior to filing. It is the responsibility of the registrant(s) filing the statement to conduct his/her/their due diligence through all sources to ensure he/she/they is(are) not infringing on another’s rights. When a dispute arises out of the use of a fictitious business name, it is a legal matter that may be resolved through the judicial system and not handled by our office.

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Clerk-Recorder - Recorder Functions

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1. What types of documents can be recorded?

Any document affecting title to real property that is authorized or required by law to be recorded.  Including such documents as Grant Deeds, Deed of Trusts, Mechanic’s Liens, Tax Liens and Reconveyances.  The recording requirements are established by California Statutes.

2. How do I transfer Title?

Legal Advice Limitation:               

The Clerk/Recorder’s Office is prohibited from giving legal advice, cannot advise which forms are needed, nor advise how to fill them out.  It may be advisable to consult an Attorney, CPA or Title Agent because of the legal aspects involved in holding title to property or transferring title.

How to Transfer Title:

• Name changes to the tax records on real property cannot be made by request, only by documents recorded in the office of the Humboldt County Recorder.
• To change the name(s) on real property, the present owner(s) may execute a new deed conveying the property from the name(s) as they presently appear, to the name(s) that will be used to hold title.  Full names of all parties must be used.  The new deed should state how title will be held, i.e. joint tenants, tenant in common, etc.  The new deed must be acknowledged by a Notary Public.
• Deed forms may be obtained from stationary stores that carry legal forms or through various websites, including some Title company websites.  They are not available in this office.
• The deed must be recorded in the county where the property is located.  There is a fee for recordation.  Humboldt County Recorder Fee Schedule.
• A Preliminary Change of Ownership Form (PCOR) made available by the Humboldt County Assessor, should be completed, signed by the Grantee, and returned with the document at the time of recording.  If it is not completed and submitted, an additional fee of $20.00 will be required for recording.

3. Will the Recorder’s Office help me prepare my document?

The Recorder’s Office is prohibited by law from providing you with legal advice.  We can only provide you with the recording requirements for a particular document when presented for recording.  We recommend that you contact a legal advisor for assistance in preparing your document.

4. What is documentary transfer tax?

California Revenue and Taxation Code 11911(a) allows each county to impose a documentary transfer tax on realty transferred when the consideration or value of the property is greater than $100.00.  Transfer Tas is calculated at the rate of $0.55 per $500.00 of property value.  It is due at the time of recording unless a valid exemption under the Revenue and Taxation Code is provided (R & T 11911 – 11930)   Transfer Tax Table

5. How do I release a Lien?

The Recorder-County Clerk does not have the authority to release a lien without a properly signed Release of Lien form. A Release of Lien form can be obtained by contacting the party/entity who issued the lien.

6. What does the Recorder’s office mean by “document is not legible?”

Statute requires that the document be photographically reproducible. This includes all portions of the documents including areas completed by pen, signatures, seals and all Exhibits including maps and charts.

Type must be complete. No chipped type will be accepted.

Maps, diagrams and pictures are strongly discouraged. Scanning is done in black and white therefore colored images/documents often lose their detail when imaged, and would therefore not be accepted.

7. What is a Conformed Copy?

A conformed copy is an exact photocopy of the completed document, made by the customer and presented to the examiner at the time of the recording.

For a fee, the examiner will affix the recording information, which includes the document number and date of recording on the copy to be conformed. If the document is being submitted via mail, a self-addressed stamped envelope is required.

8. How do I find out what has been recorded on a particular property?

• The Clerk/Recorder’s office does not provide searches of our records: however, our lobby is open to the public 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, except legal holidays.
• Lobby computers contain an Index of Official Public Records recorded from 1979 to the present.
• Search index by owner last name first then first name, no punctuation.
• Documents recorded prior to 1979 are indexed in book volumes which can be examined in our office at no cost.
• Surveys, Tract Maps and Parcel Maps are also available for viewing and purchase ($7.00 for the first page, $5.00 each additional page)
• Recorded Document copies are $2.00 for the first page, $1.00 each additional page.
• Request Copies from our Copy Counter. 

9. How do I obtain a copy of a document?

• Request Copies, in person, from our Copy Counter.
• To request a copy, you must provide the Recording Information, including Book & Page or Instrument number and the date of Recording, as well as the type of document.
• If you do not know the Recording Information, searches may be done in the Clerk/Recorder’s office on the computers located in our lobby.  The lobby is open from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, except legal holidays.

10. How can I search the Official Records online?

Yes, our Self Service Web is available to search the index from 1979 to present at https://humboldtgov.org/1992/Search-Self-Service-Web

11. What happens to my document after it is recorded?

The Recorder’s Office is required to make a permanent record of all documents.  All documents are scanned into the computer system for immediate viewing the day after recording.  Copies are also stored on microfilm for archival purposes.

Once the images on the computer & microfilm have been checked for accuracy, the originals are returned to the requester in approximately two to three weeks.

12. May I use an INFORMATIONAL ONLY Death Certificate as an attachment on my Affidavit of Death recording?

YES, "INFORMATIONAL, NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO ESTABLISH IDENTITY” on the Death Certificate is recordable.  
Documents stamped “For Veterans Use ONLY” are NOT Recordable.

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Clerk-Recorder - Vital Records

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1. Who can order a Certified Copy of a Vital Record? (Who is an authorized Party?)

The new law describes an authorized person as 1 of the following:

The registrant themselves or a parent or legal guardian of the registrant.

A party entitled to receive the record as a result of a court order (court order must be provided), or an attorney or a licensed adoption agency seeking the birth record to comply with the requirements of Sections 3140 or 7603 of the Family Code.

A member of a law enforcement agency or a representative of another governmental agency, as provided by law, who is conducting official business.

A child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse, or domestic partner of the registrant.

An attorney representing the registrant or the registrant’s estate, or any person or agency empowered by statute or appointed by a court to act on behalf of the registrant or the registrant’s estate.

2. How can I get a copy of a Vital Record if I am NOT an authorized Party?

Effective July 1, 2003, the California Health and Safety Code Section 103526 will permit only authorized individuals to receive certified copies of birth records. Those who are not authorized by law to receive a full certified copy may request a certified copy marked "INFORMATIONAL, NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO ESTABLISH IDENTITY."

3. Does my partner have to be present when buying the marriage license?

Yes.  Both parties to the marriage must appear in person with current, valid i.d.

4. Can we walk in and have a ceremony?

No.  Marriage ceremonies must be scheduled twenty-four hours in advance.  Services are performed Monday through Thursday, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

5. Initially, I wanted to list a name change pursuant to the Name Equality Act of 2007 but have changed my mind. Can I correct this information?

No.  An amendment to the new name fields may only be issued to correct clerical errors, and that amendment must be signed by one of the parties to the marriage and the county clerk or his or her deputy.  Any other changes require that a new marriage license be purchased.

6. I was born in another county (or state). Can I purchase a certified copy of my birth record in Humboldt County?

No.  You must request either from the state or county of birth.

7. Can my birth certificate be e-mailed to me?

No.  Birth certificates are only issued on official security paper.  Photocopies or e-versions of birth certificates are not certified copies.

8. What is the difference between a certified copy and a certified informational copy?

A certified copy can be used to establish the identity of the person named on the certificate, whereas a certified informational copy cannot be used to establish identity.  Persons who are not eligible to receive a certified copy can receive a certified informational copy.  Both types of documents are certified copies of the original document on file with Humboldt County Recorder.

9. Does the sworn statement need to be notarized?

If you are requesting a certified copy of a record via mail, you will need to provide a sworn statement, and have it notarized.  If you are only requesting a certified informational copy, then you will not need to provide a sworn statement.  If you choose to go to the Humboldt County Recorder to apply in person, you will also not need to supply a notarized sworn statement.

10. I currently live in a foreign country and need to apply for an authorized copy of a vital record. How can I get the sworn statement notarized?

You may seek notarization from one of the following options:

An Ambassador, Minister, Consul, Vice Consul or Consular Agent of the United States, or from a Judge of a Court of record having a seal in a foreign country; or

A foreign notary, with an apostille attached for the foreign notarization.

11. Will I receive a refund for my request if no record is found by your office?

If the Humboldt County Recorder’s Office cannot locate the record based on the information you provide, California Health and Safety Code requires that we retain the search fee and issue a Certificate of No Public Record (CNPR).  A CNPR is a certified document that is issued by the Humboldt County Recorder, stating that no record could be located with the information provided on an application.

12. I ordered my birth certificate from a private third party. Can I get my money refunded?

No, you will need to contact that third party directly.

13. How do I get my birth certificate if I was born overseas but to U.S. citizens?

You will need to contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs for more information.   They can be found on-line at Travel.State.Gov

14. I am homeless and do not have the funds to obtain a birth certificate. Is there any assistance offered to homeless individuals?

Yes.  As of July 1, 2015, California law allows qualified homeless individuals to receive a copy of their birth record without a fee.  Applicants must meet the requirements and complete an affidavit to receive a free copy of a birth record. 

For more information about this law, see Assembly Bill (AB) 1733.

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Coroner

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1. Why is the Coroner involved?

California State Law empowers the Coroner to investigate the circumstances, manner, and cause of all sudden, violent or unexpected deaths. We also investigate when a decedent has not been seen by a physician within 20 days prior to death, or when a death occurs within 24 hours of the decedent entering the hospital.

2. Where will my relative/friend be taken?

Usually, he or she will be taken to the Coroner's Office located in the Clark Complex, 3012 I Street, Eureka, California.

3. Why is my family member/friend being taken to the Coroner's Office

The Investigation may require a physical examination of the decedent's body (autopsy).

4. What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is an examination of a body after death using surgical techniques. An autopsy may be only an external examination, or it may be comprehensive. Sometimes, an autopsy is limited to one organ system and sometimes all organ systems are examined.

5. Will an autopsy be performed?

The Coroner or his representative will decide if an autopsy is necessary to establish the manner and cause of death. It may be possible to determine the cause of death without an autopsy. Sometimes an autopsy is required by law. Often an autopsy is necessary because the decedent's physician has questions about the decedent's medical problems and how those problems caused death.

6. Who will perform the autopsy?

It is performed by a medical doctor, usually a Pathologist, who is specifically trained in this type of procedure.

7. Will the autopsy affect funeral arrangements?

No. An autopsy should not in any way affect the final arrangements you choose. An autopsy does not change whether the decedent will be viewable for visitation. Your funeral director will guide you.

8. How will an autopsy benefit me or my family?

An autopsy may find inheritable medical problems and help other family members through early diagnosis and treatment. It may help with regard to family planning. An autopsy may discover an infectious disease, such as tuberculosis, which requires early treatment for the decedent's family and close contacts. It may also provide the evidence necessary for the settling of insurance claims or death benefits. Information learned through an autopsy of one decedent may help save the lives of others with similar conditions.

9. How long will it take before my relative/friend is released from the Coroner's Office?

Generally, it should not take more than two to three days. Your funeral director will coordinate this on your behalf. We will do our best to accommodate any special need to release the decedent sooner.

10. Could there be a religious conflict?

Religious decisions are always very personal. You may wish to discuss the issues with relatives and your religious or spiritual advisor. Cultures are very diverse in their practices and beliefs. Please inform the Coroner's Office immediately of any special needs or concerns.

11. What about tissue/organ donation?

With the consent of next of kin, certain types of tissues may be donated, thereby helping others. The Coroner's Investigator who has contacted you can provide additional information about this progress. Donation of tissues must be arranged as soon as possible after death.

12. Will the Coroner charge me?

The Coroner is authorized to charge certain fees. These fees help defer the cost by providing services. The fees are minimal in nature and have been fixed by the County Board of Supervisors.

13. Is it necessary for me to come to the Coroner's Office to identify the body?

No. In almost all cases visual identification is not required. Should it become necessary for you to come in or for you to provide records, such as dental x-rays, you will be contacted.

14. Is viewing or visitation allowed?

No. The Coroner's Office is not designated to accommodate viewing. Arrangements can be made at the mortuary for viewing or visitation. 

15. When will a death certificate be available?

A death certificate is issued after the investigation is completed. Occasionally, extensive testing is required. An interim death certificate may be issued which allows interment. A final death certificate will be issued following completion of any special training. 

16. Where can I obtain a death certificate?

Death Certificates are filed with the Health Department by the Funeral Director. Should you require certified copies, they can be ordered through the mortuary or directly from the Humboldt County Health Department, Department of Vital Statistics, 529 I Street, Eureka, CA 95501. Telephone number (707) 268-2185.

17. Will a Coroner's report be available?

Yes. You may obtain a copy by calling our office at telephone (707) 445-7242, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There may be a fee. Homicide reports are not released. 

18. How can personal possessions be claimed?

Personal possessions in the custody of the Coroner may be claimed by the legal next of kin. To avoid any inconvenience to you, call the Coroner's Office before coming in. You will be informed of any documents needed and of any other requirements. Property is available from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays.

19. What items will not be released?

Contraband, such as illegal drugs or weapons will not be released. Contaminated clothing or other articles which may present a health hazard shall be destroyed for the safety of all persons involved. Some items may be retained as evidence of a crime.

20. I need to enter my relative/friends residence, but it is sealed. What can I do?

If there is a seal on the residence, either verbal or physical, you need permission to break that seal. It is a misdemeanor to break a "Coroner's Seal" without permission of the Coroner. A Coroner's seal is placed to protect the decedent's property. It is not intended to deprive the legal heir of their rights.

21. What should I do now?

Notify other kin and friends of the deceased. If the deceased has a Will, refer to it for potential instructions. Wills are often kept in safe-deposit boxes, at home in a safe place, or at the office of the attorney who prepared the will.

Select a funeral home. Call and make an appointment to speak with a funeral director. Inform the funeral director that the death is being handled by the Coroner's Office.

22. Who is the legal next of kin?

A spouse is the closest next of kin. Second in line are the children of the deceased, who are equally related. Third in line are the parents of the deceased, equally. Siblings of the deceased are fourth in the order of kinship, all equally, without regard to the order of their birth. The next of kin are legally and financially responsible for the interment of the deceased. By law, the costs of interment take priority over all of the decedent's pending bills.

23. My relative/friend was in the military. Who can I contact for information?

Persons who have served in the Armed Forces, were honorably discharged, and are in receipt of monthly payments, are entitled to a Veteran's benefit. For information, contact the Humboldt County Veteran's Service Office, Humboldt County Courthouse, Room 310, 825 Fifth Street, Eureka, CA 95501. Phone number (707) 445-7341. For information on Military, Veterans, or Social Security Benefits, contact your funeral director.

24. What can I do if there are no funds for burial?

If neither the decedent nor the next of kin have sufficient funds for interment, an application may be made for indigent disposition. In these circumstances, proof of indigence is required. Next of kin should first discuss this with the funeral director at the mortuary they have chosen. The mortuary will provide information regarding application for Indigent Disposition. 

25. How can the Public Administrator benefit me or my family?

It can, at your request, relieve the heirs of the stress and turmoil of administering the estate. It assures that the wishes of the decedent are carried out in a legal and expeditious manner. It protects the rights of the heirs and often removes much of the emotional involvement by providing a neutral party.

The use of the Public Administrator often saves time and money. The Public Administrator is bonded. This is a public office, and as such, is not in the business to make money, but rather provide a service for those who need it.

26. What will the Public Administrator cost?

There are fees charged by the Public Administrator which are set by law. They vary depending on the value of the estate. Ordinarily, the minimum fee is $1,000, and the maximum fee is equal to 4% of the value of the estate. In addition, a 1/4% bond fee is charged.

These fees and all other costs or bills against the estate are paid by the Public Administrator from estate assets. Neither you nor the family should have out of pocket expenses.

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County Administrative Office

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1. What does the County Administrative Office do?

The County Administrative Office administers and carries out the rules and regulations implemented by the Board of Supervisors. The office is organized around a team concept, and each has a different function.

• Communications: Manages the county’s utilities, radio, and telephone systems, and cable television franchises
• Information Technology: Provides network and computer support services for the County of Humboldt government departments
• Purchasing: Manages vendors, maintain supplies to enable county departments to provide services, purchase at lowest cost consistent with quality and quantity required, surplus sales
• Economic Development: Brings about comprehensive, community-centered economic development that improves the lives of low-income people
• Revenue Recovery: collects court fines as directed by the Superior Court of California, outstanding fees due to the county in association to court cases, Victim Restitution, and other delinquent fees owed to various county departments
• Management and Budget: assists the Board of Supervisors in development and implementation of policies, recommends the annual budget and legislative platforms to the board for adoption, compiles the fee schedule, and assists in the administration and operation of county departments by monitoring the use of financial and human resources

2. How do I make requests for records under the California Public Records Act?

All requests for records in the possession of Humboldt County's administrative offices and departments should be directed to the County Administrative Office or the individual department that holds the requested records. It is preferred but not required that such requests be submitted via the County's website, or in writing and forwarded by regular mail, email, fax, or hand-delivery and state that the request is being made pursuant to the California Public Records Act (CPRA). Telephonic and in-person verbal requests will be accepted only during regular county office business hours Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and should be directed to the County Administrative Office or the head of an individual department.

Requests for records should be as specific as possible so as to clearly define or identify the exact records to which access is sought. In most cases, the county will provide electronic copies or photocopies of the requested records to the requesting party. In some cases depending on the volume or nature of the records, arrangements will be made for supervised access to the requested records.

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County Counsel

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1. Does the County Counsel give legal advice to members of the public?

No. The County Counsel, by statute, is the lawyer for the Board of Supervisors, elected and appointed department officials, and County employees in their official capacity of County government. The County Counsel may not give legal advice to members of the public.

2. I have suffered personal injury or property damage, which I believe was caused by the County or one of its employees. How do I go about collecting for my damages?

The process of collecting damages from the County is started by filing a claim with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, located at

825 Fifth St.
Room 111
Eureka, California 95501.

The law governing claims against the public entities is complex and has short deadlines. You may need to seek the services of an attorney for your own protection. In any event, you should present your claim without delay. For additional information, please refer to Government Code Section 910.

3. Can I serve a lawsuit against the County by serving the County Counsel?

No. Service of process on the County may only be accomplished by serving the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, whose office is located at Humboldt County Courthouse

825 Fifth St.

Room 111

Eureka, California 95501

4. How can I view County records?

County records are maintained by individual departments. Additional information can be found on the Public Records page.

5. Can I speak with the Interim County Counsel, Scott Miles, as his name is listed at the top of the paperwork I received?

No. Scott A. Miles is the Interim County Counsel and his name appears on all documents filed by anyone within the office. The person most familiar with your case is usually the person who signed the document. That person’s name appears beneath Mr. Miles' name at the top of the document, and beneath the signature itself. If you believe you must speak with someone regarding your matter, that is the person to whom you should speak with first.

6. I would like a copy of the Humboldt County Code. Can I get it from the County Counsel’s Office?

No. The County Code is available on the County’s website at:  https://humboldt.county.codes/

Copies of ordinances are available for a fee at the Humboldt County Clerk of the Board, 825 Fifth Street, Room 111, Eureka, CA.

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DCSS - Child Support Services

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1. Where are you located and how can I contact you?

You can call us at 866-901-3212 or email us. We are located at the following address: 2420 6th St. Eureka, CA 95501

2. How do I make a payment?

There are many ways to make Child Support Payments. Online, by phone, by mail, in the office, or through PayNearMe or MoneyGram. For instructions on each of these or to make a payment online go to the California State Disbursement Unit website.

Child Support Payment Options

3. How do I check payments sent to me?

To see your account balance or payments sent to you, access your online account through Customer Connect.  If you do not know your Participant ID Number, please call 1-866-223-5955 to get it.

Customer Connect

4. Who can open a child support case?

Anyone who is the legal parent or guardian of a child where one or both of the parents does not live in the home with the child can request services to establish and enforce Paternity, Child Support and Medical Support for the child.  For more information, or to open a case in Humboldt or Trinity County, go to Open A Child Support Case.

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DHHS - CalFresh Benefits Program

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1. What do I need to apply?

In order to apply, all we need is an application with your name, address and a valid signature. Anything else needed to determine eligibility will be reviewed and requested at your interview.

2. I need my benefits right away, do you have emergency CalFresh benefits?

You may receive CalFresh benefits within three days of your application date if you qualify for what is called “expedited service.” A household qualifies for expedited service if it has less than $150 in monthly income and less than $100 in liquid resources (cash, savings or checking) OR has housing costs that are more than its monthly income and liquid resources OR is a migrant or seasonal farm worker who is destitute. Every case is reviewed for expedited services, and it is always OK to ask to have your case reviewed for expedited service processing with an Eligibility Specialist.

3. Does everyone living in my home have to get CalFresh benefits?

If you are living with other people who are not part of your immediate family, you can apply for just yourself, your family, and the others who purchase and prepare food with you. Youth up to the age of 22 cannot be considered a separate household if they live with their parents.

4. Does everyone in my home have to be a U.S. citizen to get CalFresh benefits?

United States citizens and some foreign nationals admitted for permanent residency may qualify for CalFresh benefits. Those in the country illegally do not qualify, but are not reported to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

5. Is there a limit on the amount of property I can own and still get CalFresh benefits?

At this time California doesn’t consider property for CalFresh eligibility.

6. What do I have to do to maintain eligibility?

A report will be mailed to you which must be completed and returned. If your circumstances change, your CalFresh benefits may also change based on the reported income, housing costs and number of people in the household. You will be notified of any change in a letter if your benefit amount changes.

7. What if I lose my electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card?

Your EBT card can be replaced at the main Social Services Office at:
929 Koster St.
Eureka, CA 95501

Or, you can order a new card by calling Customer Service at 877-328-9677.

8. Can I sell or trade my CalFresh benefits or my electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card?

It is illegal to sell the benefits on your EBT card or exchange those benefits for cash or any other item.

9. What if I disagree with an action taken by the county?

You have the right to appeal any decision made by the county, including the benefit amount, the way it was computed, and any action to discontinue your benefits. Instructions for filing an appeal can be found on the back of any notice of action you receive, or you can call 800-952-5253 (TDD: 800-952-8349).

10. How do I get my CalFresh benefits?

Your benefits will be available every month on a plastic electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card. Your card will be automatically reloaded during each month of eligibility.

You may pick up your EBT card at the CalFresh office where you will select a code (Personal Identification Number, or PIN.)

With the EBT card and your secret code, you will be able to access your CalFresh benefits at any grocery store or farmers market that has a card reader with the Quest logo.

11. What will happen when I apply?

You may be given an appointment to return on another day to complete your application process or to complete a phone interview. Make sure you sign and date the application form during your 1st visit to the office. This will determine the day your benefits will begin.

12. Will I be fingerprinted?

Fingerprinting is no longer necessary when applying for CalFresh.

13. How long will it take to process my application?

The county has a maximum of 30 days to process your application. If you have a food emergency, you may request a faster response.

14. How will I know if my application has been approved?

You will be notified by mail telling you what your monthly benefits will be, or you can call toll free at 877-410-8809.

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DHHS - Local Agency Management Program (LAMP)

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1. What is a LAMP and why is Humboldt County writing one?

A Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) describes a jurisdiction’s program for managing onsite wastewater (septic) treatment systems. Humboldt County is writing one to comply with the state mandate contained in the Water Quality Control Policy for Siting, Design, Operation, and Maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS Policy). Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Policy

2. Will there be many changes from the way the county currently manages onsite wastewater systems?

This will ultimately depend on the review and recommendations of the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (NCRWQCB ) but for the most part our draft LAMP proposes to continue the same site evaluation, design and permitting requirements that are currently in practice in Humboldt. We are mandated to give extra protection to the waters of these areas: Trinidad State Beach, Luffenhholtz Beach, Moonstone Beach and Clam Beach. The draft proposal to meet this mandate is the Tier 3 Advanced Protection Management Program for Impaired Areas and begins on page 13 of the LAMP.

3. What is the timeline for submittal to NCRWQCB and what opportunities for public comment have there been/will there be?

The Humboldt County Department of Health & Human Services, Division of Environmental Health (DEH) must submit its final LAMP to the NCRWQCB by May 13, 2016.

DEH appeared before the Board of Supervisors on Oct. 7, 2014 and on Dec. 8, 2015 with information on this project and will appear before the Board again in mid April 2016. DEH held two informational meetings in spring of 2015 at which contact information was obtained for people who were interested to be kept abreast of the project. DEH has communicated with these people throughout the project.

A summary of the project has been on the Land Use webpage since August 2015 with information on how to submit questions and comments.

DEH will be taking public comment through March 5, 2016.

A further opportunity for public comment will be available when the NCRWQCB reveals its determination of Humboldt County’s LAMP to the State Water Resources Control Board.

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DHHS - Ocean Monitoring Program

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1. When is a beach placed on warning status?

If a water sample fails to meet 1 or more of the health standards, a warning status for the beach will be issued.

Warning signs stating "Warning! Ocean Water Contact May Cause Illness! Bacteria Levels Exceed Health Standards" will be posted at the beach.

Health standards are exceeded when:

• Total coliform exceeds 10,000 Most Probable Number (MPN)*
• Fecal coliform exceeds 400 MPN
• Enterococcus exceeds 104 MPN
• Fecal coliform:total coliform ratio exceeds 0.1, and the total coliform count exceeds 1,000 MPN

When a beach is listed under warning status, swimmers should stay a minimum of 50 yards away from creek mouths.

*Most Probable Number: bacterial count per 100 milliliters of water

2. When is a beach closed?

A beach will be closed at the discretion of the County Health Officer if there is an imminent public health threat such as a known discharge of pollutants. Closed signs stating "KEEP OUT. Sewage Contaminated Water. Contact with Water May Cause Illness" will be posted at the beach.

When a beach is listed under closed status, stay at least 1/4 mile (440 yards) away from both sides of the creek mouth.

3. What exactly are total coliform, fecal coliform, and enterococcus?

Total coliform consist of a large group of bacteria that may inhabit the intestinal tracts of both humans and animals. They are also found naturally in water, soils, and vegetation.

Fecal coliform are a subgroup of total coliform bacteria. Their presence is highly correlated with fecal contamination from warm-blooded animals including humans. Water quality testing in Humboldt County indicates that Escherichia coli, a species of fecal coliform, comprises essentially all of the fecal coliform in this region. E Coli also has a higher degree of association with outbreaks of certain diseases than fecal coliform. Thus, in Humboldt County we are testing only for E Coli rather than fecal coliform.

Enterococcus, sometimes referred to as fecal streptococcus, is also an intestinal bacterium used to indicate fecal contamination from mammals and birds.

4. How does Humboldt County monitor ocean water quality?

From April through October, the 5 beaches between McKinleyville and Trinidad are monitored weekly for 3 types of indicator bacteria. Samples are collected within the creek mouth in ankle to knee-deep surf zone water

Sampling is usually performed on Tuesdays with results available to the public on this website 2 days later. Resamples of beaches that do not meet state bacteriological standards are taken on Thursdays.

5. What are indicator bacteria?

Microorganisms are a natural component of the environment, and they also inhabit the intestinal tracts of birds and mammals. When these bacteria are released into the environment, there is a chance that they may cause illnesses in people who come in contact with contaminated water.

Indicator bacteria are selected groups of microorganisms that are found to indicate the likelihood of the presence of disease-causing pathogens. It is difficult to detect every pathogenic organism in the water due to the wide array of the microbes in the natural environment.

As a solution, indicator organisms are used because they are easy to detect. It is important to realize that indicator bacteria only suggest the presence of disease-causing organisms, and generally are not pathogenic themselves. The indicator bacteria currently used by the state health standards are total coliform, fecal coliform, and enterococcus.

6. Does the health risk to swimmers increase as indicator bacterial levels increase?

Swimming in water with sewage contamination or elevated bacterial levels may increase the risk of contracting illnesses such as skin rashes, diarrhea, and ear infections.

Past studies show that as the indicator bacteria levels increase, the swimming-associated illness rate increases. Several studies have established a statistically significant relationship between increasing bacterial levels and increased rates of illness.

7. How do I protect myself from illness-causing bacteria in the ocean?

When a beach is listed under warning status, swimmers should stay a minimum of 50 yards away from creek mouths and storm drains. When a beach is listed under closed status, stay at least 1/4 mile (440 yards) away from both sides of the creek mouths and storm drains.

Also please remember to do the following at all times:

• Avoid swallowing creek or ocean water.
• Do not swim in the ocean within 3 days of a rainfall event.
• Rinse off thoroughly (including mouth, nose, and ears) as soon as possible after swimming in the ocean.
• Stay out of discolored water.
• Swim in areas up-current of creek mouths and storm drains.
• Watch for warning signs.

8. How can I find out about the weekly sampling results?

The current ocean water sample results are available to the public on this website.

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DHHS - Reporting Child Abuse

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1. How do I know when to report child abuse?

Reporting should be done when a person either knows or suspects that a child has been or is in danger of abuse or neglect. Hard proof is not needed to make a report. However, reports must be made in good faith. Use common sense. A report of child abuse is serious and may have a lifelong impact on the child and his or her family.

Never make a false or malicious report. If you are in doubt at all about whether to report a particular situation, telephone the Child Welfare Services Division, and discuss the situation.

2. How does child abuse get reported?

A report is made by telephoning the local child protective agency and talking with them about the child’s situation. A child protective agency is either the county social services department or the local law enforcement agency (police or sheriff)

Social services departments provide child welfare services in California. Except for situations involving allegations of general neglect, child protective agencies are required to cross-report to each other.

Cross-reporting means that the different agencies inform each other of reports so that each agency can take appropriate steps to respond.

“General neglect” means the negligent failure of a person to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision for a child under that person’s care or supervision for a child under that person’s care or custody. General neglect is handled only by the social services department.

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District Attorney

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1. How do I report a crime?

All crime reports should be directed to the law enforcement agency in the city or county where the crime occurred. The District Attorney's Office does not take crime reports.

2. How do I get a copy of a police report?

Victims of crime can obtain police reports from the law enforcement agency that created the report.

3. Who decides what charges to file, and how do they make that decision?

Depending on the seriousness of the charges, the District Attorney or deputy district attorneys evaluate cases submitted to their Office by law enforcement agencies. Prosecutors commonly collaborate on the evaluation of charges. They review the evidence in lights of current laws to determine what criminal charges can be filed and what charges would serve the goal of achieving justice.

4. What happens at the arraignment, preliminary hearing, and pre-trial court dates?

The arraignment is a hearing in court in which the District Attorney charges a defendant with a specific offenses. The defendant receives a copy of the charges (in a document called a "complaint") and is informed of their constitutional rights. The defendant enters a plea of guilty or not guilty at this hearing.

The preliminary hearing is a hearing in court where both the District Attorney and the defense can present evidence, and a judge decides if the evidence adequately supports requiring the defendant to stand trial. A preliminary hearing is not a trial and does not involve a jury.

A pre-trial conference provides the opportunity for the prosecution and the defense to discuss the status of a case with the judge. Pre-trial conferences can result in plea agreements or the setting of a trial date.

5. How can I find out where someone is incarcerated?

You can determine if someone is an inmate at the Humboldt County jail in three ways:

1. Use Vinelink;
2. Check jail reports at the Humboldt County Sheriff's Department by clicking HERE;
3.  Call the Humboldt County Correctional Facility at 707-441-5159.

6. I want to file a complaint about a police officer or sheriff's deputy, what do I do?

You should report the matter to the officer's employing agency. Law enforcement agencies are required by law to receive complaints. Investigate the matter and respond back to the complaining party.

7. What if I have a question that is not answered in your FAQs?

Call 707-445-7411 to speak with a receptionist. But please be aware that we cannot give legal advice on legal issues.

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District Attorney - Child Abuse Services Team (CAST)

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1. What is a forensic interview?

According to the National Children's Alliance, "The purpose of a forensic interview is to obtain information from a child about abuse allegations that will support accurate and fair decision making by those within the criminal justice, child protection, and service delivery systems. Forensic interviews are conducted in a manner that is developmentally and culturally sensitive, unbiased, fact-finding, and legally sound.

2. How much are CAST services?

Humboldt County taxpayers support CAST; CAST does not change individuals or families.

3. I suspect child abuse has occurred. Who can I talk to?

Please call the Humboldt County Child Welfare Crisis Reporting Line: 707-445-6180.

4. Do you have any opportunities available for volunteers/interns?

Thank you for your interest! Unfortunately, CAST does not utilize volunteers or interns at this time. However, The Victim Witness Assistance Program does accept volunteers, for more information, please visit the website HERE . 

5. Do you have any job opportunities available?

The agencies involved assign people to CAST. If you work for an agency involved with CAST, talk to your supervisor about a CAST appointment.

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District Attorney - Criminal

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

Yes, please call 707-445-7411 and we can provide that information.

2. I am a defendant in a case, and I can't seem to get in touch with my lawyer. Can I speak to your office?

A code of ethics which prevents them from directly speaking to a person who is represented by an attorney. Therefore, any questions you have about your case must be answered by your own lawyer.

3. Can the District Attorney's Office help me clear up a felony warrant I have against me?

State law and California State Bar rules prohibit the District Attorney's Office from providing legal assistance or advice to a defendant. You may retain a private defense attorney to assist you, or alternatively, the Public Defender (707-445-7634) provides legal assistance to individuals charged with a crime in state court who are financially unable to retain private counsel.

4. How do I go about getting my gun or property returned?

Please contact your attorney to address this question.

5. How can I have my criminal record expunged?

The answer depends on the crime and the sentence imposed by the judge. Please contact your attorney to address this question. The District Attorney's Office does not initiate or handle expungement requests.

6. I am seeking a pardon from the Governor and am required to notify the District Attorney's Office of my request. To whom and where do I mail my notice?

Please mail your notice to the following address:

Humboldt County District Attorney

ATTN: Request for Executive Clemency

825 5th Street, Fourth Floor

Eureka, CA 95501

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District Attorney - Fraud

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1. I think I may be the victim of real estate fraud; what services are available to me?

Call the law enforcement agency where the potential crime occurred.

2. How do I verify if a business is operating legitimately or if it has been the subject of complaints?

The Better Business Bureau provides information about businesses and consumer complaints.

3. I think I've been cheated by a tradesman/shopkeeper, or other person who provides labor or services. Can the District Attorney's Office help me?

Contact the fraud unit by calling 707-445-7411.

4. My business received a bad check, what can I do?

Report the crime to the law enforcement agency where the crime occurred.

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District Attorney - Victim Witness Assistance

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1. I was the victim of a crime. What services are available to me?

Our Victim Witness Unit offers a variety of services to victims of crime, including: attending court with you; explaining the court process; informing you about court dates, times and outcomes; providing information on community resources; and initiating a victim-of-crime claim.  We recognize that each person’s needs are different, this is not a complete list of possible services.  Call 707-441-7411 to ask about the services available to you.

2. I was the victim of a crime. Can you tell me the name of the defendant and the defendant's next court date?

If the case has been submitted to our Office by law enforcement and charges have been filed, we can provide you with the name of the defendant and the next court date. To obtain this information, please call 707-445-7411.

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

All criminal complaints are prosecuted on behalf of the People of the State of California. Only the prosecutor can issue or dismiss charges. However, the District Attorney's Office will always take the wishes of the victim into account. Please contact the District Attorney's Office if as a victim you have an opinion on the prosecution of your case that the District Attorney's Office does not already know about.

4. I am the victim of domestic violence and want to make a report. How do I do this?

Please contact the law enforcement agency where the crime occurred. That agency is responsible for investigating domestic violence cases.

5. I am the victim of crime and want a restraining order to keep a person away from me. How do I do this?

Our office works with victims and witnesses in obtaining criminal protective orders after a criminal case has been filed. If a case is presented and filed, the assigned prosecutor can request a criminal protective order in court. Please call 707-445-7411 to determine if a protective order may be appropriate in your matter.

6. The judge ordered the defendant to pay restitution to me but I have not received anything. Who can help me?

For defendants on informal court supervised probation (generally in a misdemeanor case), restitution is usually paid through the Department of Revenue Recovery (707-476-2398). If the defendant is on formal probation (as in almost all felony cases), you may contact the assigned probation officer by calling the Humboldt County Probation Department at 707-445-7401.

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Elections & Voter Registration

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1. Where is the Office of Elections located?

The Humboldt County Office of Elections is located at 2426 6th Street, in Eureka, at the Humboldt Plaza by Hwy 101. Other County departments located on-site include Department of Health & Human Services and Department of Child Support Services.

The Office of Elections is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The office is closed for County holidays. Our main phone number is 707-445-7481. Please also visit us online at www.humboldtgov.org/elections.

2. How do I register to vote?

Registering to vote is easy. Simply complete and submit a voter registration affidavit 15 days prior to the election in which you want to vote. There are three ways to complete and submit a voter registration affidavit:
1. Visit the Secretary of State website at www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voter-registration and follow the step-by-step instructions provided.
2. Visit the Office of Elections at 2426 6th Street, in Eureka and complete a hard-copy voter registration affidavit in person.
3. Call the Office of Elections at 707-445-7481 and request a voter registration affidavit be mailed to you for completion and return to our office.

For additional information, view the Voter Registration webpage.

3. How can I vote using a vote-by-mail ballot?

Any registered voter in California is eligible to vote a vote-by-mail (VBM) ballot. for the upcoming election (link is available 29 days prior to an election).

If you would like to become a permanent vote-by-mail voter for all future elections, your request must be made in writing. Download and print a permanent vote-by-mail ballot request form (PDF).

4. What does the Secretary of State do?

The Secretary of State is California's chief elections official. He (or she) is responsible for certifying elections systems, gathering information from the state's 58 counties, and dealing with statewide and legislative candidates among other duties.

It is important to note that while the Secretary of State is responsible for state election responsibilities, each county has its own elections official either appointed by the Board of Supervisors or elected by the voters of the county. The local elections official does not take orders from the Secretary of State, but answers directly to the local voters and Board of Supervisors.

For more information about the Secretary of State, visit the official website.

5. How does a recall work?

Recalling an elected official is an exacting process with critical requirements and deadlines, but it is not impossible. In the not too distant past, a special district official and school district officials were recalled in Humboldt County. There are several sources of information including a guide prepared by local elections officials, another prepared by the Secretary of State, and finally the ultimate source - state laws.

View a recall guide (PDF) and its table of contents. The guide has more links to other sites with additional information.

6. Why am I in a mail-ballot precinct?

Elections Code §3005 provides that precincts with fewer than 250 voters may be sent vote-by-mail (VBM) ballots instead of setting up a polling place. In a countywide election, anywhere from 10 to 15 precincts will be made mail-ballot precincts saving the county several thousands of dollars.

Return your VBM ballot early to ensure it is received no later than 8 p.m. on election day. Alternatively, you may drop your VBM ballot off at any polling location on election day. There is an insert included with your VBM ballot that tells you the location of polling places nearest to you.

7. Why does my polling place move?

The Office of Elections seeks to use the same polling place for each countywide election, so your polling place normally does not move from the primary to the general election. However, there are a couple of factors that can cause polling places to change. The primary reason polling places change is when the Office of Elections is conducting smaller elections -- such as a districts election for a city council or school district where the turnout will be lower. In these instances fewer polling places are needed so they are consolidated to minimize financial impact. The second reason polling places change is due to availability of the polling place facilities. When polling place facilities have a change in availability or require a fee to use the polling place facility, the Office of Elections must coordinate with alternate polling place facilities, resulting in a change of polling place.

The Office of Elections understands that polling place changes can cause confusion and strives to provide stable polling places from one election to another. Unfortunately, this is not always possible.

To minimize potential confusion caused by polling place changes, voters can always determine their polling place by looking at the back of their sample ballot. The sample ballot contains the name and address of the voter's polling place. A second method voters can use to find their polling place is to contact the Office of Elections at 707-445-7481 and Elections staff can verify a voter's polling place. A third method voters can use to find their polling place is to become a permanent vote-by-mail (VBM) voter by applying for a permanent absentee ballot. With this third method the Office of Elections automatically mails voters a ballot for each election in which they are eligible to vote. For more information about becoming a permanent vote-by-mail voter, look at our pages on voting by mail.

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Human Rights Commission

Show All Answers

1. What if I believe my rights have been violated?

At this time, please call 707-268-2548, leave your name,phone number, and best time to call. A commissioner will return your call to get more information.

2. How can I participate?

You can participate through attending meetings on the first Thursday of every month and getting involved in activities sponsored by the Human Rights Commission.

Meetings are held at 825 Fifth Street, Room 1A, 1st Floor, Eureka, CA 95501.

Meeting time: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

NOTE: Agendas are posted on the bulletin board on the 5th Street side of the County Court House 72 hours prior to the meeting.

3. Does the Commission give legal advice?

No, but we may be able to direct you to nonprofit agencies who can advise you. We have many resources we would be willing to share with you.

4. How can I become a commissioner?

Individuals wishing to become commissioners are encouraged to attend a few meetings and ask questions. Get to know what the Commission is doing and how you may contribute.

To become a Human Rights Commissioner complete an application and mail to the address below (a link to an application can be found under the "Members" section).

Meetings are held at 825 Fifth Street, Room 1A, 1st Floor, Eureka, CA 95501.

Meeting time: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

NOTE: Agendas are posted on the bulletin board on the 5th Street side of the County Court House 72 hours prior to the meeting.

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Library

Show All Answers

1. What do I need to know to make a PIN for my library account?

How to Set Up Your PIN        

  A PIN is a code that helps protect your library account and your privacy. You will need it to use the library online. 

If you don't have a PIN yet, you can make one now.

                      

   

Open Your Library Account in a New Window

                                    

    

                  

   

1.   Log in to your library account. Sign in with your name and library card number.  Leave the 'Enter Your PIN' field blank, and log in.

2.    This time, you will see the message, 'Please enter a new PIN.'

3.    Decide what 4-digit number you want for your PIN. It should be a number that is easy for you to remember and hard for others to guess. You may want to write it down so you don't forget it. (Note - if a PIN is super-easy, like 1234, or if it doesn't have exactly four numbers, the system won't accept it.) 

4.    Put your library card number in again (and your name if your name isn't already filled in), and enter your new PIN in the boxes where it says 'Enter Your PIN' and 'Enter Your PIN Again'.

5.    Click Login, and you are done!

2. It was on the old web page and now I can't find it. Where did it go?

It's all still here! 

Everything that was on the library website before is still here to find.

Explore the 4 menus at the very top of the page - ABOUT,  WHAT WE HAVE,  WHAT WE DO, and YOUTH.  When you hover over the word ABOUT (or click it), you see all the categories under ABOUT - access at branch libraries, branches & hours, checkout & renewal policies, how to get a library card, library history, volunteers & supporters, and library statistics. You can click either a blue header or a white subhead to get to more information.

If you still don't find what you are looking for, use the site search. Click the 'site search' button above the big search bar. Then enter what you are looking for, like 'Summer Reading'.  (If you accidentally get books with that title instead, that's because our search bar automatically searches the library catalog unless you click 'site search' - then you can search the whole County website.)

Call 707-269-1915 during library open hours. We'd be happy to help you!

  To Library Home Page

3. How can I ? ......Get a library card

Library cards are free of charge. You must provide a picture ID. (Many types are acceptable.) ’Permanent’ Library Cards are free of charge to Humboldt County residents with a permanent local mailing address. ’Express’ Library Cards are also free, and available without providing a local address. When replacing a lost card, there is a $4.00 fee.  More information about library cards is here...

Or, if you just want to use online resources remotely, you can get an eAccount. No ID is needed for this account.

-- More information about library cards.

4. Renew a book

To renew online, access your library account.  It’s linked just below the ’Search the Library’ search bar at the top of the library home page, or you can find it on the library catalog at the bottom of the right menu. You’ll need your library card. Sign in to see a list of all the library books you have checked out now, and how to renew them. 

You can also renew a book over the phone or (when libraries are open) in person at any Library branch. Again, you’ll need your library card. Books may be renewed twice and audio-visual materials may be renewed once. However, if someone else is waiting for the book or video, and has placed a hold on it, that item will not be renewed. You may renew your items by calling the library’s circulation desk at 707-269-1915.  

Library Home Page

Go to the Library Catalog now.

5. Download books, audiobooks, and magazines

On the Humboldt County Library home page, use the menu to find our eBooks page.  From that page you can get to eBooks, audiobooks, magazines and more to use online or download.  (Our many eBooks aren’t listed in the library catalog, so you can’t find them with the regular book search.) 

You’ll need a Humboldt County Library Card  or an eAccount to use and download most of these online resources.

Go right to the eBooks page now

6. Make the text on the library website bigger

There are at least two ways to do this 

(1) You can use control-plus. This is really easy, and works on most web pages! Hold down the control button (or, on a Mac, the command button or apple button) and press the  + key. Each time you press the plus key you zoom in and make the text and pictures on the page bigger. Using control-minus (hold control, then press the dash key, it’s right next to the plus key) will make the text smaller again. 

(2) You may prefer to use your computer’s Accessibility tools to see all or part of the page in a larger size. Since computers differ in how to get to these tools, use Google to get instructions if they aren’t easy to find on your computer. 

(3) If you see a symbol on the page with the letter A starting small and getting bigger, click that to make a modest change in size.  

Library Home Page

7. Contact the Webmaster about the library website

If you have a question....

If you have a question that needs an answer, please call the Main Library Reference Desk at 707-269-1905. Librarians can answer questions about the website and any kind of information questions over the telephone. 

If you have a comment or suggestion for our website, or a website problem to report....

use our Library Website Comment Form. The link is below. Use it for specific comments and suggestions about the website or to report website problems you have spotted such as broken links, errors or pages that need more information. The library website is intended to serve you. The webmaster appreciates your comments and will read them with care in hopes of improving the site for everyone.

Website Comment Form

8. Ask a question when I'm not in the library

It works best to ask your questions by telephone, at 707-269-1915.  

If it’s not easy to use the phone due to a difficulty in hearing or another disability,  use the California Relay Service. Dial 711 to access this service. 

To ask a question online, use the ’Connect with a Librarian’ button on the Library home page.

If you are out of the area and wish to ask a genealogical or local history question, please use our Obituary Search Service or Local History Search Service. These long distance research services are available for a ten dollar fee.  (Of course, research assistance is free when you are able to visit the library.)

- Obituary & Local History Service info. here.

9. Get a book the library doesn't have

Here are three ways to get a book the library doesn’t have.

New Books

If the book is less than a year old, make a New Book Suggestion.  (You can suggest films or audio also. We can’t promise to buy everything, but we wish we could!)  Do you want to get an email if your suggestion is purchased?  Then create a Preferred Search for your title and make sure the library has your correct email address. 

Interlibrary Loan 

Check with a librarian to make sure the library doesn’t have the book somewhere.  If not, and the book is at least 1 year old, visit a library to ask us to get it by Interlibrary Loan.  The library can borrow it from another library for you to use.  Bring your library card (you need a ’permanent’ card for this service, not an Express card or an eAccount.) 

Zip Books

If the book is at least a year old, costs under $35 and is available via Amazon Prime, come in to the library and ask about getting a Zip Book.  Bring your library card (you need a ’permanent’ card for this service.)  Zip Books are real, paper books that the library orders shipped directly to your home. They arrive quickly, Zip!  When you return the book to the library it can become part of the library’s collection.

How to Request a Zip Book

10. Use the library's free Internet

Free Internet at Your Library

Even when the library is closed, you can use wi-fi from any library parking lot. 

For most Humboldt County Public Libraries, wi-fi hours are 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

When Libraries are Open

When libraries are open, you can use wi-fi inside or outside, or get a free turn on a library computer. To save work done on a library computer, or print files from your own computer, either bring a portable drive (flash drive, thumb drive, memory stick) or save to your email or online account.

Prints can be made via library computers, and cost 10 cents a page. 50 cents for color prints. 

Internet sessions on public computers at the Main Library are 30 minutes, and the computer will offer you more time, up to another 15 minutes, if not many computers are in use. For quick access to a computer, please bring your library card if you have one. Most Branch Libraries have at least one computer for internet use.

At the Main Library in Eureka, use your Humboldt County Library Card to get a turn on a public computer. If you are a visitor, ask for a Guest Pass at the Computer Access Desk. If you are filling out a government form or an application form for school or employment, ask if a special computer is available for you. 

There is no wi-fi password needed at the Main Library in Eureka, but some branch libraries may require you to ask staff for the password. All use of the Library’s internet must be appropriate for a public place, and is subject to the Humboldt County Library Internet Policy.  On the left menu of the library home page, under Library Resources, look for Public Computers & Internet -- there you’ll find more details.

Visit the Public Computers & Internet Page Now

11. Make sure I hear about events at the library

Don’t Miss the Event You’ve Been Waiting For!

Special Events Calendar

A calendar showing Special Events at All Libraries is found on the Humboldt County Library home page. Visit the web page for any branch library to see just the events happening at that branch. 

Get Event Notices

Subscribe to one or more library calendars.  At the calendar page you have the option to sign up to use iCalendar to feed library events into your own online calendar, or choose to get automatic email or text notices about events happening at one library, several, or all.  

Storytimes and Weekly Events 

Visit the Ongoing Events Page.  The many story times and events that happen regularly every week are not featured on our calendar. Instead they are on the Ongoing Events page and on individual branch pages.

Call and Ask 

As always, you may telephone any library location during open hours to ask about events. You can find your branch phone number on the individual branch homepage. 

Paper Calendars to Take Home

Most events at Eureka Main Library and some branch libraries are also available each month on paper calendars.  Check for one to take home at your friendly library service desk. 

Library Home Page

12. Search for a film at the library

In the library catalog, you can search for a movie in several ways 

Title Search 

 This is fast and easy If you know the title of the movie. 

Author Search (Used Also for Actors, Directors, etc.)

Use this search to find a full list of movies featuring a particular actor, or director (be sure to put the last name first, as in "Garbo, Greta"). 

Keyword Search

Use the most unusual words in the title and add the keyword DVD to your search.

Advanced Search

If you want to find all of the films we have on a subject (fairies, for instance, or knitting) you can use the Advanced Search. Choose Subject for the top search bar and type ’Fairies’. Then pick ’DVD’ from the Material Type box, and search.

Want to See a List? Search by Call Number!

Choose the Call Number search from the list in the right-hand menu when you are in the catalog.  For the call number, type ’DVD’.  The list you get by searching that way shows you up to ten thousand dvds - starting with any that have a zero in the call number or in the title.  But you can get a shorter list by trying a search like these -

Search  ’DVD M’  to get tv and drama movies like MASH, Ma & Pa Kettle, Macbeth, and all the library’s films that have titles that start with M.

Search  ’DVD 9’  to get titles that start with 9, plus documentaries about history, biography, or travel (topics from the Dewey Decimal 900s).

If you know the call number for your subject, you can get more exact and search ’DVD 914’ to get travel films about Europe and European countries.

Return to Library Home Page

13. Why is the library closed on Mondays?

The library staff work from Tuesday to Saturday, so that people who work a normal week can use the library on Saturday.

Return to Library Home Page.

14. Find a computer catalog at the Main Library in Eureka

Look for computers that have a Library Catalog sign on the top of the monitor screen. You will find one catalog computer west of the reference desk (behind it), one near the elevator, another in the Children’s room, and others scattered around the library.

Return to Library Home Page.

15. Find a restroom in the Main Library

The library restrooms are off the lobby, to your right as you enter. There are no restrooms on the second floor. For children, there is a child-sized family restroom in the children's room.

See a map showing the locations of restrooms.

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Library - Alerts for Your Preferred Library Searches

Show All Answers

1. How can I get email alerts about new library materials of interest to me?

To receive email notices about new library materials,

 

• First, make sure that your correct email address is entered in your library account. 
• Then create one or more Preferred Searches for your favorite authors, subjects, or a title when there's that one special book just about to arrive! You will get email when new library materials arrive that match your preferred searches. 
• Read the next FAQ to find out how to create a Preferred Search!

These alerts are sent by email only. That's because they are automatic. An alert is sent from the library catalog the moment a new item is added.

2. How do I create a Preferred Search?

Steps to make a Preferred Search

1. Start by logging in to your library account.
2. Use the search bar at the top of the screen to search. It usually works best to search by title, author, or subject. (Watch out! if you save a keyword search as a preferred search, you could get emails about items that don't interest you but happen to have your keyword somewhere.)
3. When you get your search results, even if nothing is found, you will see the ’Save as Preferred Search’ button appear near the search bar. Click the button to be notified any time a new item that matches your search is added to the Library collection. 
4. Please note that you will only see the Preferred Search button when you are logged in to your account and have done a search. 

Examples

• If you use the SUBJECT search for ’organic gardening’ while in your own account, and click the ’Save as Preferred Search’ button, you will be notified when new books with that subject are added. 
• If you use the AUTHOR search, and click the button, you will be notified when any new books by that author are added.
• If you use the TITLE search for a new book the library doesn't have yet, and make that a Preferred Search, you'll get an email right away if the library buys it.

3. Is there a limit to the number of Preferred Searches?

Yes, the maximum number of preferred searches you can have at one time is 25. You can cancel any search and set up a new one whenever you want.

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Library - Curbside Pickup

Show All Answers

1. I have a disability (or am at high risk). I can't come into the library. How can I get my books?

Please call the library where you expect to pick up your delivery and together we can figure out how to safely get it to you. Curbside service continues to be available as a Library access option for those who need it.

Pick-up must take place at the library during open hours.

2. Why isn't curbside service still available for everyone?

The County Health Department has approved a return to regular open hours for library service. 

You are invited to step into the library to pick up any books you have requested in advance at the service desk, or to choose books at your leisure and check them out. With this service level, library staff need to be available inside the library at their normal service points.

When in the library, your may wear a quality mask to protect yourself if you choose. Please show your respect for your health and that of others by taking appropriate safety measures such as handwashing and social distancing.

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Library - Finding a Book

Show All Answers

1. I found a book in the online catalog. Now, how do I find it on the shelf?

How to Find a Book 

You can always ask a staff member, but it's usually easy to find it yourself.

The online catalog record tells you the author, the title, and the publisher of the book. Then it tells you where to find it by using Location, Call #, and Status.

LOCATION     EUR Fiction   

EUR means the book is in Eureka Library.  Fiction tells you the book is in the Fiction area. (Just request the book if it isn't at your location).

ARC  = Arcata,  BLK =  Blue Lake, BKM = Bookmobile, EUR = Eureka, FER = Ferndale, FOR = Fortuna, GAR = Garberville, HOA = Hoopa, MCK = McKinleyville, RIO = Rio Dell, TRI = Trinidad, and WCK = Willow Creek.

Call #        FICTION DUMAS

The 'Call Sign' or 'Call Number' is the book's address and tells you exactly where to find it. 

Fiction is shelved in ABC order, just like words in a dictionary. To find this DUMAS book, first find call signs beginning with D.  Then look for DU, and when you get to DUM, you will be close enough to touch the book. Because U is close to the end of the alphabet, this book is near the end of all the books in the D area.

STATUS      CHECK SHELF

Before you go hunting for a book, look at the STATUS. If the status is Checked Out, or No Available Items, place a hold or talk to a staff member. But when it says Check Shelf, you can usually expect to find the book on the shelf where it belongs. (If the status is Ready to Shelve, the book was returned recently and you can check the shelf for it, but ask a staff member if you don't find it there.)

Books with Call Numbers

What if the book has a call number, like Robert Sapolsky's 'A Primate's Memoir' does?  The call number is a subject number, so finding this book will lead you to others about primates too.

CALL #       599.865 SAPOLSKY

Books with a call number are in 123 order. The numbers start with zero and end with 900s. On the end of each shelf you will see a sign that gives you a number range, like 479 to 610. If the number you have is between those two numbers, you have found the right shelf.

First look for the 599 area. Then look at the first number after the period in the call sign - 599.1, 599.2, until you find 599.8.  Now look for the second number after the period, to find 599.86, and then 599.865. 

There might be more than one book that has the same subject number. If there are, they will be next to each other in ABC order according to the name at the end of the call number, so if you are writing it down, don't leave out the name.

2. Some of these Call Signs look like a code. How do I know what they mean?

Reading a Call Number

Each part of the Call # tells you more about where the book can be found. And yes, there might be a code! But you can decode it.

For example,

j 398.2

LANG

j  The letter before the numbers is a collection code that tells you in what area, or what special collection, the book is found. The ' j ' stands for 'juvenile', so this book is in the Children's Area.

398.2 is the subject number for folk tales and fairy tales. These Dewey Decimal System subject numbers help keep books on the same subject together. Books are in order by number on the shelves, from books with numbers starting with zero to those that start with 999.

LANG is the author's name. Since there are lots of fairytale books, the name or word after the number helps you find the book in ABC order once you have found the shelf with all those 398.2 books. 

Most books are easy to find in Fiction, alphabetically by author name, or in Nonfiction by number. Others are in special areas with codes that you can see below.

If you take a book off the shelf but don't check it out, you can leave it on a table for library staff to put away. Staff will make sure the book is put exactly where it belongs so the next person can find it.

Collection Codes Used in the Humboldt County Public Library System

In Eureka Main Library, all of these collections have their own special area. In a smaller branch library, collections may be combined (for example, mysteries and science fiction may be shelved together with other fiction.)

ATLAS  R    =   Atlas Case, Eureka Library Reference 

AUTO  R           =   Auto Repair Reference Collection in Eureka Library

AV ROOM         =   Audio-Visual Reference Books (shelved near DVDs)

BCD            =   Audio Books on CD, adult AV area

Board Books     =   Board Books for young children, with cardboard pages

CD                    =   Music on CD, shelved by musical genre

CHINESE         =   Chinese & Japanese Language Collection in Eureka Library, or if children's material, Children's World Languages collection.

CLASSICS       =   Arcata Library Classics Collection

CONSUMER  R  =  Consumer Reference Buying Guides, at Eureka Reference Desk

DESK  R          =  Ask at a service desk to use this reference book

E                      =  Children's Picture Books

E  ABC             =  Alphabet or Counting Books, Children's Collection

E  BEGINNING    =  Beginning Readers, Children's Collection

FICTION          =   Fiction Area

GOV. DOC R   =   Government Documents, Reference

HOLIDAY        =   Holiday books, shelved together by holiday, Children's Collection

HR                  =   Humboldt Room Collection at Eureka Library

j                       =   An item in the Children’s Area

J KIT               =   Children's read-along kits with book and tape or CD.

j R                   =   Children’s Reference Books, shelved at the Children's desk in Eureka Library

j SP                 =   Children’s Spanish Language Collection

JAPANESE     =   Japanese & Chinese Language Collection in Eureka Library, or if children's material, Children's World Languages collection.

jBCD               =   Children's audiobooks on CD

jBT                  =   Children's audiobooks on cassette tape

jDVD               =   Children's movies on DVD

jV                    =   Children's movies on video cassette

LANGUAGE BCD    =   Language learning kits with audio on CD

[Any LANGUAGE NAME, for example, Arabic]    =   Children's World Languages collection, by language name. See SPANISH, CHINESE, & JAPANESE for exceptions.

LITERACY     =   Adult-level readers, Literacy collection at Eureka Library

LT                   =   Large Type Books, books in large print.

MCN               =   McNaughton books (Extra copies of popular books)

MYS               =   Mystery Novels

O&W              =   Older & Wiser Collection, Fortuna Branch

OVERSIZE     =   Oversize books, shelved together because of their large size

PB                   =   Paperback

PERIODICAL ROOM    =   Eureka Library periodical back issues & reference materials, ask at 2nd Floor office.

PN                   =   Parenting Corner in Eureka Library Children's Room

REF DESK      =   Ask at the Eureka Library Reference desk to use this book

SET HAR         =   A volume of the Harvard Classics, shelved by call number

SF                    =   Science Fiction & Fantasy Collection

SPANISH         =   Spanish Language Collection

W                     =   Western Novels

YA                    =   Young Adult Collection

3. How does the Dewey Decimal System work?

The Dewey Decimal Classification System

10 Main Dewey Decimal System Classes

    000 Computer science, information & general works

    100 Philosophy & psychology

    200 Religion

    300 Social sciences

    400 Language

    500 Science

    600 Technology

    700 Arts & recreation

    800 Literature

    900 History & geography

Melvil Dewey (1851-1931) invented this system and first published it in 1876.

In many libraries all over the world, books are organized by subject using the Dewey Decimal System. With this system, if you find a book about gardening or marriage, plumbing or birds, you can also explore others on the same topic that sit next to it on the shelf. 

Dewey first ordered subjects into ten main classes. Within those classes, specific numbers are used for more exact topics. Librarians can build a number for even a brand-new subject by following this system, which is revised from time to time to reflect new understandings and new ideas.

In the Humboldt County Public Library System, a Dewey subject number label is placed on the spine of each nonfiction book, and books are shelved in order by number. When several books sit next to each other with the same subject number, they are put in alphabetical order by the name or word after the number on the label. At the end of each shelf, a sign tells you a number range for all the books that sit on that shelf.

See more details on each of the ten classes on Wikipedia. 

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Library - Placing Library Hold Requests

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1. How do I place a hold request?

Classic Catalog

• When you have found an item in the library catalog, and can see that it is checked out or located in a distant library branch, look for the request button at the top of the page -- EXCEPT...
• When you are looking at a page with a list of books, the request link appears to the right of each item so that you can select the item you want.
• Click the button and (if you need to) sign in with your library card and PIN to place your hold.

New Look Catalog

• When you have found an item you want in the catalog, check first to see if it's already at the library you might be standing in. 
• If not, and if you want to place a hold, look for the 'PLACE  HOLD' button on the lower right of the record.
• Click the button and (if you need to) sign in with your library card and PIN to place your hold.

2. How do I log out of my account when I am finished placing holds?

How to Log Out of Your Private Library Account

• Check the upper right corner of the screen. 
• In the Classic Catalog, you should see the words Log Out. Click to exit your private account. 
• In the New Look Catalog, you will see your name. Click there to choose 'log out'.
• This logs you out of your private account. You do not need to exit the catalog or turn off the computer.

3. How do I choose my pickup location?

You may choose any Humboldt County Library branch as your pickup location from the drop-down list of locations displayed on the screen.

4. Can I freeze a hold request?

Going on vacation? Yes, you can suspend or "freeze" requests until you get back. "Freezing a request" means that your position in the hold queue is skipped over until the request is reactivated. While your hold is frozen, those next in line can take their turn, but you do not have to start over from the end of the queue. You will be reinstated to your place in the list once you reactivate your hold. To Freeze a hold, mark the item in the Freeze column and select Update hold.

5. How do I reactivate my hold request?

To reactivate your hold, clear the freeze column and select update hold.

6. How do I make changes to a hold request?

You can view and change outstanding hold requests by selecting the item and clicking the modify link.  If the item is ready to pick up, please call the library instead.

7. How do I cancel a hold request?

You can cancel a hold request by selecting the item and clicking on cancel.

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Library - Your Library Reading History

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1. What is a Reading History?

Your Reading History is a personal list of items that you have checked out from the Library, a list you can tell the library catalog to keep for you. Once you have created this list, you can see it at any time by signing in to your library account with your library card number and PIN. Your list is private and only you can see it (unless you choose to share your card and PIN with another person).

The Library does not automatically collect your reading history. If you want to start keeping your history, you must choose to 'Opt In' before this list can be started. This means when you start your list it won't have any of the books you checked out from before  - just the ones you check out after you have begun keeping the list.

2. How do I create my Reading History?

Log in to your library account with your library card number and PIN. (if you don't have a PIN yet, here is how to get one.)

Click the 'My Reading History' button. If you have not yet created a Reading History, you will see the message 'No reading history available'. Click the 'Opt In' button to start collecting your Reading History. Once you 'Opt In', the library catalog starts recording a list of the items you check out from that time forward.

Items you have already checked out at the time of opting in, like items you have read in the past, will not be on the list. After opting in to Reading History, anything you check out will be added to the list, and you can see it whenever you enter the Reading History display.

3. How can I delete items from my Reading History?

You can delete any item from your Reading History by marking the entry with a check mark in the column and clicking the Delete Marked button, or you can delete all items with the Delete All button.

4. How do I discontinue my Reading History?

Are you sure you want to stop keeping your history? Once you 'opt out' of reading history, the catalog will no longer save the titles of items you have checked out., and will forget everything that used to be in your list.

To Opt Out, first delete all items from your Reading History. 

Then click the 'Opt Out' link to cease collecting Reading History.

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Library - Your Library Reading Lists

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1. How do I create a list of library books that I might like to read in the future?

To create a list, first log in to your Library Account. Using the search bar at the top of the Library Account page, use the library catalog to find a title you wish to add to your list. Once you have found your item, look at the top of the page again to see the ’Add to My Lists’ link. (If there is more than one item on the page, you will need to check the box at the left of the title to select the specific item you wish to place on your list.) Click the ’Add to My Lists’ link to see the option to create a new list. Once you have created a list, you can use the ’My Lists’ button in your library account to see your list any time.

Sign in to your Library Account

2. How do I add items to an existing list?

When you search the library catalog and see an item you want to put on your list, you can add it in one of two ways.

If your search found multiple items, you will see something like this near the top of the page:

Click the box next to the title you want and then select ’Save to my Lists’.

                   OR...

If your search found only one item, you will see something like this near the top of the page.  Click ’Add to My Lists’.

Either way, if you have more than one list, you can choose the list you want. Your item will be added to the list.

3. How do I use the Book Cart to save or export lists from the Library Catalog?

You do not have to be logged into your account to create a list and send it to the book cart. Save titles to the Book Cart by marking the check boxes next to your selections, and then clicking the ’Save Marked’ button at the top or bottom of the screen. 

The titles are saved to the Book Cart. When you are ready to view the full list, click the ’View Saved’ button with the cart icon. 

On the Book Cart screen, you can see and edit your list. Now you have choices. You can export your list to a notepad file, open it in plain text on the screen, or click the "Save to my Lists" link to save the item to a Reading List in your library account (you’ll be asked to log in with your library card if saving to your Reading List). If you are using a computer connected to the Internet, you can choose to email the list.

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Library - Your Online Library Account

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1. Log in to Your Library Account

You Can Log in to Your Account from Here

                                                                      Go to my library account now.

To Log in from the Library Catalog

• When you are using the library's classic catalog, find 'My Library' on the menu at the lower right part of your catalog screen. Choose 'My Account'.  .
• If you are using the New Look version of the catalog, use the 'My Account' tab at the top of the page. 
• To sign in to your account, enter your name and the last 9 digits of your library card number. You must also enter your PIN number. If you have forgotten your PIN, ask for help at the desk where you check out your books, or call the library during open hours 
  

Log Out

• After using your account on a public computer, be sure to log out of it to protect your personal information.  
• Look for the way to sign out in the upper right corner of the screen. (You can also log in from that corner whenever you are using the catalog.)
• When you are logged in to the classic catalog, the upper right corner shows the words 'LOG OUT'. In the New Look catalog, you will see your NAME there. 
• Click it to choose 'log out'.

2. Customize Your Library Account

In your library account, you can

• See your circulation information (holds, books currently checked out, due dates, overdues, etc.)
• Check your personal Information (address, phone number, email, PIN, etc.) - is it correct?
• Place hold requests and renew books
• Sign up to get email when a preferred new book arrives
• Create and edit reading lists 
• Choose to automatically keep your reading history

3. Can I change my personal information?

You can change your email or phone number, and you can change your library account access PIN.

To update the email address and phone number you would like the library to use, click the 'Modify Personal Information' button in your account and enter the new information. 

To make other changes, please talk to Circulation Desk staff at any library branch.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Measure I - Affordable Housing Initiative

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1. What does “low income” mean? What are the income limits?

State law defines low income as “persons and families whose income does not exceed the qualifying limits for lower income families as established and amended from time to time pursuant to Section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.”  The 2020 income limits are: 

• for a 4-person household, the annual income limit for low income is $55,900.
• for an individual, the annual income limit for low income is $39,150.

The qualifying income limits for very low income and extremely low income are less than the above amounts.  HUD updates the income limits typically every year.

2. Will passage of Measure I increase my property taxes or sales taxes?

No; passage of Measure I by the voters will not increase property taxes.  Passage of Measure I will not increase sales taxes either.

3. Does Measure I apply inside the cities?

If Measure I passes, it will only apply in the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County.  It will not apply inside the city limits of any of the seven incorporated cities in Humboldt County.

4. Do the land use and building rules apply to Article 34 housing?

Article 34 housing projects must meet all General Plan, zoning and building requirements just as other projects.  Also, Article 34 housing projects must meet safety standards for fire, road, water, sewer, etc. just as other projects.  Passage of Measure I does not waive or modify these standards.

5. Where can Article 34 housing can be built?

Under State law, Article 34 applies to rental housing of five or more rental housing units on a single lot or adjoining lots of land that use certain types of public financial assistance.  Article 34 also applies to rental housing developments developed or owned by a city or county.  This means Article 34 housing would need to be built on properties planned and zoned to allow multifamily development.  Properties with the appropriate land use and zoning are generally located in the more urbanized areas of Humboldt County.

6. What kind of housing would be built?

If Measure I passes, it is expected that housing constructed using the Article 34 authorization will oftentimes be multifamily apartments.

7. The voters in the cities of Eureka and Arcata already approved Article 34 measures. What kind of Article 34 housing was built? What does it look like?

City of Arcata examples: 

1) Bayview Courtyards: Assessor’s Parcel Number 503-460-0132) Plaza Point: Assessor’s Parcel Number: 021-291-001

City of Eureka Examples:

1) Eureka Family Housing: Assessor’s Parcel Number: 009-014-021

2) The Lodge: Assessor’s Parcel Number: 004-212-001. 

8. What does Measure I’s language of “2.5% of the existing housing” mean in terms of the number of housing units that can be built?

As of January 1, 2019, Humboldt County had 34,861 housing units.*  This means that up to 872 Article 34 housing units can be built if Measure I passes.  [*Source: State Department of Finance, Table E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates.]

9. Is there a time limit? Does Measure I expire?

If passed by the voters, Measure I expires when 872 Article 34 housing units are built. There is no deadline for when these housing units need to built.  Passage of Measure I does not mandate that the units be built.

10. If Measure I passes, are developers and builders required to build Article 34 housing?

No, they are not.  Measure I does not mandate developers and builders build Article 34 housing.  Development of Article 34 housing is voluntary.

11. Why did the County and Board of Supervisors put Measure I on the ballot?

Humboldt County’s 2019 Housing Element identified Article 34 of the California Constitution as a significant and unnecessary regulatory barrier to development of affordable housing.  The County’s final adopted 2019 Housing Element (PDF) includes Implementation Measure H-IM26.  This Implementation Measure directs the County to seek local Article 34 authorization as part of the November 3, 2020, General Election. 

12. When is the election?

Tuesday, November 3, 2020.  Please contact the Office of Elections for more information about registering to vote, the November 3, 2020 election or your ballot.

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Measure J & Measure K

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1. What is the issue?

Humboldt County prides itself on fiscal responsibility, and protecting your public safety, environment and quality of life.  As the state continually takes funding from local counties – nearly $400 million from Humboldt County alone – local voters have acted previously to ensure local essential services are maintained and community priorities are met. In 2022, there are two existing, previously-approved voter measures need to be renewed/updated.

2. What is Measure J?

Measure J is the Humboldt County Hotel Tax Update Measure. Measure J is paid only by hotel/motel guests and RV campers, and is NOT a tax on local homeowners or property owners.

3. What types of services does Measure J support?

As a General Purpose Measure, Measure J funds are included in the county’s general fund which supports services that tourists and visitors also use such as:

• 9-1-1 emergency response times 
• Rural fire protection services
• Rural ambulance service 
• Ensuring there are sheriff’s deputies on-duty 24 hours a day and
• Repairing our deteriorating county roads

4. What other services does Measure J fund?

The county has agreements with several tourist and visitors bureaus to automatically share a percentage of TOT Funds with them to support the local tourism economy (such as generating hospitality jobs, and supporting local art and theater). The county also uses general revenue funds to maintain clean, safe parks, playgrounds, campgrounds and trails, and to help people transition from temporary to permanent housing.

5. What is Measure K?

State law requires Humboldt County voters to renew its modest, annual vehicle registration fee that’s used to remove and dispose of abandoned vehicles every ten years. Measure K is the Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Program Renewal Measure.

6. What does Measure K fund?

Measure K is a special purpose measure and by law, funds can only be used to remove and dispose of abandoned vehicles in Humboldt County. No funds can be used for any other purpose.

7. What are the fiscal accountability requirements?

Funds from these measures will be subject to strict accountability provisions, including annual independent audits and public review of all expenditures. By law, all Measure K and J funds must be spent locally, and none can be taken by the state.

8. When is the election?

Tuesday, June 7, 2022. Ballots will be mailed out one month in advance. If you aren’t registered to vote, visit our Voter Registration web page. 

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Measure O - Public Safety and Essential Services Renewal

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1. What is Measure O?

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to place Measure O – the Humboldt County Public Safety and Essential Services Renewal Measure – on the November 6, 2018 ballot to maintain locally-controlled funding for essential County services, without raising tax rates.

2. Why was Measure O placed on the ballot?

Over the past 25 years, $368 million in State takeaways continues to affect the County’s budget. Measure O would continue existing, voter-approved locally-controlled funding that cannot be taken by Sacramento. Measure O will maintain current essential services, including:

• Maintaining 911 emergency response times
• Providing services for the victims of child abuse
• Maintaining rural ambulance and fire protection services
• Providing additional mental health services for children
• Ensuring there are sheriff’s deputies on-duty 24 hours a day
• Repairing deteriorating roads

3. How else will Measure O continue protecting public safety?

Despite limited funding, volunteer fire departments and firefighters play critical roles in protecting life and property here in Humboldt County. Measure O will continue to support these volunteers and maintain resources and training that better – and more safely – protect County residents.

4. How does Measure O help kids stay safe?

Protective and counseling services for the victims and witnesses of child abuse have been severely reduced in recent years. Measure O will restore these services and protect children that have been victims of horrible crimes. 

5. What does Measure O cost?

Measure O would continue the existing, voter-approved one-half cent sales tax, with no increase in tax rate. Measure O is not applied to prescription medicine or food purchased as groceries, and visitors to our region also pay the cost.  

6. Is Measure O fiscally accountable?

Yes. Measure O continues to require community and fiscal accountability, including financial audits and an Independent Citizens’ Advisory Committee will continue to review Measure O funds to ensure they are spent efficiently on public priorities. By, law all Measure O funding must be spent locally, and none can be taken by the state. 

7. When is the election?

Tuesday, November 6, 2018. To register to vote, visit http://registertovote.ca.gov//

8. Where can I get more information about Measure O?

The county will continue to keep the community informed about Measure O. For more information, please visit the County website humboldtgov.org/MeasureO.

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Measure S - Local Commercial Marijuana Cultivation Measure

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1. What is Measure S?

On August 9, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors unanimously placed Measure S on the November ballot. Measure S is local commercial marijuana cultivation measure that, if enacted by voters, will help maintain local County services will locally-controlled funding.

2. Why was Measure S placed on the ballot?

Humboldt County prides itself on fiscal responsibility, and protecting your public safety, environment and quality of life. As the state continually takes funding from local counties – over $325 million from Humboldt County alone – Measure S would provide a source of local funding to maintain essential services that cannot be taken by the state, including:
• Enforcing laws that require marijuana growers to protect natural areas and water quality in rivers, creeks and streams
• Maintaining services for victims of child abuse
• Maintaining rural ambulance service
• Maintaining mental health services for children and families
• Providing communications services for medical and first responders
• Cleaning up after environmentally damaging marijuana farms

3. How does Measure S help protect our natural resources and beauty of our county?

Illegal marijuana farms are destroying our environment and risking our health. They divert and dry up sensitive creeks and streams and use toxic pesticides that harm wildlife and risks public health. If enacted, Measure S will ensure marijuana growers pay their fair share to help protect our public safety, health and environment, while enforcing laws that require growers protect our county’s natural areas and water quality. Providing these services requires locally-controlled funding that cannot be taken by the state.

4. How does Measure S address the illegal drug industry and increased narcotics use in our region?

Hard drugs and narcotics like meth and heroin continue to be a growing problem in our county. With over $325 million in state takeaways over the past 24 years, Sacramento has taken significant revenue from Humboldt County’s budget. Measure S would provide additional funds to fight drug-related crimes, eliminate drug labs, and provide drug prevention and rehabilitation services.

5. What does Measure S cost?

If enacted, Measure S will tax commercial marijuana growers a rate of $1-$3 per square foot tax, based on the type of commercial marijuana grow. Funds from Measure S would be subject to strict accountability provisions including annual independent audits and public review of expenditures that ensure funds are spent efficiently and responsibly.

6. When is the election?

November 8, 2016. To register to vote online and for more elections information, visit the Humboldt County Office of Elections web page.

7. Where can I get more information?

The county will continue to keep the community informed about Humboldt County’s essential service needs and fiscal condition. For more information, please continue to visit the county website.

8. When will the tax be payable?

If approved by voters the tax will be payable in 2017, likely due and payable in the Fall.

9. Will farmers who grow outdoor but have a genetics/cloning area where they have their seeds or starts under lights be considered "outdoor" or "mixed light" for purposes of the tax?

We view areas where clones or seeds are propagated and developed into immature plants in a non-flowering (i.e. vegetative) condition as ancillary facilities to the locations used for flowering (whether mixed light, indoor, or outdoor). These areas are not included in the calculation of the “cultivation area” used to determine the required land use permit.

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Measure Z FAQ's

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1. What is Measure Z?

On July 22, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to place Measure Z on the November 4, 2014, ballot to maintain and improve essential Humboldt County services, including public safety. If adopted by voters, Measure Z will, by law, expire in five years.

2. Why was Measure Z placed on the ballot?

With $286 million in State takeaways over the past 22 years, Sacramento has taken significant revenue from Humboldt County’s budget, decreasing public safety and other essential services. If Measure Z passes, it will provide a guaranteed source of local funding that cannot be taken by the State on a temporary basis, for 5 years. The Board action to place Measure Z before the voters followed input from a countywide community survey that asked residents about their priorities for local county services. Measure Z will give the community the opportunity to address local services needs among these cuts.

3. What does Measure Z cost?

Measure Z is a one-half cent sales tax that will, by law, expire in five years. Sales tax is not applied to prescription medicine or food purchased as groceries and visitors to our region also pay the cost. Measure Z is subject to strict community and fiscal accountability, including annual independent audits and community input via a citizens’ advisory committee to ensure funds are spent efficiently.

4. How will Measure Z address my public safety needs?

Due to budget constraints, Sheriff’s patrols have been greatly reduced across Humboldt County, meaning it can sometimes take several hours for a Sheriff’s deputy to respond to a call. If enacted Measure Z can provide the funds necessary for expanding patrols, maintaining emergency 9-1-1 response times, and making sure calls about violent or property crimes are responded to promptly.

Also, volunteer fire departments and firefighters play critical roles in protecting life and property here in Humboldt County. Additional resources will help maintain rural fire and ambulance protection services, allowing our first responders to better – and more safely – protect County residents.

5. I’m concerned about the illegal drug industry and increased narcotics use in our region.

Clearly, hard drugs and narcotics like meth are growing problems in Humboldt County. Measure Z can provide the additional funds the County needs to fight drug-related crimes, eliminate meth labs, and provide drug prevention and rehabilitation services.

Illegal, large-scale, marijuana farms are diverting and drying up sensitive creeks and streams and using toxic pesticides that destroy Humboldt County’s natural environment. The additional funds generated by Measure Z can protect our natural resources from these illegal industrial operations.

6. How will Measure Z enhance County services?

If adopted by voters, Measure Z will provide funds to maintain and improve public safety and essential services, including:
- Investigating violent crimes, such as rape and domestic violence
- Maintaining 911 emergency response times
- Ensuring there are Sheriff’s deputies on-duty
- Providing services for the victims of child abuse
- Maintaining rural fire protection and ambulance services
- Cleaning up environmentally damaging marijuana farms

7. When is the election?

Tuesday, November 4, 2014. You can register to vote on-line.

8. Where can I get more information about Measure Z?

The County will continue to keep the community informed about Humboldt County’s essential service needs and fiscal condition. For more information, visit our Measure Z page.

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Office of Emergency Services

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1. What does the Office of Emergency Services do?

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services (OES) coordinates and participates in emergency planning, response, and recovery under the direction of Sheriff William Honsal and in collaboration with local, state, and federal partners. OES is the primary local coordination agency for emergencies and disasters affecting residents, public infrastructure, and government operations in the County.  

Per Humboldt County Code §2210-6, the Sheriff is the designated Director of Emergency Services for the Humboldt Operational Area.

2. What is the Humboldt Operational Area?

The Humboldt Operational Area includes the entirety of the County and its cities, towns, and special districts, in coordination with independent tribes. The Sheriff is designated Director of Emergency Services for the Operational Area by local ordinance. 

3. What happens when a disaster exceeds the capacity of local response agencies?

When the County’s needs exceed the coordinated capacity of local response agencies, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is available to provide additional resources. When local and state resources are insufficient during a catastrophic disaster, the assistance of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may be requested to supplement available state resources, primarily during post-incident recovery.

A Cal OES truck delivers supplies for an Alternate Care Site designed for COVID-19 patients.

4. What is an Emergency or Disaster Declaration?

A Local Emergency affecting the County of Humboldt may be proclaimed by the Board of Supervisors or the Sheriff (or their designee) when hazardous conditions cause significant damages or pose an imminent threat to people, property, and/or the environment. Proclaiming a Local Emergency can provide the County a pathway to additional resources. Tribes and incorporated cities may independently proclaim local emergencies, while County proclamations include all cities, regions, and special districts within the Operational Area.

State-level emergency declarations include a governor's proclamation of a State of Emergency, governor's executive orders, and the Cal OES director's concurrence with an operational area's emergency proclamation. The state Emergency Services Act and the California Disaster Assistance Act direct emergency response and recovery policy and operations in California. State financial disaster assistance may be provided at the discretion of the governor.

Federal disaster declarations are requested by the governor, granted by the president, and reserved for catastrophic events. A presidential declaration of an Emergency or of a Major Disaster provides access to federal resources for individuals, businesses, and public agencies.

5. What is an Emergency Operations Center?

When an incident occurs, incident stabilization activities (e.g. firefighting, damage assessment, property conservation) may be underway at the scene of the incident. Others assigned to support incident stabilization, business continuity or crisis communications activities will report to an emergency operations center (EOC). The emergency operations center is a physical or virtual location from which coordination and support of incident management activities is directed. 

The Humboldt County Sheriff's OES manages emergency response from the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), using the Incident Command System (ICS). The state Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS), and the federal National Incident Management System (NIMS) and National Response Framework (NRF) establish common operating procedures, best practices, and a “whole community” approach to disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. Emergency managers are very fond of acronyms.

A large-scale EOC activated in response to the COVID-19 emergency in Humboldt County.

A small county EOC activated in response to localized flooding.

6. What is a Joint Information Center?

When an event involves the response of multiple County departments and allied agencies which come together to manage an event, efficient information flow is critical to success and essential to meeting the expectations of the public. A Joint Information Center (JIC) is the way to achieve that information flow. 

A JIC is a group of representatives from the involved departments and agencies designated to handle public information needs. It is part of the Command Staff and is led by the Public Information Officer (PIO). It serves as the ‘hub’ for the release of timely, accurate, consistent, and useful disaster related information. During an emergency, the overall priority of emergency management agencies is to provide maximum protection to public health and property. The goal of a JIC is to provide accurate, timely, and coordinated information to the public and the media. Coordinated information means less confusion, inaccuracies, and duplication of effort. The County of Humboldt’s Joint Information Center Plan was adopted by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors on July 15, 2014.

 Sheriff Honsal speaks to staff members working in the COVID-19 JIC.

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Planning & Building

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1. What is an assessor’s parcel number?

Assessor parcel numbers are 12-digit numbers assigned by the County of Humboldt assessor for property tax purposes. Assessor parcel numbers are used by many county departments to track records and projects. A parcel number may be obtained from a property tax bill or from the Assessor’s Office by calling 707-445-7663.

2. How do I find out if my parcel is the city or in the county?

The county’s Geographic Information System (GIS) displays parcel and city boundaries. This system can be used to determine if your property is located in a city or in the unincorporated areas of the county.

3. What is a zoning classification?

All properties within the county are assigned a zoning classification. For example, many properties are assigned an R-1 or Residential 1-Family zoning classification. Like land use designations described below, zoning establishes the distribution, location, and extent of the uses of property. Zoning classifications are more specific than land use designations. For example, zoning designations specify building height and setback requirements.

Zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These documents are available from the Plans and Ordinances page.

4. What development does zoning allow?

Individual zoning classifications, commonly known as districts or designations, are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These regulations affect all residential structures such as dwellings, home additions, fences, swimming pools, and garages, as well as all commercial and other structures like offices, barns and lumber mills.

Zoning regulations also control what is allowed in specific areas of the county. For example, a property owner typically can conduct a business in a commercial area but not in a residential area except under limited conditions. Similarly, industrial uses are allowed in industrial areas and limited in agricultural areas. In Humboldt County, zoning designations increasingly allow a mixture of compatible uses, such as apartments above shops and offices.

Zoning regulations also contain combining zones and other standards may also apply to a property. A more detailed explanation of combining zones can be found below.

The purpose of the Zoning Regulations is to implement the county’s general plan in part by regulating development in accordance with this plan. At the same time, they also help to minimize conflicts resulting from incompatible uses.

Zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These documents are available from the Plans and Ordinances page.

5. What is a land use designation?

Similar to zoning designations described above, all properties within the county are also assigned a land use designation. For example, many properties are assigned an RL or Residential-Low Density designation. Land use designations are derived from the land use goals, policies, and standards of the Humboldt County general plan. Land use designations establish the distribution, location, and extent of the uses of property. Residential land use designations also establish a residential density expressed in terms of residential units per acre. Land use designations are more general than zoning classifications. Typically, land use designations focus on allowed uses whereas zoning classifications provide specific standards related to building height and setbacks. Both are used by decision-makers to determine whether a proposed use, development, or subdivision is appropriate.

Land use designations are described in the Framework Plan, Community Plans, and Coastal Plans. These documents are available from the Plans and Ordinances page.

6. What is a combining zone?

Combining zones, commonly known as overlay zones, apply additional development requirements in specific areas throughout the county. Combining zones are typically used to protect natural and visual resources, but are also used to regulate minimum parcel sizes and special uses. Sometimes combining zones add requirements and other times they modify existing requirements.

For example the R-Streams and Riparian Corridors combining zone protects creeks and streams by requiring setbacks between development and waterways.

Another example is the B-Special Building Site combining zone which increases minimum parcel size requirements. The R-1 or Residential One-Family zoning district on its own specifies a minimum parcel size of 5,000 square feet. But when combined with a B-4 Special Building Site Combining Zone, the required minimum parcel size is increased to one acre.

7. What are building setbacks?

Setbacks are required distances between the vertical walls of buildings and property boundaries. Generally, they are described as front, rear and side yard setbacks. Setbacks vary from zero to fifty feet depending on the zoning classification for the property. Typically, the front yard faces the road. However, irregularly shaped parcels or parcels that abut more than one road can have unique setback requirements.

The county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) displays parcel and zoning boundaries. This system can be used to determine the zoning for a property.

Setbacks and zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These documents are available from the Plans and Ordinances page.

8. What is the minimum parcel size?

The minimum size of a parcel is the smallest lot you can create on a property. It is an important consideration for subdivisions and lot line adjustments. The zone classification determines minimum parcel sizes.

Generally, the zoning ordinance allows development to occur on parcels that don’t meet the minimum parcel size as if they met the minimum parcel size. However, health and safety requirements other than the zone classification still apply. For example, onsite sewage disposal requires minimum parcel sizes that may differ from the zoning ordinance.

The county’s web Geographic Information System application show parcels and zoning boundaries, which can be used to determine the zoning for your property.

Minimum parcel size and zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These documents are available from the Plans and Ordinances page.

9. What permits are required to build, rebuild or remodel a house?

Construction or alteration of any residence requires a building permit from the Building Inspection division. Other permit requirements may also apply. For example, if the property is located in the coastal zone, the construction of a residence may also need a coastal development permit from the Planning division. In areas without public sewer, sewage disposal system permits are required from the Environmental Health Division. For properties along county roads, an encroachment permit may be required from Public Works. Other local, state or federal permit requirements may also apply.

Special requirements may apply to rebuilding or altering structures which do not conform to the development standards or allowed uses of the zone classification. More information on nonconforming structures can be found elsewhere on this page. For more information about which permits may apply, please contact the Planning and Building Department.

10. What’s the difference between building in the coastal zone and the inland areas?

Typically, there are more permit requirements in the coastal zone. The additional requirements protect coastal resources such as beaches, public access, dunes and recreational opportunities.

11. How do I research if a property is in the coastal zone?

The county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) displays parcel and coastal zoning boundaries. This system can be used to determine if a property is in the coastal zone.

12. Can I place a manufactured home on my property?

With a building permit, new manufactured homes are allowed by the zoning ordinance the same as other homes. Older manufactured homes are permitted in areas with a T-Manufactured Home or M-Manufactured Home combining zone. Other permits may be required. For example, if the property is located in the coastal zone, the placement of a manufactured home may need a coastal development permit.

More information on combining zones and permits to build a home can be found in this FAQ.

13. Are accessory dwelling units allowed on a property?

Accessory dwelling units (ADU), formerly known as secondary dwelling units, are permitted in many residential zoning districts. All new accessory dwelling units require a building permit from the Building Inspection Division and may require other permits from the Current Planning Division, Environmental Health division, or Public Works. In general, accessory dwelling units are encouraged in the R-1 and RS-5 Residential Single Family zoning districts. You can visit our website Humboldt ADU.org for more information.

14. How tall can a fence be built?

Fences up to six feet high are exempt from zoning setback and building permit requirements. A fence over six feet high is subject to setback requirements from property lines and requires a building permit from the Building Inspection Division. Fences along roads may have special restrictions in height and material according to the county’s Visibility Ordinance, which establishes standards to ensure adequate visibility corridors for pedestrian and vehicle safety. Contact the Department of Public Works, Land Use division at 707-445-7205 for more information on the Visibility Ordinance.

15. Are horses, chickens, goats or other domesticated animals allowed in residential zones?

In residential zones, two large animals such as horses or cows may be kept on a property that is at least one acre in size. Two medium sized animals such as goats, pigs, or sheep may be kept on a property that is at least 10,000 square feet in size. Ten small animals such as rabbits and chickens may be kept on a property that is at least 5,000 square feet in size. Crowing roosters are not allowed in residential zones. Larger parcels can accommodate more animals.

16. Can I remove trees from a property?

Tree removal involves numerous considerations including fire safety, neighborhood character, and protection of sensitive resources such as habitat. Removal of trees greater than 12 inches in diameter may require a permit from the Current Planning Division. In general, it is easier to remove trees from a property in the inland areas than in the coastal zone. For example, in residential zones, trees may be removed within 30 feet of a building pad as long as the removal does not impact a sensitive resource. However, if the residence is in the coastal zone, permits are required from the Current Planning Division. Tree removal three acres or larger in size, or in Timber Production Zones, require timber harvest plans and are regulated by the state agency Cal Fire.

Tree removal requirements depend on many factors. Contacting the Planning and Building Department prior to tree removal is recommended.

17. Can a person live in a travel trailer on a property?

Travel trailers within recreational vehicle parks may be used as a dwelling. Outside of recreational vehicle parks, travel trailers may be used as a residence in one of two ways. With a Special Permit from the Current Planning Division a travel trailer may be used for up to six months of the year in zoning districts that allow recreational uses, or, with a valid building permit, a travel trailer may be used temporarily while constructing a home.

18. How do I determine if a lot was legally created?

A lot is considered legal if it was created in accordance with the subdivision rules in effect at the time of creation and subsequent transfers of the property did not affect its shape and size. Subdivision rules have changed over time. Determining how a property was created, and tracing the chain of transfer over time can be a challenge. When the legal status of a lot is in question, the Current Planning Division can conduct a determination of legal status. For more information, please contact the Planning and Building Department.

19. Are there any easements that affect a property?

There are two types of easements. One is a recorded easement that is discovered through the title search process usually conducted by a title company at the time of property transfer. Another is a prescriptive easement which occurs when a property has been used historically for ingress and egress with or without permission. Prescriptive easements often become an issue in the review of coastal development projects where the development impacts the use of an existing trail which accesses the beach. Established and distinguishable trails, roads, or parking areas could indicate the presence of a prescriptive easement.

20. Is my property subject to flooding?

The best available mapped flood information is provided by Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) which are maintained by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) shows parcels and the flood hazard information from these maps. You may also review these maps at the Planning and Building Department.

FIRM maps have four flood hazard zones. In FIRM Flood Zone A, the property is within the mapped 100-year flood plain. This means the property is expected to flood once every 100 years on average. In FIRM Flood Zone B, the property is within the mapped 500-year flood plain. This means the property is expected to flood once every 500 years on average. In FIRM Flood Zone C, the property is within the mapped area of minimal flooding. If the parcel is located in FIRM Flood Zone D, the property is within an area of undetermined, but possible, flood hazards.

21. What is a nonconforming structure or use?

A nonconforming building or use is one which was established prior to the zoning regulations, and does not meet current development standards or the uses allowed by the zone classification. Nonconforming buildings or uses are commonly known as being "grandfathered in."

To be recognized as legal and non-conforming, the structure or use must be used continuously for the same purpose without interruption for more than two years.

Special requirements apply to nonconforming structures and uses. For more information please contact the Planning and Building Department.

22. If an old structure burns down, can it be rebuilt?

Structures with allowed uses that conform to the standards of the zone classification may be rebuilt with a building permit from the Building Inspection Division. In the coastal zone, a Coastal Development Permit from the Current Planning Division may also be required to rebuild. All state and local standards for sewage disposal must also be met when a structure is rebuilt. Structures destroyed by fire must be rebuilt within two years.

Nonconforming structures or uses may also be rebuilt in certain situations. For example, single family homes in commercial zones may be rebuilt with a building permit. However, rebuilding commercial structures in residential zones would only be allowed if the new structure is the same size as the old structure. Minor exceptions may be allowed with a Special Permit from the Current Planning Division.

23. Can a house be remodeled if it does not meet the required setbacks?

Legal, nonconforming residences may be altered or enlarged with a building permit from the Building Inspection Division if the alteration meets the required setbacks.

Alterations that do not change the footprint of a structure such as windows, siding or interior remodels are allowed with a building permit. However, when the alteration does not meet the required setbacks, a variance is required from the Current Planning Division. For more information please contact the Planning and Building Department.

24. Can a parcel be subdivided?

Subdivisions must be consistent with the minimum parcel size of the zoning classification and the maximum density of the land use designation. In cases where the zoning classification and land use designation allow for different parcel sizes or density, the most restrictive will apply. The county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) displays zoning classifications and land use designations.

For example, a parcel with an RL, Residential Low Density land use designation typically has a maximum density of seven dwellings per acre so a one acre parcel could potentially be subdivided into seven parcels. And, if the minimum parcel size allowed by the zone classification was 5,000 square feet per parcel, a seven parcel subdivision would also be consistent with zone classification. However, if the minimum parcel size of the zone classification was 10,000 square feet per parcel, only a four parcel subdivision would be allowed. For more information please contact the Planning and Building Department.

25. What is the basic process for getting a building permit?

For small scale projects such as new roofs or new electrical service, building permits can be issued the same day. These are commonly known as over the counter permits and are issued within thirty minutes or less. For other larger scale projects, building permits usually take two to three months for a typical project, and follow seven basic steps.

1) Application Submittal - At a minimum, a property owner submits a project description and plot plan to the Building Inspection Division for review. Complete construction plans are often submitted but not required at this step.

2) Preliminary Investigation - Building Division staff review the submittal for site suitability and other permit requirements. Application fees are collected at this time.

3) Pre-site Inspection - In coordination with the applicant, a Building Inspector visits the project site to confirm the features shown on the plot plan. The applicant is provided a copy of the pre-site inspection report from the Building Inspector.

4) Referrals - Once the plot plan is complete and construction plan have been received, the application is sent to other reviewing agencies such as the Environmental Health Division and Public Works Department.

5) Construction Plan Review - A Plan Checker reviews the construction plans for conformance with state building codes. This step often involves revisions to the construction plans.

6) Permit Issuance - After the referrals are returned by the reviewing agencies and construction plans have been approved, the permit may be issued to the applicant. Any final plan check and permit issuance fees are collected at this time.

7) Inspections - During construction, Building Inspectors regularly visit the project site to assure conformance with the approved construction plans.

26. What is the basic process for getting a planning permit?

Planning permits follow these basic steps.

1) Application Assistance - An applicant meets with planning staff to review the project proposal. Applicants receive an overview of the permit process and are provided with a list of application submittal requirements, estimates of permit fees and processing time.

2) Application Submittal - An applicant submits a completed application form along with copies of project plans and supplemental documents. Fees are collected at this time.

3) File Opening & Referral - Planning Division staff generate maps and other documents and send copies of the application to referral agencies for comment.

4) Staff Report - After the referrals are returned by the reviewing agencies, Planning Division Staff compiles a staff report for the decision-maker. Projects that involve environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act have additional reports documenting environmental impacts.

5) Public Notification - If required, notice of pending decisions are sent directly to surrounding property owners and published in the newspaper.

6) Decision - Depending on project type, the decision-maker can be the Director, Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors. Other than decisions made by the Director, public hearings are conducted where public testimony is received.

7) Appeals - After a decision is made, affected parties may appeal the decision within a certain time period. Appeal periods vary depending on the project type. The permit becomes effective upon completion of the appeal period. Any unpaid fees are invoiced at this time.

8) Post Approval Conditions - Most permits are approved with specific conditions. Conformance with permit conditions is coordinated between the applicant and Planning Division staff. The project is not complete until all required conditions are met.

27. What are typical fees for a planning permit?

Fees depend on project type and location. The Planning and Building Department also collects fees on behalf of other participating agencies. 

28. How do I get help applying for a planning permit?

The Planning and Building Department offers two services to assist with the planning permit application process.

1) Through the Application Assistance service, Current Planning Division staff provide direction to applicants regarding application submittal requirements, estimates of permit fees and processing time, and an overview of the permit process.

2) Through the Project Facilitation service, a Senior Planner assists with filling out the application form, provides application documents such as plot plans and compiles other essential documents.

Please see the Resource Library for more information.

29. I’m thinking about buying a property. How can I research more about it?

While the county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) is not a substitute for a complete records check, it does display a significant amount of information on specific parcels. For example, this system can be used to research if a property is in the coastal zone and show which zone classification and land use designation apply.

There are many important considerations for buying a property. The legal status of the parcel, unpermitted structures, environmental and geological development constraints, and the existence of easements or life estates are a few examples of issues that can make property transactions complex. Rigorous due diligence is advised before purchasing any property.

Prospective purchases can use the Information Request service to learn what records the Current Planning Division has for a property. 

Please see the Resource Library for more information.

30. How do I research which zones allow a particular use?

The county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) can be a helpful tool for researching which zones apply to a property. For example, this system can be used to research if a property is in the coastal zone and show which zone classification and land use designation apply.

Zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These documents are available from the Plans and Ordinances page.

31. What is the difference between a principally permitted use and a conditionally permitted use?

Typically, if a use is principally permitted in the zoning code, the use does not require a permit from the Current Planning Division. Construction of structures still require a building permit. However, if the project is located in the coastal zone, a discretionary permit from the Current Planning Division is generally required, even if a use is principally permitted.

Uses that are conditionally permitted in the zoning code always require a discretionary permit from the Current Planning Division. Examples of discretionary permits include Coastal Development Permits, Conditional Use Permits and Special Permits.

32. What is the process for annexing a parcel into a city?

The Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) is responsible for review and approval of annexations. The city, county and LAFCo work together in reviewing proposed annexations. For more information, contact LAFCo at 707-445-7508 or visit 1125 16th Street, Suite 202 in Arcata, CA 95521.

33. Does the county enforce covenants, conditions, or restrictions in subdivisions?

No. These deed restrictions are private agreements, and are enforced by the property owner. Deed restrictions can be researched through a title company or the Humboldt County Recorder’s Office.

34. Click here to return to the Planning and Building Department

Planning and Building Department

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Planning & Building - Cannabis Water Storage & Renewable Energy Grant Programs FAQ

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1. Do I need a business license to be eligible to apply?

No. The first version of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) included an error, listing a business license as one of the eligibility criteria to apply. An updated NOFA was released on August 5, 2022 which strikes the business license requirement. The NOFA featured on the webpage is the updated version.

2. Will I be taxed on grant funds awarded to me?

If the County pays you directly, that is considered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to be taxable income and you will be required to pay federal and state taxes on it.  

3. How do I know if my Measure S taxes are current?

Current means Measure S cannabis cultivation taxes billed for first installment of 2020 and all years prior, have been paid in full.

4. When does the application period open?

8:00 AM Monday, August 22, 2022

5. When is the application deadline?

5:00 PM PST Friday, September 2, 2022.  

6. Can the application form be printed and mailed or emailed?

No, only online applications are accepted.

7. What if I don’t have a computer, or I am not able to use one to file an application?

The Humboldt County Planning and Building Department office at 3015 H Street in Eureka has a computer available in the lobby for filing an application.  You will need to bring hard copies of the required documents to be uploaded: 1) scope of work, 2) line item budget, 3) plot plan, 4) notarized owner consent form if the applicant is different from the property owner, and if you operate with an Interim Permit 5) creation deed.  Department staff will assist in uploading these into the online application.

8. Can I get reimbursed for past expenses?

Funds can only reimburse a purchase or cost the applicant has incurred after approval of the grant agreement, which was January 21, 2022.

9. What if I don't have all of the required items?

In addition to completing all fields in the application form, you must provide all required attachments. Applications lacking the required attachments will not be considered for funding.

10. Why am I being required to submit IRS Form W-9 with my Application?

The County is required to report to the IRS any payments made directly to you as personal income.  The County will issue you a 1099-MISC to file with your taxes.  

11. Would the grant monies be able to support purchasing of large 10K to 15K gallon tanks that farmers can use for irrigation of their crops?

Yes, if these expenditures assist licensees in meeting annual license requirements.

12. Are permit fees for County or other agencies an allowable use of funds?

Yes, if these expenditures are needed assist licensees in meeting annual license requirements.

13. Are costs for connecting a cultivation site to PG&E eligible for the Renewable Energy System grant program?

Yes, if these expenditures assist licensees in meeting annual license requirements. A property is eligible if the commercial cannabis operation is not connected to the power grid, even if it has an existing residence or approved use that is connected.

14. Can a property owner who owns more than one property apply for more than one grant to fund improvements on multiple properties?

Yes.

15. Can a property owner who has multiple cultivation permits or licenses on one property apply for more than one grant?

Each property (legal parcel) may only receive one renewable energy grant *and* one water storage & conservation grant. Two applications for the same grant program (e.g. two applications for renewable energy systems) will not be considered on the same property.

16. How long should applicants expect to wait for a response to their application?

When an application is submitted, if the applicant requests an email copy of the form (recommended), they will almost immediately receive an email containing the submitted application form.  We anticipate that the final ranking of all the applications will be available October 21, 2022 (the Friday before the Tuesday public hearing when the Board considers the grant awards).

17. How are applications ranked?

The answers in the “Ranking Criteria” section of the application and all of the attachments will be used to rank applications.  “Yes” answers are ranked higher than “No” answers.  With the Renewable Energy System program, projects that convert the most energy use from non-renewable to renewable fuel sources are ranked highest. 

18. If there is a “first come first serve” component to funding, how will I know where my application falls in the eligibility line?

The order of application submittal will be a tie-breaker between applications that receive the same ranking from the scoring matrix. We anticipate that final ranking of all the applications will be available October 21, 2022 (the Friday before the Tuesday public hearing when the Board considers the grant awards).

19. Who decides which projects get funded?

The Board of Supervisors at a public hearing. We anticipate that the Board of Supervisors will consider funding projects at their October 25, 2022 meeting.

20. How do I challenge the ranking of my application?

You may present information in support of a request for a higher ranking to the Board of Supervisors at the public hearing when they consider the grant awards. We anticipate the Board of Supervisors will consider funding projects at their October 25, 2022 meeting.  

21. When will the Board of Supervisors make a decision on which projects get funded?

We anticipate the Board of Supervisors will consider funding projects at their October 25, 2022 meeting.  

22. How many projects will be funded?

It depends on the amounts requested in the eligible applications received.  If all the applicants requested the maximum amounts, close to 300 projects would be funded (105 renewable energy projects, 195 water storage and conservation projects).

23. If my project received Project Trellis funds for the same project, am I allowed to request funds through this program?

You may apply, but you cannot be paid/reimbursed twice for the same expenses.

24. How the grant funded projects will be monitored and work completion verified?

Applicant-submitted photographic documentation and receipts will be the primary means of verification.  Cannabis permit post approval annual inspections will also be used to verify work completion.

25. How do I know if my application will be eligible for funding?

In order to be considered for the grant funding, you must answer "yes" to all of the eligibility questions, complete all fields of the application form, and provide all requested attachments. 

26. How do I know if my parcel is a "legal parcel"

If you hold your annual permit for cannabis cultivation (i.e. your ZCC was signed by the Planning Director, your Special Permit was approved by the Zoning Administrator or your Conditional Use Permit was approved by the Planning Commission), then you have a legal parcel. The Planning and Building Department only issues permits on legal parcels.

If you hold an Interim Permit, you must submit proof of legal parcel status (e.g. a creation deed, Certificate of Subdivision Compliance, etc.) for the parcel as an attachment to your online application. This is an important step to enable staff to confirm the status of the parcel.

27. What is a "legal parcel?"

A lot is considered legal if it was created in accordance with the subdivision rules in effect at the time of creation and subsequent transfers of the property did not affect its shape and size. Subdivision rules have changed over time. In some cases determining how a property was created, and tracing the chain of transfer over time can be a costly and time consuming challenge. When the legal status of a lot is in question, an application with the Current Planning Division to conduct a determination of legal status may be needed.

28. What information must be in a Scope of Work?

Both Programs:

• who will be doing which tasks, 
• when the tasks will begin and end, and 

Water Storage Program:

• what are the expected outcomes including the methodology and calculations used to estimate the project’s quantified increase in storage and conservation

Renewable Energy Program

• what are the expected outcomes including the methodology and calculations used to estimate the project’s quantified reduction in gallons of fuel used each year by generators to provide electricity for the applicant’s cannabis cultivation

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Planning & Building - Response to Questions Received on the RFP for Website Design and Logo Design

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1. Is this an update of an existing website?

No. This is new website that is narrow in scope.

2. Will the web designer be expected to create all features for the website?

No. Most notably, the "ADU Calculator" as well as a GIS "Look up your parcel" widget will be designed separately and merely featured on the website.

3. Why are you creating a separate website from the main Humboldt County Planning and Building website?

We want to tell a story about how a constructing an ADU might positively impact the lives of landowners. We want to provide a tailored experience that reduces barriers and prompts imagination. We did not feel that integration with the main site would help us to meet these goals.

4. What is the budget for this project?

There is no formal target budget. Our purchasing policy orients the Request for Proposals process toward desired results rather than desired price point. The value per dollar spent is one of several different criteria that will be judged when looking at proposals.

5. Is there a scoring matrix?

Yes. You will find it included in the attachments on the bid page for RFP-21-04.

6. Is there a preference for local vendors?

The scoring matrix includes experience in Humboldt County or a similar region as one criterion.

7. Will we consider proposals from foreign (outside of the USA) firms?

Yes.

8. Is there preference given to women and minority owned businesses?

We solicited responses from minority and women-owned businesses consistent with the terms of the grant funding, but no preference is given in the assessment of the proposals.

9. Would we accept references from outside of the United States?

Yes, with an email address.

10. Does the county of Humboldt have a style guide?

Yes, but we are designing this outside the County website. The style guide may influence design choices during the process but are not a requirement for the site.

11. Is there an organizational preference for open-source versus Content Management System?

No. Ease of editing is strongly preferred.

12. Are there multi-lingual requirements?

The site should include google translate to Spanish at a minimum. Google translate or equivalent may be acceptable.

13. What advanced features are desired?

At a minimum, photo and video galleries and document libraries

14. Does the county prefer a platform?

We have no preference. The site must optimize user experience and be easy to adjust.

15. Do we require research on audience?

No.

16. Do we have a desired launch date?

The date is not finalized and is negotiable. We have a target launch date of October 1, 2021.

17. How many site administrators will you have?

Two members of staff would be administrators.

18. Will you require different levels of administrative permissions?

No.

19. Is there an incumbent designer for this project?

No.

20. Will the 12-14 pages be unique or template?

No determination has been made to-date.

21. Are editing and copywriting services required?

No.

22. Will one design theme be carried across the whole site?

Yes.

23. Will in-person meetings be required?

No.

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Planning & Building - Safe Parking-Safe Shelter Pilot Program

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1. What is Safe Parking and Safe Shelter?

A program that would provide safe, temporary shelter sites that accommodate vehicles (Safe Parking), or tents, cabins, or other approved structures (Safe Shelter) for people who are experiencing homelessness while they seek permanent housing.

2. How is Safe Parking – Safe Shelter different from traditional shelters?

Traditional emergency shelters serve those experiencing homelessness in buildings rather than in vehicles or temporary shelter units. The permanent structures in traditional shelters are subject to building codes.

3. Who can operate a Safe Parking or Safe Shelter Pilot?

Under this Pilot Program, a government agency, religious entity, or non-profit organization (the Provider) may operate a Safe Parking–Safe Shelter site. Any organization or private party may contribute, lease their land, or otherwise partner with the Provider for services.

4. Where is a Pilot site allowed?

In inland areas, a Safe Parking or Safe Shelter site may be permitted on parcels zoned ML – Limited Industrial, C-1 – Neighborhood Commercial, C-2 – Community Commercial, C-3 – Industrial Commercial, MU-1 – Mixed Use (Urban), MU-2 – Mixed Use (Rural), or R-3 – Residential Multiple Family. AG - Agriculture General parcels near essential services may be eligible.

5. How do I find the zoning for my parcel?

Go to the County’s desktop webGIS, or mobile webGIS application and type your 9-digit Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) or address in the search box at upper left. Click inside the parcel boundary and scroll down to the field Zoning with Combining Zones which will show the zoning designation. For more information about the zones, click on the abbreviation and go to the Principal Zones tables in Chapter 3, Coastal, or Chapter 4, lnland.

6. What services are required at the site?

The site must have sanitary facilities including toilet and hand-washing; shower facilities or access to showers; garbage containers and trash disposal services; access to a telephone for use by participants; access to charging equipment for devices; and secure storage for personal items.

7. Can the Pilot sites be on public land or private land?

Either public or private land may be used. Sites that are owned or leased by a public entity have significant operational advantages, like immunity from certain types of liability, suspension of CEQA, and suspension of certain laws and regulations.

8. Is there a limit on how many sites are allowed in the County?

The Pilot Program allows for a total of ten sites countywide.

9. How long will the Pilot Program operate?

The Pilot Program runs for 18 months from the time it became effective. That is July 7, 2022 for the Inland Program, and the date of certification for the Coastal Program.

10. What happens at the end of the Pilot Program, after eighteen months?

The Board of Supervisors may choose to extend specific zoning clearance certificates for operating sites. Otherwise, the Program expires.

11. When will Provider’s staff be present at the sites?

Staff must be present during all open hours.

12. What happens if the site becomes a nuisance?

The Director may initiate proceedings to revoke the zoning clearance certificate for a Safe Parking – Safe Shelter site if it becomes a nuisance. Revocation requires notice and a hearing.

13. Who enforces the Management Plan?

The County may enforce the Management Plan, which must be up to date and on file with the Planning Department.

14. How long can people stay at the Pilot sites?

Six months. Some Pilot types allow the Provider to extend a participant’s term after review.

15. Why can’t the shelters be permanent?

The Safe Parking-Safe Shelter Pilot is designed under the state’s Emergency Shelter law, which is defined as temporary shelter.

16. What about RVs?

The Provider determines whether the site can allow RVs based on site factors, the level of service provided, staffing, and the organization’s resources. If allowed, RVs must be operational (able to drive on and off the site under their own power).

17. Will the Safe Parking-Safe Shelter Sites have ADA access?

Yes.

18. How are complaints handled?

The Provider designates a contact person, and maintains a neighborhood outreach plan with periodic meetings. Complaints are reported to the County monthly.

19. Can Safe Parking or Safe Shelter sites be on private land?

Yes, anyone can provide land for a Safe Parking or Safe Shelter site if it meets site requirements. However, the Provider must be a government agency, religious entity, or non-profit organization.

20. If my site is correctly zoned, how do I get a zoning clearance certificate?

Apply for a zoning clearance certificate with the Planning Department. You will need:

• A Plot Plan of the site.
• A written management plan; three Model Management Plans are available through Planning and Building.  
• A Department Approval Letter from the Division of Environmental Health verifying an approved method of providing sanitation to the site.
• Review and meet the operating standards and requirements in the Pilot ordinance.

21. Where do I get a Department Approval Letter from the Division of Environmental Health?

You can use a Request for Service Form from the Division’s Documents and Forms page on their website at: https://humboldtgov.org/730/Land-Use-Program-Documents-and-Forms.

22. What is in the Plot Plan?

An example Plot Plan is available at the Planning Department and on the website (Safe Parking-Safe Shelter Plot Plan). The Plot Plan for a proposed site should contain all the elements that apply to that site. For example, if there is no stream, skip the stream buffer element. Pages 2-5 of that document list general site requirements and requirements for each of the three management plans.

23. What is Housing First?

Housing First is a philosophy and an evidence-based State mandate that prioritizes providing permanent housing to people experiencing homelessness, and includes best practices like making services voluntary; harm reduction philosophy; no withholding of services for sobriety, substance addiction, or lack of money; and low barrier strategies like accommodating pets, partners, and possessions. Even though Safe Parking and Safe Shelter are temporary solutions intended to meet the immediate needs when permanent housing is unavailable, services can still be provided using these best practices.

24. How are basic health and safety regulations ensured for Pilot sites?

Safe Parking and Safe Shelter providers must adhere to multiple layers of State and Federal regulations if they are funded through grant. If no grant funds are used, all other zoning, building, and health and safety codes still apply.

25. How is Safe Parking or Safe Shelter different from informal camps?

Pilot sites have a Provider who operates through a management plan and maintains Host-Participant agreements, has on-site staff, provides sanitation and trash collection, and connects participants with a larger system of services to help them transition to permanent housing.

26. Who makes the Management Plan?

Providers make the Management Plan using one of the three Model Plans available through the Planning Department and on the website.

27. What are the Management Plan types and how are they different?

The three Management Plans are The Low Barrier Model, Village Model, and Minimal Requirements Model. Try this to a pdf that compares the three plans.

28. Can a Safe Parking or Safe Shelter Pilot lose its zoning clearance permit?

Yes. Revocation could occur if a Pilot site is not in compliance with laws or the objective standards of the Pilot ordinance; or if a program poses harm to the health and safety of its participants or the community, or to coastal resources; or if it constitutes a nuisance as defined in Section 351-3 of the Humboldt County Code.

29. Are Safe Parking or Safe Shelter sites allowed on parcels zoned AG (general agriculture)?

Safe Parking and Safe Shelter can be permitted on an AG parcel located within one mile of services needed for sustainable living.

30. How are participants selected for the Pilot sites?

The Management Plans include a written procedure for participant intake and selection, a written participant agreement, and procedures for periodic reviews, extensions, and removals.

31. Can parking lots or unpaved areas be Pilot sites?

Yes, either, if all the site requirements and development standards are met.

32. Can existing buildings be used as Safe Parking or Safe Shelter sites?

Existing buildings used as emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness would be Emergency Shelters under the County’s code. Safe Parking and Safe Shelter encompass sheltering in vehicles, tents, or other temporary shelter types.

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Planning & Building - Shelter Cove

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1. Is this lot “buildable”?

There are many factors that determine if a lot is buildable. These include availability of water, sewer and electricity services, topography and geologic stability, proximity to archeological and environmentally sensitive areas, and utility easements. A comprehensive understanding of all of these factors is essential to determining whether a parcel is buildable.

Building in Shelter Cove can prove challenging in many ways. A parcel with steep topography located outside of the sewered area may be unable to develop a septic system meeting the requirements of the Environmental Health Division. Topography can also affect a project’s ability to meet Public Works requirements for driveway slope. To accommodate development, a parcel must provide sufficient setbacks from streams, wetlands and other habitats.

Consultation with Planning Division staff is recommended before purchasing a parcel or starting a project. Potential buyers are also encouraged to visit Shelter Cover to better understand site conditions. Consultation with professionals specializing in geologic, engineering, or biological issues may also be required when evaluating a purchase or project.

Purchasers and owners should be aware that dealing with any of these site specific issues often increases the cost of development.

2. Is this lot within the Resort Improvement District’s service area?

The Resort Improvement District (RID) is the community services district for water, sewer and electricity in Shelter Cove. All lots may be served with electricity and water. A significant number of lots are not within the sewer service area.

This general map of the community service district boundaries indicates which areas are served by sewer. Upon review of the map please note that a significant number of lots are not located within the sewer service area of the service district. Availability of sewer service for lots located near the edge of the sewer service boundary should be verified with the RID. Additionally, RID staff can advise you as to the current fees and potential logistics associated with service connections. Logistical considerations include but are not limited to distance from existing infrastructure and other lot specific considerations. The RID can be reached at 9126 Shelter Cove Road Whitethorn, CA 95589 or 707-986-7447.

Anyone interested in the development of a lot outside the sewer service area is advised to contact the Division of Environmental Health located at 100 H Street Suite 100, Eureka CA 95501 or 707-445-6215.

3. What is the zoning for this lot? Is this lot located within the Coastal Zone?

The county’s web Geographic Information System (GIS) can be a helpful tool for researching which zones apply to a property. This system can be used to determine whether a property is in the coastal zone and show which zone classification and land use designation apply.

Zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations which can be found on the Plans and Ordinances page.

4. What development does zoning allow?

Individual zoning classifications, commonly known as districts or designations, are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations. These regulations affect all residential structures such as dwellings, home additions, fences, swimming pools, and garages, as well as all commercial and other structures like offices, barns and lumber mills.

Zoning regulations also control what is allowed in specific areas of the county. For example, a property owner typically can conduct a business in a commercial area but not in a residential area except under limited conditions. Similarly, industrial uses are allowed in industrial areas and limited in agricultural areas. In Humboldt County, zoning designations increasingly allow a mixture of compatible uses, such as apartments above shops and offices.

Zoning regulations also contain combining zones and other standards may also apply to a property. A more detailed explanation of combining zones can be found in the general FAQ.

The purpose of the Zoning Regulations is to implement the county’s general plan in part by regulating development in accordance with this plan. At the same time, they also help to minimize conflicts resulting from incompatible uses.

Zoning classifications are described in the Coastal Zoning Regulations and Inland Zoning Regulations which can be found on our Plans and Ordinances page.

5. What permits are required for development in Shelter Cove?

Many types of development in Shelter Cove require a building permit. This includes grading and the construction of buildings and structures. All new development in the Shelter Cove subdivision is subject to Design Review. In most cases, if the parcel is in the Coastal Zone, a Coastal Development Permit will be required.

In addition to permit requirements, development in the Shelter Cove subdivision is affected by the "Qualified" or "Q" combining zone which prohibits the development of accessory buildings prior to development of the main residence. The qualified zone regulations also prohibit second dwelling units, temporary or recreational housing, and open storage of any material, equipment or similar items.

Anyone interested in development is advised to contact the Planning and Building Department prior to submitting a permit application. Staff can provide guidance on the application process and provide information on site-specific development

6. What is design review?

Design Review is intended to preserve and enhance architectural and recreational aspects of designated areas of the County. This includes the appearance and design of buildings, sites, structures and signs in an effort to maintain the architectural and recreational aspects of designated areas. Every lot in Shelter Cove is subject to design review.

Special Building Structural Design Standards for Shelter Cove include the requirement for a minimum building width dimension of 20 feet, a minimum 12 inch roof overhang, foundations designed for Seismic Zone IV, and no use of unfinished or galvanized siding or roofing materials.

In addition to Design Review, a Coastal Development Permit will be required for the development of properties located within the Coastal Zone. For more information on processing time frame and application requirements contact the Current Planning Division of the Planning and Building Department.

7. What are violations? Are there any violations on this parcel?

Violations refer to development or activities on a parcel done without a permit or the benefit of county review. Violations can take many different forms. Many county and state agencies track violations including the Planning and Building Department. Often, violations must be corrected prior to the approval of a building or planning permit. Anyone interested in development is advised to contact the Planning and Building Department. Staff will assist in determining if violations of building or planning regulations exist on a parcel.

8. What is the basic process for getting a building permit?

For small scale projects such as new roofs or new electrical service, building permits can be issued the same day. These are commonly known as over the counter permits and are issued within thirty minutes or less. For other larger scale projects, building permits usually take two to three months for a typical project, and follow seven basic steps.

1) Application Submittal - At a minimum, a property owner submits a project description and plot plan to the Building Inspection Division for review. Complete construction plans are often submitted but not required at this step.

2) Preliminary Investigation - Building Division staff review the submittal for site suitability and other permit requirements. Application fees are collected at this time.

3) Presite Inspection - In coordination with the applicant, a Building Inspector visits the project site to confirm the features shown on the plot plan. The applicant is provided a copy of the presite inspection report from the Building Inspector.

4) Referrals - Once the plot plan is complete and construction plan have been received, the application is sent to other reviewing agencies such as the Environmental Health Division and Public Works Department.

5) Construction Plan Review - A Plan Checker reviews the construction plans for conformance with state building codes. This step often involves revisions to the construction plans.

6) Permit Issuance - After the referrals are returned by the reviewing agencies and construction plans have been approved, the permit may be issued to the applicant. Any final plan check and permit issuance fees are collected at this time.

7) Inspections - During construction, Building Inspectors regularly visit the project site to assure conformance with the approved construction plans.

9. What is the basic process for getting a planning permit?

Planning permits follow these basic steps.

1) Application Assistance - An applicant meets with planning staff to review the project proposal. Applicants receive an overview of the permit process and are provided with a list of application submittal requirements, estimates of permit fees and processing time.

2) Application Submittal - An applicant submits a completed application form along with copies of project plans and supplemental documents. Fees are collected at this time.

3) File Opening & Referral - Planning Division staff generate maps and other documents and send copies of the application to referral agencies for comment.

4) Staff Report - After the referrals are returned by the reviewing agencies, Planning Division Staff compiles a staff report for the decision-maker. Projects that involve environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act have additional reports documenting environmental impacts.

5) Public Notification - If required, notice of pending decisions are sent directly to surrounding property owners and published in the newspaper.

6) Decision - Depending on project type, the decision-maker can be the Director, Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors. Other than decisions made by the Director, public hearings are conducted where public testimony is received.

7) Appeals - After a decision is made, affected parties may appeal the decision within a certain time period. Appeal periods vary depending on the project type. The permit becomes effective upon completion of the appeal period. Any unpaid fees are invoiced at this time.

8) Post Approval Conditions - Most permits are approved with specific conditions. Conformance with permit conditions is coordinated between the applicant and Planning Division staff. The project is not complete until all required conditions are met.

10. What are typical fees for a planning permit?

Fees depend on project type and location. The Planning and Building Department also collects fees on behalf of other participating agencies. The most current Schedule of Fees and Charges can be found here in our Brochures and Forms page. Processing fees for planning permits are collected on either a flat fee or a full cost recovery basis. Flat fees are a fixed amount whereas full cost recovery projects require a deposit and may include additional billing at project completion. Most cost recovery projects are subject to a cap of three times the initial deposit.

11. Where can I get more Information?

These links may be useful to anyone considering development in Shelter Cove:

Shelter Cove Resort Improvement District (RID) provides electric, water and sewer services for the Shelter Cove Sea Park Subdivision. The RID also manages the greenbelt areas within the subdivision.

This two part article provides information about Shelter Cove's history and development concerns:
North Coast Journal Article Part 1
North Coast Journal Article Part 2

12. Click here to return to the Planning and Building Department

Planning and Building Department

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Planning & Building - Wireless Telecommunications Facilities FAQ

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1. Why the need for more wireless antennas?

Humboldt County residents, businesses and visitors have an expectation of access to fast, reliable mobile technology. There remain significant gaps in geographic coverage in Humboldt County. Further, increased density with smaller coverage areas will improve cellular experience for any customer on a carrier's network. This benefits all residents, especially those who rely on mobile phones for internet connectivity. The development of the next generation of mobile broadband networks (5th Generation, or "5G"), also includes the use of many low-powered wireless antennas to enhance connectivity, capacity and speeds.

2. What is a small cell wireless facility?

Small cell facilities are a type of wireless broadband infrastructure. They typically take the form of small antennas (3-4 feet tall) that are placed on existing infrastructure (such as utility poles) and are accompanied by equipment cabinets installed lower on the pole.  They are relatively new and are taking the place of large cell towers (macro cell technology), which can reach over a hundred feet high and are designed to cover larger geographic areas. Small cell wireless facilities are lower-power antennas that will comprise the 5th Generation or "5G" network.

3. Are small cells safe?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in consultation with numerous other federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, developed the safety standards that govern radio frequency (RF) emissions for small cells, the technology behind 5th Generation (5G) cell service. The FCC notes that its standards “incorporate prudent margins of safety” and that “radio frequency emissions from antennas used for cellular and PCS [personal communications services] transmissions result in exposure levels on the ground that are typically thousands of times below safety limits.” Any wireless technologies deployed in the County are required to meet the FCC’s radio frequency (RF) emissions standards. 

The FCC provides information about the safety of RF emissions from wireless telecommunications facilities on its website www.fcc.gov (specifically, www.fcc.gov/engineering-technology/electromagneticcompatibility-division/radio-frequency-safety/faq/rf-safety). You can contact the FCC directly if you have concerns about RF emission standards or the safety of new wireless networks. 

Federal Communications Commission: 1-888-225-5322 

4. What are the health ramifications of 5G technology?

Any wireless technologies deployed in Humboldt County are required to meet radio frequency (RF) emissions standards set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Questions on RF emissions safety can be answered here: www.fcc.gov/general/radio-frequency-safety-0 

Federal law (the Telecommunications Act of 1996) expressly preempts state and local governments from addressing health concerns over RF emissions. This means that the County cannot deny a permit to construct a wireless facility on that basis; the County can only require the facility to comply with the emissions standards set by the Federal Communications Commission. As part of the County’s review of an application for a wireless facility, the County requires an RF emissions study for each type of equipment. 

You can contact the Federal Communications Commission directly if you have concerns about RF emission standards or the possible health ramifications of new 5G networks. 

5. Where can small cell antennas be installed?

The County does not direct the placement of wireless industry deployments. Carriers determine their network engineering needs and where to place equipment to meet current and projected capacity demands. Prior to receiving a permit, the carrier will have to meet certain engineering, safety and aesthetic standards. The Planning and Building Department has proposed design standards to ensure that potential aesthetic impacts are not significant.

6. When will we get 5G in Humboldt County?

5th Generation cell service or "5G" promises broadband speeds up to ten times faster than the 4G towers currently providing service to much of Humboldt County. 5G antennas are being deployed by many carriers in the largest cities and towns in the country. It is impossible to say exactly when carriers will begin deploying the antennas in Humboldt County, but we will likely see this technology in the coming years.

7. Can residents have a say in the placement of wireless antennas?

While the County reviews and approves the location of individual wireless applications, it must do so within parameters established by both federal and state laws that severely limit the County’s discretion. The County may require an analysis of potential alternative sites, but the County does not direct the placement of antennas.

Collectively, the federal and state laws prohibit cities and counties from:

1. Denying a carrier the ability to provide service either through explicit prohibitions (example: banning new wireless facilities) or through actions that effectively prohibit service. 

2. Denying wireless applications based on health concerns, such as those expressed about radio frequency emissions. 

3. Stalling or failing to make a decision.  The Telecommunications Act and subsequent Federal Communications Commission orders impose a short time frame, often referred to as a shot clock, for a city or county to review a wireless application.  Failure for a city or county to act results in the application being automatically approved without the ability to impose conditions of approval.

4. Denying a carrier from using the public right-of-way to install their equipment. 

8. Can the County deny a wireless facility on the basis of aesthetics?

Yes. The County can deny projects on the grounds that it does not meet design standards. However, federal law (the Telecommunications Act of 1996) does not allow the County to enact a moratorium or prohibition on the installation of wireless equipment on the basis of aesthetics or for any other reason.

9. Why does the proposed ordinance streamline the review process for some types of facilities?

The processes proposed by the Planning and Building Department are designed to ensure compliance with the time frame imposed by the federal and state governments. Failure to meet required time frames (or "shot clocks") means that the application is automatically approved – without the ability for the County to impose conditions of approval. 

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Probation

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1. Can I find out who is on probation?

Due to regulations regarding confidentiality, the public is unable to access this information. The Probation Department can accept information from the public to assist in supervising cases and effectively protecting the community. Crime victims are advised when a violation of probation occurs.

2. Do I have a warrant?

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office can be contacted to find out if you have an active warrant for your arrest. Warrant information can be obtained over the phone at 707-445-7251, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m., or at the main counter at the Sheriff's Department located at
826 4th St.
Eureka, CA 95501.

3. Where is Juvenile Delinquency Court held, and when?

Currently, most Juvenile Delinquency Court cases are heard in the Northern California Regional Facility conference room beginning at 1:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The Regional Facility conference room is located behind Humboldt County Probation Department at 2002 Harrison Avenue in Eureka.

When arriving for court, please be prepared to wait until your case is called. It is possible this wait may extend into the later morning hours. There is seating and bathroom facilities in the Regional Facility lobby. You must be present at the time your case is called. It is also possible that after an appearance before the court you will be directed to see a probation officer at the main Probation Department, located in front of the Regional Facility.

Juvenile Delinquency Court cases that are calendared for 8:30 a.m. are held on the 2nd floor of the Courthouse, located at
825 5th St.
Eureka, CA 95501.

4. Can I get a copy of a probation report?

The release of probation records is covered under the confidentiality provisions of Penal Code Section 1203.05 and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 827 (California Law ).

Adult matters: Generally, reports in adult matters may be inspected or copied by any person for a period of 60 days from the date judgment is pronounced or probation is granted, or from the date of any subsequent accusatory pleading being filed. The court may also order or authorize persons who have petitioned the court for copies after this 60 day period. For persons not on probation, copies may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court located at the county courthouse. Probationers may request to review reports concerning themselves at any time and may obtain copies from their probation officer upon request.

Juvenile matters: Juvenile reports may be inspected by the minor who is the subject of the proceeding and the minor's parents/guardian, as well as agencies stipulated by law or other persons specifically authorized by the juvenile court judge. Copies of reports may be requested from the juvenile's attorney. Otherwise, these reports are not open or available to the general public without the filing of a petition and approval of the juvenile court.

5. What is the difference between adult formal supervised probation and "court probation"?

Court probation, or summary probation, is granted for most misdemeanors and some felony law violations. These cases are not supervised by the Probation Department. Any violations of summary probation are filed by the District Attorney's office.

Formal supervised probation is granted most often for felony law violations. These cases are supervised by the Probation Department, with a probation officer assigned to monitor the offender in the community and advise the court of any violations of probation.

6. How can I get an early termination from probation?

If you are on adult probation and you want to be terminated from probation early you must have completed all requirements of probation such as treatment programs and community service work, have all fines, fees, and restitution paid in full and not have any negative law enforcement contact for a period of 1 year. If you meet the above requirement you will need to contact your attorney and have a court hearing scheduled. The court will determine at the hearing whether or not you will get terminated from probation early.

If you are on juvenile probation you will not have a set probation term. However, to expedite termination of probation you will need to complete all requirements of probation, and pay all fines and restitution in full.

7. What are my rights to possess firearms if I'm on probation?

Persons on probation for any felony or specified violent misdemeanors or persons who have a specific weapons restriction as a condition of probation, may not possess or have under their custody and control any firearm whatsoever (See PC 29800-29825, 29900 and WI 8100, 8103 for details.California Law). .

Once the probation term has been successfully completed, certain actions must be taken to restore one's right to possess a firearm:

• Petition the court pursuant to Penal Code Section 1203.4 (California Law) and be granted a change of plea and dismissal of conviction;
• Petition the court for a certificate of rehabilitation, and get approved;
• Petition the Governor and receive a full and unconditional pardon;
• Petition the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms for restoration of firearms rights, and get approved.

8. What can I do with an out-of-control teen?

You are not alone! Many parents struggle with the challenges of raising teenagers. Here are some ideas of people and services you can access to assist your teen through these difficult years.

9. What is the difference between adult probation, adult parole, and Post Release Community Supervision?

County probation is a sentence ordered by a superior court judge usually instead of, but sometimes in addition to, serving time in local jail. It allows the convicted person to live in their community, sometimes under the supervision of a county probation officer, for a specified period of time. Depending upon the circumstances and the seriousness of the crime, the typical probation term lasts from 1-5 years, but may be longer. Violation of probation terms, or commission of a new law violation while on probation, can result in local jail time or a commitment to state prison

State Parole is a conditional release of a prison inmate after serving all or part of a prison sentence. To be eligible for parole, an inmate must have been committed to prison for a serious or violent offense, been determined to be a high risk sex offender, or be a 2 strike offender. Parole is managed by the State Department of Corrections.

Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS) is a conditional release of a prison inmate after serving all or part of a prison sentence. Inmates who do not meet the criteria for State Parole are placed under the supervision of a County Agency. In Humboldt County, that agency is the Humboldt County Probation Department.

10. How do I get my adult record expunged, get a certificate of rehabilitation, and a pardon?

Learn how you can get your adult record expunged, get a certificate of rehabilitation, and a pardon.

11. How do I get my juvenile records sealed?

Juvenile records aren't sealed automatically, they must be ordered sealed by the juvenile court. To begin the process, contact the Probation Department to request a Juvenile Record Sealing packet. Once the packet is returned to Probation, a probation officer will interview you, conduct an investigation, and provide a report to the court recommending whether or not your record should be sealed. You will be notified by the Probation Department of the date and time of the court hearing. There is $150 non-refundable application fee for record sealing due at the time the packet is returned to the Probation Department (a fee waiver may be granted by the court depending upon your financial situation).

If the court orders your records sealed, a copy of the order will be sent to all agencies named in the order instructing them to seal their records. The agencies will notify the court of compliance and when all agencies report they have complied with the order, the records are considered sealed.

If the court does not order your records sealed, you can complete another Juvenile Record Sealing packet at a later date.

You must go through this process for each county in which you have a record.

12. When can my child come home from Juvenile Hall?

If your child is detained in the Humboldt County Juvenile Hall, he/she will appear before the juvenile court for a detention hearing. During the hearing, the judge will determine if your child needs to remain detained or if he/she can be released. If the court determines your child may be released, the court can order your child released outright or the court can authorize the release at the discretion of the probation officer. If your child is authorized to be released at the discretion of the probation officer, the probation officer will review the case and you will be notified if/when your child is to be released.

If your child is to be released on home supervision, with or without the electronic monitor, your child will need to remain at home at all times unless at school or prior approval has been given by the home supervision officer. To expedite your child's release on the electronic monitor, all accessory telephone services such as caller ID, call forwarding, call waiting, answering machine, computer modem, and/or fax machine will need to be removed from your telephone line.

13. Can I vote while on parole, probation, post release community supervision (PRCS) or mandatory supervision?

Yes, In California, you have the right to vote while you are on parole, probation, PRCS, or mandatory supervision. You must be a United States citizen, a resident of California, and at least 18 years of age. To vote in the next election, you must register to vote at least 15 days before the election.
For more information, contact the Humboldt County Office of Elections and Voter Registration at

2426 6th Street

Eureka, CA 95501

Ph: 707-445-7481

More Info: California Secretary of State: Voting Rights for Californians with Criminal Convictions or Detained in Jail or Prison

Sec of State's Voting Rights-Incarcerated Persons

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Probation - Adult Drug Court

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1. Who is eligible for the Adult Drug Court Program?

• Current felony conviction
• Court ordered supervised probation
• History of alcohol and / or substance abuse
• Ordered by the court to participate in Drug Court

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Probation - Adult Targeted Case Management

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1. Who is eligible for the Adult Targeted Case Management Program?

• Probationer is 18 years of age or older
• Court has ordered supervised probation
• Medical and / or mental condition exists
• In need of assistance in accessing and / or coordinating medical, social, and other services

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Probation - Community Service Work Program

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1. Who gets community service work?

Courts or a probation officer will decide if community service work is an appropriate sentence and specify the number of hours to be performed. The court or community hours.

2. What happens at the interview?

A criminal history inquiry will be made and individual skills, abilities, needs, and availability will be assessed before placement at an approved work site. Specific requirements for work will be discussed. Types of work include but are not limited to

• Clerical
• Child care
• Activities with the elderly
• Library work
• Indoor/outdoor maintenance
• Park and janitorial work
• Work in thrift stores

Some evening an weekend assignments are available. Volunteers are responsible for providing their own transportation and child care while performing hours. Hours will be set according to availability, a minimum of 5 hours weekly is required. Work will be supervised, documented and evaluated on a regular basis.

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Probation - Healthy Alternatives for Youth & Families Program

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1. Who is eligible for the Healthy Alternatives for Youth and Families Program?

Adjudged ward of the Juvenile Court pursuant to 602 WIC:

• Between 11 and 18 years of age
• Who has a primary mental health diagnosis under DSM-IV criteria other than substance abuse or developmental disorder,
• That resides in the Greater Humboldt Bay Area (Arcata, Eureka, Ferndale, Fortuna, and Rio Dell, as well as those living in unincorporated areas in this general region)
• Whose family may benefit from participation in Functional Family Therapy
• Whose detention or 602 WIC petition was filed on or after July 1, 2006

Healthy Alternatives program participation requires a court order.

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Probation - Juvenile Court Information For Parents

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1. My child came home after being arrested. What will happen now?

• Your county’s probation department will probably get in touch with you and ask your child to come in for a meeting with a probation officer.
• You will receive a Notice to Appear (a specific date and time you must show up at the probation department).
• In very serious cases, your child may receive a Notice to Appear directly in juvenile court.

2. My child was arrested and taken into custody. What can the arresting officer do?

The officer may do 1 of 5 things:

• Let your child go home to you or accompany him or her home or back to the place of arrest, and maintain a record of the contact.
• Refer your child to a community agency providing shelter, care, diversion, or counseling.
• In some counties, require your child to return to the police station rather than to the probation department (this is sometimes referred to as “cited back.”)
• Give you and your child a Notice to Appear, telling you what you and your child must do and when you must do it.
• Shortly after the arrest, lock up your child in the probation juvenile hall (this is called “detention”). If your child is locked up or held by the officer, your child has the right to make at least 2 phone calls no later than 1 hour after arrest. One of the phone calls must be a completed call to a parent, guardian, or a completed call to an attorney, if the officer is going to question your child about what happened, the officer must also tell your child that he or she has the right to remain silent, that anything your child says will be used against him or her, that he or she has a right to be represented by a lawyer, and that the court will appoint a lawyer if your child cannot afford one. These are called Miranda rights. If the officer is not going to question your child, the officer will not necessarily explain these rights.

If your child is locked up or held somewhere, the officer must take immediate steps to notify you that your child is in custody and where your child is being held. When you are notified, the officer must also tell you about each of the Miranda rights that your child has.

3. If we get a Notice to Appear, what will happen at the meeting with the probation officer? What should I do?

If your child doesn’t already have a lawyer, you may wish to contact the public defender or a private attorney for advice. One of 3 things may happen at the meeting.

• The probation officer can reprimand your child and then let your child go home without getting the juvenile court involved.
• The probation officer may offer your child a voluntary program instead of going to court. Each county is different and programs vary, but generally if your son or daughter successfully completes the program (for example, attending special classes or substance abuse counseling, performing community service, cleaning graffiti, or going to a youth or peer court if your county has one), the juvenile court does not need to become involved. If you and your child agree to a voluntary program, the probation department may ask you to sign an informal contract describing what you and your child must do. It can last up to 6 months.
• The probation officer can refer your child’s case to the district attorney, who will decide whether or not to file a petition.
  

4. Do I need a lawyer for myself?

No, not usually. If your child has a lawyer, the lawyer represents your child and not you.

5. Does my child need a lawyer?

Yes, and your child has a right to a lawyer who is both effective and prepared.

If you cannot afford to hire a lawyer for your child, the court will appoint a lawyer to represent your child.

6. My child’s probation officer told me that the district attorney will be filing a petition. What does that mean?

A petition asks for the court to become involved in your child’s life. The petition says what the state believes your child did. Later, a judge will decide if what the petition says is true.

There are 2 types of petitions. They are named after numbered sections of California law:

• 601 Petition. A 601 Petition is filed by the probation department and says that a child has run away, skipped school, violated curfew, or regularly disobeyed his or her parents. If the court finds that the petition is true, the youth may become a “ward” of the court and is known as a “status offender.”
• 602 Petition. A 602 Petition is filed by the district attorney’s office and says that a child has committed an act that would be considered against the law when an adult does it. This includes felonies such as auto theft, burglary, selling a controlled substance (drugs), rape, and murder, and misdemeanors such as simple assault and drunk driving.

The penalty for the offense depends on the type of offense.

7. What will happen if my child is taken to juvenile hall after the arrest?

It is up to the probation officer whether or not to keep your child in custody. The probation officer may let your child go home without asking the district attorney to file a petition. The probation officer may allow your child to go home and still refer the case to the district attorney, who will decide whether or not to file a petition. There may be restrictions placed on your child as a condition of being allowed to go home.

If the probation officer keeps your child locked up, the law requires that a petition be filed very quickly, usually within 48 hours from the time the child is taken into custody by the police. Then there must be a detention fearing the next day that the court is in session. The courts are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

8. How long could my child have to stay in juvenile hall?

At the detention hearing, the judge could decide your child must be kept in juvenile hall until the next hearing. The different hearings are described in question 12. The judge may continue to order your child to remain in juvenile hall until the case is finished.

9. Can I visit my child in juvenile hall?

Usually, but you should contact the probation officer to find out when you can see your child.

10. What is the role of the probation officer?

The probation officer is responsible for writing a report to the juvenile court judge about your child. The report tells the judge what the probation department thinks would be best for your child if the judge finds that your child committed the crime. The report also includes your child’s prior arrest record; a description of the current offense; statements from your child, his or her family, and other people who know your child well; a school report; and a statement by the victim. The probation officer presents this report at the disposition hearing.

If your child is placed on probation, the probation officer will enforce the court’s orders. This means monitoring your child to make sure he or she obeys the law and follows the terms of probation. The probation officer will also encourage your child’s positive involvement in school and participation in job training, counseling, and community programs. Depending on the situation, the probation officer could meet with your child as often as twice a week or as little as once a month.

If your child is in custody, and the judge decides your child should not go home right after the case is finished, the probation officer’s job is to find an appropriate placement for your child. This could be with a relative, in a county-based foster or group home, or in a private institution.

11. How will my child and I find out about the court hearings?

If your child is locked up you should get the petition and notice of the hearing, personally or by mail, as soon as possible after the petition is filed and at least 5 days before the hearing. If the hearing is less than 5 days after the petition is filed, you will get notice at least 24 hours before the hearing. Your child has the right to get notice if he or she is at least 8 years old.

If your child is not in custody, you should get notice of the petition and hearing personally or by first-class mail at least 10 calendar days before the hearing.

12. What hearings will my child go to in juvenile court?

There are several types of hearings.

13. What will happen at the jurisdiction hearing?

• In many cases, the child will admit all or part of the petition.
• Your child’s attorney will advise your child as to whether or not to make an admission.
• If there is a contested hearing, or “trial,” the district attorney will present the case against your child. Then your child’s attorney will present your child’s defense. Based on this evidence, the judge makes a “true finding,” this means that there is enough evidence for the judge to find beyond a reasonable doubt that your child did commit the acts.
• After a “true finding,” the judge schedules a disposition hearing to decide what the consequences will be.
• If there is not enough evidence for the judge to find that your child committed the act he or she is accused of, the case will be dismissed. If your child is in custody, he or she will be released.

14. What will happen at the disposition hearing?

The judge will decide 1 of 6 things.

• Your child may remain at home on probation supervision for up to 6 months.
• Your child may be ordered home under the formal supervision of a probation officer. Formal supervision is set up by the judge.
• Your child may be places on probation and ordered to live in a relative’s home, a private residential group home, or an institutional program.
• Your child may be placed on probation and sent to a probation camp or ranch.
• Your child may be committed to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). (But if your child is tried as an adult, the adult criminal court could sentence your child to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Adult Operations (see questions 19 and 20).
• As a parent, you may be ordered to comply with conditions such as counseling or parent training.

15. May I be present at the hearings?

Yes. In fact, state law requires you to be present. One thing the judge will decide is what will be best for your child. Depending on the offense, if you can show that your child will listen to you and follow your rules, and that you will hold your child accountable and be supportive at home, the judge may order that your child be released to your custody.

16. May I speak at the hearings?

You may speak if the judge asks you questions directly, or if you are called as a witness. You may ask to speak to the judge. Generally, your child’s lawyer will speak for your child. The district attorney will speak for the state. The probation department may be called as a witness.

17. Do we have the right to an interpreter?

Your child has a constitutional right to an interpreter. You may also have a right to an interpreter and should ask for one if you need one.

18. May the victim attend and speak at the disposition hearing?

Yes. A crime victim’s bill of rights allows the victim to come to the hearing. The victim, and his or her parents if the victim is a child, will get notice of the hearing.

19. When can my child be tried as an adult?

For some felonies, your child can be tried and sentenced as an adult if your child is at least 14 years old. The case would be moved to adult court. There are major differences between juvenile and adult criminal court procedures and philosophies. If the district attorney requests that your child be tried as an adult, is it extremely important to talk to your child’s attorney about all of the very serious consequences of your child’s situation.

20. What felonies are likely to be tried in adult court?

A child can be tried in adult court for a wide range of offenses. These are violent and serious offenses, including murder and attempted murder, arson of an inhabited building, robbery with a dangerous or deadly weapon, some forms of rape, some forms of kidnapping and carjacking, some felonies involving firearms, certain controlled substance offenses, and certain violent escapes from a juvenile detention facility.

21. Where will my child go if he or she is sent to the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ)?

Your child will first go to a reception center for 30 to 90 days. After that, your child will be sent to 1 of 9 correctional facilities or 1 of 4 youth camps. These are the 3 reception centers where staff will assess your child’s education and treatment needs.

• The Northern Youth Correctional Reception Center and Clinic Preston Youth Correctional Facility and Reception Center and Clinic in Ione. Ph: 209-274-8000
• The Southern Youth Correctional Reception Center and Clinic in Norwalk Ph: 562-868-9979
• The Ventura Youth Correctional Facility (for girls) Ph: 805-485-7951

You may visit your child during visiting hours, which are on Saturdays or Sundays for 2 to 3 hours at a time, depending on the reception center. The Ventura reception center for girls allows visits for up to 6.5 hours at a time. You may not call your child at the reception center, but you may write to your child. Your child may make collect calls to you from a pay phone.

22. When would my child go to the Division of Adult Operations instead of the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ)?

Your child can be sentenced to adult prison (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Division of Adult Operations) if he or she is tried as an adult (see questions 19 and 20). If your child will be tried as an adult, is extremely important to talk to your child’s attorney about all the very serious consequences of your child’s situation.

• Between the ages of 14 and 16, your child must stay at DJJ even if he or she is sentenced to adult prison.
• If your child is at least 16, he or she may serve the entire term at DJJ only if the term will end before he or she reaches age 21. If your child’s term will last past age 21, then your child could be at DJJ until age 18, and then would automatically be transferred to the Division of Adult Operations on his or her 18th birthday. The court could also order your child directly to the Division of Adult Operations at age 16.

23. Am I financially liable for my child’s acts?

Yes. You may also have to pay restitution to the victim if your child is ordered to pay. Restitution money is to pay for the victim’s losses caused by your child’s illegal conduct. Examples of restitution might include the value of stolen or damaged property, medical expenses, and lost wages.

24. Will I be required to pay my child’s fees?

Yes. Unless you have been the victim of your child’s crime, you will receive a bill from the county for your child’s attorney fees. You will be billed for probation department services fees (such as food and laundry while your child was in juvenile hall), and placement costs for keeping your child in state placement such as the Division of Juvenile Justice, a probation camp, or an out-of-home placement. These costs can be expensive. You will have a chance to show how much, if any, of these costs you are able to pay. The Juvenile Court does not make this determination.

25. Can my child’s juvenile records be sealed?

This is very important for your child, but will not happen automatically, and not all records may be sealed including some Department of Motor Vehicles convictions. You child must file a petition to request this.

Your child can file a petition after he or she turns 18. Your child can also file a petition 5 years (in some cases, 6 years) after everything connected with his or her case is over. The probation department will make sure that your child was not involved in any later crime. If the petition to seal the records is granted by the court, all records of the case and arrest will be ordered sealed.

Ask your child’s attorney or probation officer for help.

26. Can my child’s juvenile court record be used against him or her as an adult?

Under the 3-strikes law, certain serious or violent felonies committed as a juvenile can be counted as strikes and used against your child in the future. This can happen even if the Juvenile Court record has been sealed.

27. What should I do as a parent?

All your parental responsibilities continue when your child receives a citation. You may want to contact a lawyer for assistance.

If your child is placed in a group home or committed to a probation camp or the Division of Juvenile Justice, do your best to maintain contact with your child and support the positive activities he or she does there. Understand what is happening in your child’s life so that you can prepare for his or her return. Explore ways of creating a protective and supportive environment for your child’s return to school or work. Develop strategies to hold your child accountable for his or her behavior.

Contact your child’s parole agent or probation officer to ask for referrals to community organizations that can assist you, such as parent groups or counseling. Your school district and local hospital or mental health department may also offer programs.

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Probation - Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act

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1. Who is eligible for the Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act Program?

• Felony conviction for Possession of a Controlled Substance (listed under HS 11054-11058 - CA Law ) or Transportation for Personal Use
• Free of prison custody for the past 5 years
• No convictions for a Serious / Violent felony (PC 1192.7(c) or PC 667.5(c) - CA Law) within the 5 years of the current non-violent drug possession offense
• No conviction for a felony other than a non-violent drug possession offense within the past 5 years
• No conviction for a misdemeanor involving physical injury or the threat of physical injury to another person within the last 5 years
• No concurrent ineligible charges other than non-violent drug possession offenses
• No Use of a Firearm in connection to a non-violent drug possession offense
• Must agree to drug treatment as a condition of Proposition 36 probation

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Public Defender

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1. What are my rights if I've been arrested/charged with a crime?

Contact the Public Defenders office for this information at 707-445-7634

2. Who can get advice from the Law Offices of the Public Defender?

Attorneys from the Law Offices of the Public Defender are authorized to assist and represent people in certain situations if they are "indigent". That means that we can help you if you lack the current ability to hire an attorney for your particular situation. If you have no income or assets you probably qualify for our assistance. If you have some income or assets, a determination will have to be made to see if you meet the definition of "indigent" in your particular case or situation.

3. Are Public Defenders real attorneys?

Yes. All of our attorneys are fully certified members of the State Bar of California.

4. What do Public Defender's do?

The Humboldt County Public Defender provides legal representation to indigent clients who are charged with the commission of a criminal offense alleged to have been committed in this county.

The office also represents minors against whom delinquency petitions have been filed in the juvenile courts of Humboldt County, and clients who are the subject of conservatorship proceedings in the Mental Health departments of the Superior Court.

The Public Defender does not represent people in family court, traffic court or on civil matters.

If you have any concern about talking to the police you can always request time to consult with an attorney before having any conversation with them. You have a right to speak to an attorney. The law requires that you be provided an attorney before and during any questioning at no expense to you if you cannot afford to hire one. You should not give up this right merely because the people questioning you ask you to or because it may take more time to complete the interview.

5. How do I get a Public Defender?

You must attend the first court appearance as instructed by the court, District Attorney's office, probation department, or other law enforcement. At your first court appearance the judge will ask you if you have an attorney or if you need a Public Defender. You may ask for a Public Defender at that time. The judge will give you further instructions on filling out a financial form to provide proof that you are indigent. That means that we can help you if you lack the current ability to hire an attorney for your particular situation. If you have no income or assets you probably qualify for a Public Defender. If you have some income or assets a determination will have to be made to see if you qualify as indigent for your particular situation.

6. Are all "appointed attorneys" employees of the law offices of the Public Defender?

No. In the County of Humboldt there are 3 separate Public Defender’s Offices, Humboldt County Public Defender, Conflict Counsel, and Alternate Counsel. These offices are assigned by the court according to a client's last name and numeric case digits. The courts and the county have also contracted with a number of lawyers that are appointed when none of these Public Defender offices can assist you. Those attorneys are the ones the courts generally appoint if one of the three Public Defender offices cannot participate in your particular case.

In some cases the court will appoint attorneys who are not members of our office. This is generally only done after the Public Defender determines that this office should not participate in your particular case. Usually this is done on the basis of what is known as a "conflict of interest". There are many ways that this can come up, but usually it arises when more than one person who needs the assistance of an attorney is involved in the same situation. An attorney isn't allowed to represent two people who may have conflicting interests in a situation. For this reason the court appoints separate lawyers from different offices.

7. If my ability to speak, read, or understand English is limited can you still help me?

Yes. You are entitled to the full assistance of an attorney. This means that you will need to be able to communicate fully with that attorney at all times. For this reason we can help you obtain the services of an interpreter in your native language if necessary. You should never attempt to rely on a language that doesn't give you full understanding of what is happening in your case. If you have any language problem, please make sure to tell the attorney that is assisting you that you need this special help. For the hearing impaired, augmented services including sign language interpretation can also be obtained to assist you.

8. What type of support staff does the Public Defender employ in the defense of its clients?

The Law Offices of the Public Defender for the County of Humboldt employs support personnel. These include professional investigators, and clerical personnel. In addition to these, we routinely hire additional support, such as experts and specialists in cases where they are necessary.

9. How does a criminal case get started?

Usually a case starts with the police taking an initial report from some one. They then conduct an investigation and usually turn their information over to the Office of the District Attorney or other similar prosecutorial agency. Staff at that office will review the information to determine if a case should be filed and what charges should be included. Once that determination is made a formal paper is filed with the courts to start the case. Read More about Criminal Cases.

10. What happens to the information I give the Public Defender's office?

All information which you give to our staff while you are our client is completely confidential. When you speak to one of our attorneys, investigators, or any other staff member you are fully protected by the attorney-client relationship and only under very extreme circumstances can we give out any information you give us. In most circumstances we can never release any information you give us unless you consent specifically to its release.

11. What's going to happen to me in court?

This depends on the type of case or situation that we are helping you with. Since the bulk of our cases relate to someone being investigated for or charged with a crime, that will be discussed most fully here. If you have a question about another type of case, you should contact our offices and discuss your questions with attorneys who handle your type of situation. Read More about what happens in court.

12. Someone called the police about me and now they want to drop the charges, why are the police and the prosecutor charging me?

The decision of whether to file charges and how to prosecute those charges is not in the hands of any citizen. The power to charge criminal cases is in the government's control through their prosecuting agency. Once a person makes a complaint or starts an inquiry, that person does not control the process, although they may still give input to the prosecutor and the court as the case proceeds.

13. What is a felony charge?

Felonies are the most serious criminal cases. A case is a felony if the punishment can include state prison. This differs from a misdemeanor (or less serious) case, in which the punishment is, at most, a year in county jail. Felony charges range from drug, burglary and car theft cases up to rape, arson and murder. Although some felonies are punishable by life in prison, most cases have fixed sentences. Just because someone is charged with a felony does not necessarily mean he or she will be sent to state prison. The possible penalties depend on the charges and facts of your case, and should be discussed with your lawyer. The law of sentencing in felony cases is very complex and has been growing more difficult each year. 

14. What is a misdemeanor charge?

Misdemeanor charges are generally lesser offenses that carry no more than one year in a county jail facility. Simple thefts, simple assault, battery, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be examples of misdemeanor charges. A case that has misdemeanor charges follows certain rules. A person charged with misdemeanors has a right to a jury trial.

15. Can I expunge my case?

The Public Defender's Office may be able to assist you with expunging your criminal cases. Please contact the office for more information.

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Public Works - Land Use-Survey

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1. Will the County survey my property?

No, County personnel do not provide this service. In order to locate corners of private property, a professional land surveyor in private practice needs to be hired. To find a professional land surveyor, one can search the internet, Yellow Pages, or obtain a recommendation from a friend or relative. In addition, the Board of Registration for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists publishes a consumer guide to Professional Engineering and Professional Land Surveying (http://www.bpelsg.ca.gov/pubs/consumer_guide.pdf). Sometimes professional land surveyors are referred to as licensed land surveyors, land surveyors, or simply as surveyors.

A surveyor will need some basic information about where your property is located, and will ask you some questions about why you think you need a surveyor. The surveyor will then need to do some preliminary research in order to provide you with an estimate to provide services. All surveys are different and are therefore different in cost. A surveyor needs to research existing surveys in the area, obtain your deed and all adjoiner’s deeds before he can even get started preparing for the field work. There is often office work related to analyzing the deeds and maps before going to the field to determine what monuments to look for and where to look. The field work entails searching for existing monuments that may be relevant to your deed, making measurements to those monuments, and relating those to fences and other land features around your property. The fieldwork is often only a small part of the total work involved in a boundary survey. The information obtained from the field survey is further analyzed in the office, calculations are done and boundary decisions made, sometimes requiring additional fieldwork to locate more monuments. Once this analysis is complete, monuments can be set and a Record of Survey and/or Corner Records be prepared and filed with the County Surveyor.

A surveyor has to treat all boundaries impartially. The surveyor cannot sway results in favor of his client. This could be prosecuted as an ethical and professional violation of surveying practice requirements. The surveyors job is to locate the true boundary on the ground according to legal principles of the profession. This sometimes results in the client being surprised or unhappy with the location as discovered through a field survey. A surveyor does not have the authority to “correct” such a survey, but can offer possible remedies if a boundary disagreement arises with a neighbor or if deed points and lines are found to fall in unfavorable locations, such as through existing structures. To learn more about these possible remedies, read about Lot Line Adjustments and Boundary Corrections on this website.

Revised 09/26/2014

2. Where do I obtain a survey map of my property?

Parcel Maps and Final (Tract) Maps, and Record of Survey maps are filed with the County Recorder. In addition, the County Surveyor also maintains a library of unrecorded survey maps. In addition, title companies and surveyors may also have collections of unrecorded survey maps.

Not all properties have necessarily been surveyed. Modern laws and codes generally require a survey for the creation of new properties, but not in all cases. Older properties could be created via deed without benefit of a survey. Research of county records is required in order to determine if an existing map or survey of your property exists. Sometimes a map can be found with minimal research; sometimes it can be more difficult and time consuming. Humboldt County does not yet have a state of the art computerized research system for land records like some metropolitan or urban counties do. The County Surveyor can offer some minimal assistance in getting started locating a survey in the county records, but ultimately a private surveyor may need to be hired. This is a task that a private surveyor is accomplished at and has resources and experience in doing.

revised 09/26/2014

3. Will the County help settle a boundary disagreement with my neighbor?

No. The County Surveyor does not survey private property boundaries unless directed to do so by a court and cannot take a side in a boundary disagreement or locate a private property line that may be in question. The County Surveyor can help facilitate solutions if the parties are in agreement in pursuing a resolution to an uncertain, indeterminate, or disputed boundary. These still require the involvement of a private surveyor, and typically will involve a “lot line adjustment” or a “boundary correction” for adjusting or correcting lines. Lot line adjustments are applied for through the County Planning & Building Department and involve adjusting lines to a location the parties agree to. Boundary Corrections are applied for through the County Surveyor and are typically used to conform deeds to existing occupation. In both cases, a private surveyor needs to be involved to create new descriptions and help with any deeds as necessary to complete the process. Setting new property corners and filing a Record of Survey are also required in most instances. In addition to the fees the private surveyor may charge, County fees are required for lot line adjustment and boundary correction applications as well as the review of all associated documents and maps that may be required to complete the adjustment or correction.

Revised 09/26/2014

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SB2 - Building Homes & Jobs Act

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1. What is the new Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee?

The new fee is an additional charge passed by the legislature and signed by the governor to fund Building Homes and Jobs Act. The fee is assessed at the time documents are recorded into the public record with the County Recorder’s Office.

2. Does the new Recording Fee replace previous charges for recording?

No, the new Recording Fee is charged in addition to previous recording charges collected by county recorders.

3. When does the new recording fee become due?

Effective January 1, 2018, the recording fee becomes due at the time an instrument, paper or notice is recorded with the county recorder’s office that is not otherwise exempt.

4. Is the Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee charged on all documents presented for recording?

No, the Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee is charged on real estate instruments, papers or notices permitted by law to be recorded unless otherwise exempt.

5. What is considered a “real estate instrument, paper or notice”?

The new legislation defines this as a document relating to real property and includes, but is not limited to the following: deed, grant deed, trustee’s deed, deed of trust, reconveyance, quit claim deed, fictitious deed of trust, assignment of deed of trust,  request for notice of default, abstract of judgment, subordination agreement, declaration of homestead, abandonment of homestead, notice of default, release or discharge, easement, notice of trustee sale, notice of completion, UCC financing statement, mechanic’s lien, maps, and covenants conditions and restrictions.

6. What is the amount of the assessment?

The additional fee is $75.00 per instrument, paper or notice per each single transaction per parcel of real property.

7. What is considered a “single transaction”?

The Recorder’s Association has defined transaction as “instruments, papers, or notices presented together and related to the same parties and property transfer (DRIM).

8. Is there a maximum aggregate housing fee charge per transaction?

Yes. The maximum aggregate housing fee charge for real estate instrument, paper or notice recorded in a single transaction is $225.00.

9. Are any real estate instruments exempt from the Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee?

 Yes. The following real estate instruments, papers or notices are exempt from the additional Recording Fee:

Those transfers subject to and paying documentary transfer tax (DTT) at the time of recording;

Those recorded concurrently in connection with a transfer subject to DTT;

Those recorded concurrently in connection with a transfer of real property that is a residential dwelling to an owner-occupier;

Those which are not related to real property;

Documents recorded concurrently in connection with a transfer for which the maximum $225 fee has been collected;

Those which are expressly exempt  pursuant to Government Code section 27383.

10. How will a county recorder determine that the maximum has been paid, such that additional instruments recorded in connection with a single transaction are not charged an additional recording fee?

After the maximum Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee of $225 has been met, the document submitter must expressly note that the document is exempt because imposition of the fee would exceed the $225 cap.

11. What real estate instruments, papers or notices will be considered recorded “in connection with” a transfer subject to the imposition of documentary transfer tax?

The instrument with documentary transfer tax stamped and paid on it is self-evident, and requires no additional stamp.

The Recorder interprets “in connection with” to mean documents involving the same parties and/or same property that are recorded concurrently.  Documents recorded concurrently will have to include an exemption indicating they are part of an exempt transaction.

12. What real estate instruments, papers or notices will be considered recorded “in connection with” a transfer of real property that is a residential dwelling to an owner-occupier?

All instruments necessary to transfer ownership, relinquish debt, and secure new debt recorded in a single transaction will be considered to be in connection with an exempt transfer, if an exemption is declared and presented with the document.

13. How are documents recorded concurrently with the document transferring a residential dwelling to an owner-occupier?

For a real estate instrument paper or notice to be considered recorded “in connection with” a transfer of real property that is a residential dwelling to an owner-occupier, will be interpreted to mean documents involving the same parties and/or same property that are recorded concurrently.

14. How are documents with multiple titles going to be charged Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fees?

Documents with multiple titles will be charged per title.  For example:

(1) Substitution of Trustee and Full Reconveyance (2 titles):  The fee is $75 x 2 titles = $150. 

(2) Assignment, Substitution of Trustee, Reconveyance Agreement (4 titles): The fee is $225.

15. If recording a subdivision map describing multiple lots in a subdivision, is the SB2 fee based how many lots are in the Subdivision?

One $75 fee would be charged for a single transaction regardless of the number of parcels.

16. If covenants conditions and restrictions (CCRs) on the same property to be recorded concurrently with a Map, is the SB2 fee administered based on number of Lots?

An additional $75 Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee would be due to record the CCRs.

17. Are documents re-recorded for reasons such as correcting a name or attaching a legal description subject to a Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee charge?

Yes, previously recorded documents being re-recorded to correct a previous omission or error are subject to an Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee charge. Minor corrections pursuant to Government Code section 27201 (c)(1)(B) and (c)(1) (C) are exempt.

18. Are reconveyance and release documents recorded to release encumbrances paid prior to January 1st, 2018 subject to the Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee charge?

Yes, documents recorded after January 1^st, 2018 related to transactions closed prior to that date will be charged the $75 Building Homes and Jobs Act Recording Fee, regardless if the overall transaction was otherwise exempt. The fee applies to all documents submitted on or after January 1, 2018.

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Sheriff's Office

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1. What is the phone number for the Records Division?

You can reach the Records Division at 707-445-7251 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.

2. When can I have my Live Scan fingerprints taken?

Our Live Scan hours are 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. Live Scans are conducted on a walk-in basis and it is not necessary to make an appointment. We charge $35.00 for this service, payable with cash, business checks or accounts payable. We do not accept debit cards, credit cards or checks

3. How much does Live Scan fingerprinting cost?

We charge $35.00 for this service, payable with cash, business checks or accounts payable. We do not accept debit cards, credit cards or checks

4. How can I obtain my criminal History?

Criminal history is not public information. To obtain your own criminal history send in a request to the Department of Justice with a set of fingerprints. Forms are available at our main station in Eureka. Information maintained by the local courts is public information.

5. Do I have a warrant?

For warrant information over the phone, please call 707-445-7251. You may come to our Eureka office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to check in person. Public Information is available at our front counter.

6. Where do I need to go to register?

For arson, narcotic, and sex offenders, registration is available at the main station in Eureka Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 8 a.m. to Noon. To register at the Garberville station, please call (707) 923-2761. To register at the McKinleyville station call (707) 839-3857.

7. How do I request records/research?

Requesting Police Reports / Copies of Cases

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office has an established process for requesting copies of cases and other information gathered during a law enforcement investigation entitled to specific individuals as defined in California Government Code § 6254(f): the victims of an incident, or an authorized representative thereof, an insurance carrier against which a claim has been or might be made, and any person suffering bodily injury or property damage or loss as a result of the below listed crimes. Additionally, autopsy and toxicology reports may be requested by any member of the public utilizing this records request process.

If you meet the above criteria, please use our online Records Request Form or download the PDF version of this form and return to the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Main Station or via email at sheriffrecords@co.humboldt.ca.us. Following completion of this form, your request will be processed by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Records Division within 7 to 10 business days. You will be notified when records are available for pick up. All fees are due at the time of pick up. 

Online Records Request Form; complete an online Records Request Form 

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California Public Records Act (CPRA) Request

All requests for records in the possession of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office should be directed to the Sheriff's Office or the County Administrative Office. It is preferred but not required that such requests be submitted via the County's website, or in writing and forwarded by regular mail, email, fax, or hand-delivery and state that the request is being made pursuant to the California Public Records Act (CPRA). Telephonic and in-person verbal requests will be accepted only during regular county office business hours Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and should be directed to the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office.

Requests for records should be as specific as possible so as to clearly define or identify the exact records to which access is sought. In most cases, the county will provide electronic copies or photocopies of the requested records to the requesting party. In some cases depending on the volume or nature of the records, arrangements will be made for supervised access to the requested records.

Request Access to Public Records 

8. What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If non-emergency call 707-445-7251

9. What if this happened in another city? Can I file a report using this online police citizen reporting system?

No. If a crime took place outside of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office jurisdiction please call the police department for that city.

10. What if this happened on a state Freeway?

If this took place on a state Freeway please call the Highway Patrol Office nearest you.

11. What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in.

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Sheriff's Office - "Text to 9-1-1"

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1. What is "Text to 9-1-1"?

Text to 9-1-1 is the ability to send a text message to 9-1-1 from your mobile phone or handheld device.

2. Can I Text to 9-1-1 in Humboldt County?

• Text to 9-1-1 is not available everywhere and is not always available when roaming.
• Text to 9-1-1 is currently available in the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County and the cities of Fortuna, Arcata, as well as HSU Police, and the California Highway Patrol. Other local cities will be launching Text to 9-1-1- capabilities soon.
• You must subscribe to your wireless carrier’s text or data plan in order to send or receive text messages.
• If Text to 9-1-1 is not available in your area, or is temporarily unavailable, you should receive a message indicating that Text to 9-1-1 is not available and to contact 9-1-1 by other means.

3. When should I text 9-1-1?

• Dialing 9-1-1 in an emergency is still the preferred way to request help, and the public is reminded to “Call if you can. Text if you can’t.”
• Text to 9-1-1 is intended primarily for use in three emergency scenarios:
  1. For an individual who is deaf, hard-of-hearing or has a speech disability.
  2. For someone who is in a situation where it is not safe to place a voice call to 9-1-1.
  3. A medical emergency that renders the person incapable of speech.
• ONLY text 9-1-1 in an emergency. Prank-texters can be identified and may be prosecuted according to local laws/regulations.

4. What are the limitations of Text to 9-1-1?

• As with all text messages, Text to 9-1-1 may take longer to receive and respond to than a voice call and could be received out of order, or may not be received at all.
• Text GPS location information is not equal to current wireless location technology.
• Voice calls are real-time communication and Text to 9-1-1 is not.
• Pictures or videos cannot be received by 9-1-1 at this time.
• If you include anyone else on your text to 9-1-1 (group message), it may not be received by 9-1-1.
• At this time translation services for Text to 9-1-1 are not available; please text in English only.

5. How do I text 9-1-1?

• Enter the numbers 911 (no dashes or spaces) in the “To”  or "Recipient" field.
• The first text message to 9-1-1 should be brief. Include address, city and type of emergency (police, fire or medical).
• Push the “Send” button.
• Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.
• Text in simple words – do not use abbreviations or slang.
• Keep text messages brief and concise.

6. How will I know if 9-1-1 received my text?

• A 9-1-1 call center should respond to the text.
• If Text to 9-1-1 is not available, you should receive a message from the wireless carrier stating that Text to 9-1-1 is not available and that you must place a voice or relay call to 9-1-1.

7. Is there a charge to Text to 9-1-1?

Standard text messaging rates apply.

8. Can I text 9-1-1 in languages other than English?

Currently, Text to 9-1-1 is only available in English.

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Sheriff's Office - Application Process

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1. May I be provided with my written test score?

Once an applicant takes his/her P.O.S.T. Pellet B Exam, they will be given their results.

2. Is there a dress code for the written examinations?

There is no dress code for the written examinations, although professional, comfortable clothing is recommended.

3. Do I get paid while I am in the Police Academy?

As a Sheriff Recruit your tuition through the Police Academy will be covered by the Sheriff’s Office and you will receive regular pay as a full time employee during this time. 

4. Are you currently testing and hiring?

The Sheriff’s Office does continues recruitment for several positions. To check our current openings, please visit the county employment portal.

5. How do I apply for any of the listed job opening(s)?

You can apply for any job opening via the county’s employment portal. 

6. What positions are part of the Law Enforcement Job Family?

The Sheriff’s Office has numerous positions besides the sworn position of Deputy Sheriff, Correctional Deputy, and Dispatcher. Other positions include Animal Control Officer, Animal Shelter Kennel Attendants, Coroner’s Office positions, Administrative positions, and civilian positions within the Correctional Facility.

7. What are the selection requirements for Deputy Sheriff Recruit?

All sworn Sheriff’s Office positions will require the successful completion of the application process, testing, and an oral interview prior to starting the background process.

8. For how long are the written test scores valid?

Written test scores are typically valid for one year.

9. If I take the P.O.S.T PELLETB Exam and fail, may I reapply?

Yes, however, per P.O.S.T. regulations, the PELLETB test can only be taken once in a 30 day period.

10. Do you accept another agency’s written test score in lieu of the written test?

If you have taken the P.O.S.T. PELLETB exam while applying with another agency, we may accept the scores if the test was taken within 12 months of your application date.

11. I’m currently on active duty in the military. When should I start the hiring process?

While it is difficult to give an exact time frame for the completion of the background process, as each is unique, we recommend you allot at least six months for this process to be completed in full. Currently, our staff is able to complete an average background evaluation in about 3 to 4 months

12. When will closed/suspended position(s) reopen?

Position recruitments vary based on departmental needs. We recommend you check the county employment portal regularly as new positions are frequently listed. 

13. How do I update my personal information/profile?

Please sign in to the county employment portal to update your information.

14. May I apply for more than one position at the same time?

Yes, you may apply for multiple positions. 

15. If I fail the P.O.S.T. mandated Structured Interview (SI), may I reapply?

If you fail the P.O.S.T. Structured Interview, you may reapply. There is no time restraint for additional applications. 

16. Whom may I contact for more information regarding employment with the Sheriff's Office?

For more information or specific questions not answered in this FAQ, please contact our recruitment line at 707-441-5100.

17. What P.O.S.T. PELLETB Score is required for employment as a Deputy Sheriff?

A passing T- score of 42 on the Peace Officer Standards and Training Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery exam (PELLETB) is required for the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. 

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Sheriff's Office - CCW

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1. What are the steps I need to take to get a CCW license?

• Read the application, in particular the first two pages and the last two pages, to be sure you are eligible to obtain a CCW License.
• Fill out the online application and submit the required fees.
• You will be given a date for an interview with the CCW coordinator.
• Appear on time (maybe a little early) for you interview.
• You will be interviewed (approximately 30 to 40 minutes).
• You will be fingerprinted (prints go to California Department of Justice and the FBI).  Prints are checked against both California and Federal arrest records.
• After the interview, arrange for and attend 16 hours of CCW training and a range qualification from a Humboldt County Approved trainer. (We do not accept training from out of county trainers).
• Wait for your fingerprint clearances and background to be completed (time will be dependent on CCW applicant load), approximately 1 month.
• You will receive a notification that your permit is ready. 
• Pay the remaining fees due (online).
• Go to the Sheriff’s Office and pick up your permit.

2. What should you expect during the interview?

The interview will be fairly relaxed and will last 30 to 40 minutes in most cases. Your application will be reviewed, in your presence, and clarifying questions will be asked. You will sign your application. You will be asked questions about yourself and your life experiences. Your guns will be inspected to verify the serial numbers, and those numbers will be checked for registration and status. The general restrictions on the CCW license will be discussed and your photo will be taken.

3. What firearms are included on the CCW License?

The firearms you list on your application (three (3) maximum).

4. Where does my license allow me to carry?

Your permit allows you to carry concealed in all unrestricted areas. Restricted areas include, but are not limited to:

• Any place where firearms are prohibited.
• Schools
• Federal and state facilities
• Private business that don’t wish to have firearms on the premises
• Professional sporting events
• Concerts

5. What rules must I follow while carrying my firearms concealed?

• Federal and state laws pertaining to firearms.
• Local ordinances pertaining to firearms.
• Rules and restrictions imposed by private business and persons when on their property.

6. What happens if I get pulled over and am carrying a concealed firearm?

• Keep your hands on the steering wheel and visible to the officer.
• Let the officer know that you are a CCW licensee and carrying concealed.
• Follow directions given by the officer. 
• After the contact is over you will be released and sent on your way.

7. If your license is lost or stolen?

You can apply for a duplicate for a fee of $10.00.

8. How long is the permit good for?

The permit, in most instances is good for two (2) years.

9. How do I renew my CCW license?

Approximately 2 months prior to expiration, submit an online renewal application and fees. The application and permit will be processed and you will be notified when it is ready to pick up.

10. Can my CCW license be revoked?

If you fail to meet one of the specified requirements to carry a CCW, the Sheriff can immediately revoke your permit.  Reasons could be regarding Law Enforcement Contact or Arrest, No longer a full time Humboldt County Resident, no longer a person of good moral character.

11. Can I obtain a license to open carry?

If you are a security guard, you can obtain an open carry permit through the State of California. Otherwise, open carry permits are not issued by Sheriff Honsal in Humboldt County.

12. What if my question isn't listed?

Should you have further questions feel free to contact the CCW Coordinator at (707) 445-7251.

13. What is the definition of Good Moral Character?

Good moral character can be defined and include consideration of honesty, trustworthiness, diligence, reliability, respect for the law, integrity, candor, discretion, observance of fiduciary duty, respect for the rights of others, absence of hatred and racism, fiscal responsibility, mental, psychological and emotional stability, respect for the constitution and uphold the law. 

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Sheriff's Office - Transparency Portal FAQs

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1. What is California Senate Bill 1421 (SB-1421)?

California Senate Bill 1421 (SB-1421), which became law on January 1, 2019, amends California Penal Code sections 832.7 and 832.8 relating to peace officer records. SB-1421 requires certain peace officer personnel records and records relating to specified incidents, complaints, and investigations involving peace officers to be made available for public inspection pursuant to the California Public Records Act. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is fully committed to complying with the new law. Because the law is complex, we want you to know a few important points. If you want to read the law in its entirety, click here.

2. What categories of records must be made public under SB-1421?

California Penal Code section 832.7(b) applies to records relating to:

• The discharge of a firearm at a person by a deputy.
• The use of force by a deputy against a person resulting in death or great bodily injury.
• An incident in which an agency made a sustained finding that a deputy engaged in sexual assault involving a member of the public.
• An incident in which an agency made a sustained finding that a deputy engaged in dishonesty directly relating to the reporting, investigation, or prosecution of a crime, or the reporting of, or investigation of misconduct by, another deputy.

3. What does "sustained finding" mean?

"Sustained" means a final determination by the agency, following an investigation and opportunity for an administrative appeal, that the actions of the peace officer were found to violate department policy.

4. If I request a qualifying record, will I get every part of the record, in its entirety?

California Penal Code section 832.7(b) mandates the redaction of the following information:

(A) To remove personal data or information, such as a home address, telephone number, or identities of family members, other than the names and work-related information of peace and custodial officers.

(B) To preserve the anonymity of complainants and witnesses.

(C) To protect confidential medical, financial, or other information of which disclosure is specifically prohibited by federal law or would cause an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy that clearly outweighs the strong public interest in records about misconduct and serious use of force by peace officers and custodial officers.

(D) Where there is a specific, articulable, and particularized reason to believe that disclosure of the record would pose a significant danger to the physical safety of the peace officer, custodial officer, or another person.

Additionally, if an investigation or incident involves multiple officers, information about allegations of misconduct by, or the analysis or disposition of an investigation of, an officer must be redacted unless it relates to a sustained finding against that officer.

The record(s) you receive from the Sheriff’s Office will be redacted, pursuant to the Penal Code. It is important to note that all parts of the record must be reviewed and redacted prior to disclosure including paper documents, photographs, and audio and video files. The Sheriff’s Office does not presently maintain these records with the redactions mandated by the new law.

5. Aside from the mandated information is there anything else that the Department can choose to redact?

Yes. An agency may redact a record to remove personal identifying information, where, on the facts of the particular case, the public interest served by not disclosing the information clearly outweighs the public interest served by disclosure of the information.

6. Can the Department withhold a record that falls into one of the disclosure categories?

Yes. An agency may withhold the record of an incident involving the discharge of a firearm at a person by a peace officer or an incident in which the use of force by a peace officer against a person resulted in death, or in great bodily injury that is the subject of an active criminal or administrative investigation. Cal. Pen. Code section 832.7(b)(7).

7. How long will it take to get my requested record(s)?

In order to calculate the total number of hours estimated to complete your request, the Sheriff’s Office must first identify all incidents responsive to your request and review the amount of material related to each incident. The Office is actively looking for additional advanced technology to expedite the redaction process and is open to suggestions from the media and the public regarding such a solution.

The Sheriff’s Office receives many public records requests every day. Employees tasked with responding to these CPRA requests must do so while still completing their day to day responsibilities.

8. How will I get my redacted records?

Once the redaction work is completed, the redacted record/s will be posted on-line and released to the requester via the County’s NextRequest Public Records Portal.

9. What is Senate Bill 978?

Senate Bill 978 requires law enforcement agencies to "conspicuously post on their Internet Web sites" all "current standards, policies, practices, operating procedures, and education and training materials" that would otherwise be available to the public if a request was made pursuant to the California Public Records Act (PRA).

10. What is Assembly Bill 481?

California Assembly Bill 481 requires law enforcement agencies to obtain approval of the applicable governing body (Board of Supervisors), by adoption of a military equipment use policy prior to taking certain actions relating to the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment as defined by the legislature.

11. Where are the audio/video files associated with the released SB 1421/ AB 748 records?

Responsive audio/video records are being released on a rolling basis as they are reviewed and redacted to a dedicated page on our transparency portal. You are encouraged to visit this site often as it will be updated on a rolling basis as additional information becomes available. 

12. How do I request a record?

There are different ways to request a record held by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office depending on the type of record you are seeking. Read the categories below to find out which is right for you. 

Requesting Police Reports / Copies of Cases

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office has an established process for requesting copies of cases, police reports, and other information gathered during a law enforcement investigation entitled to specific individuals as defined in California Government Code § 6254(f): the victims of an incident, or an authorized representative thereof, an insurance carrier against which a claim has been or might be made, and any person suffering bodily injury or property damage or loss as a result of the below listed crimes. Additionally, autopsy and toxicology reports may be requested by any member of the public utilizing this records request process.

If you meet the above criteria, please use our online Records Request Form or download the PDF version of this form and return to the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Main Station or via email at sheriffrecords@co.humboldt.ca.us. Following completion of this form, your request will be processed by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Records Division within 7 to 10 business days. You will be notified when records are available for pick up. All fees are due at the time of pick up. 

Online Records Request Form; complete an online Records Request Form 

Download PDF Form

California Public Records Act (CPRA) Request

All requests for general records in the possession of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office (ex. emails, training policies, contracts, statistics) should be directed to the Sheriff's Office by making a California Public Records Request. It is preferred but not required that such requests be submitted via the County's website, or in writing and forwarded by regular mail, email, fax, or hand-delivery and state that the request is being made pursuant to the California Public Records Act (CPRA). Telephonic and in-person verbal requests will be accepted only during regular county office business hours Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and should be directed to the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office.

Requests for records should be as specific as possible so as to clearly define or identify the exact records to which access is sought. In most cases, the county will provide electronic copies or photocopies of the requested records to the requesting party. In some cases depending on the volume or nature of the records, arrangements will be made for supervised access to the requested records.

Request Access to Public Records 

13. Are there costs associated with obtaining a record held by the Sheriff's Office?

It depends. 

The following reports and associated fees are available to release to crime victims, a victim's authorized representative, and/or an insurance carrier:

2021 Fees for Law Enforcement Records
Arson	$10
Assault	$10
Burglary	$10
Carjacking	$10
Domestic Violence	Free
Explosion	$10
Fire	$10
Larceny (Theft)	$10
Robbery	$10
Vandalism	$10
Vehicle Theft	$10

The following reports and associated fees are available to release to all members of the public upon request:

2021 Fees for Coroner Records
Autopsy Report	$15
Toxicology Report	$15

For California Public Records Act Requests, there may be a fee associated with the production of records in accordance with law and the county's adopted fee schedule. If fees are applicable, you will be advised of those fees prior to the production of records.

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Sheriff’s Office – Alarm Permits

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1. How does the Sheriff’s Office find out I have an alarm?

There are currently no alarm systems directly connected to the Sheriff’s Office however, there are several different ways the Sheriff’s Office can be notified of a locations alarm system.

1. Many alarm companies advise new clients that the Sheriff’s Office may require an alarm system operation permit and advise them to contact the Sheriff’s Office for details.
2. Monitored alarm systems are maintained by your chosen alarm company. If an alarm is activated the monitoring company calls the Sheriff’s Office dispatch center with a request for service to the alarm location. The monitoring company then gives the dispatcher the alarm address, business or residence name and area of activation. The call is logged; officers are dispatched to the alarm location. Alarm companies do not supply the Sheriff’s Office with records of existing alarm owners, nor do they notify the police if an alarm has been disconnected.
3. Dispatchers also receive calls from neighboring residents and business owners if an audible alarm is ringing. Officers are dispatched at that time.
4. Officers on patrol sometimes hear audible alarms and respond to the location.

2. What kind of alarm requires an alarm permit?

Permitting requirements only apply to monitored security systems. Residents owning cameras or other security devices that are not monitored by a security company or trigger a law enforcement response upon activation are not mandated to obtain a permit under County Code Chapter 916.

3. What happens if I do not pay the permit fee?

If an annual permit is not paid the location is still monitored for false alarms. If a false alarm occurs the alarm owner is assessed a fine for each false alarm and is billed accordingly. If false alarm fines are not paid the charges are sent to collections.

4. Will I be mailed a paper permit?

No. Humboldt County does not issue paper alarm user permits. You are issued a permit number and your permit information is kept in a computer database at the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office.

5. When do I have to renew my permit?

Permit renewals occur every 2 years on the same date as the initial permit inception.

6. Will I be notified when my renewal payment is due?

Yes. You will be sent a renewal notice by mail.

7. What is a false alarm?

A false alarm is any alarm (silent or audible) that requires police response that turns out to be a non-emergency. This includes operator error and system mal functions. If Deputies arrive at a location that is locked and secured, no attempt of break-in is found, and no persons are on scene it is usually considered a false alarm. If natural forces like earthquake or severe winds is to blame for the false alarm, then it does not count as a chargeable false alarm. Deputies may also use discretion if there are other circumstances that should be considered to classify the false alarm as not chargeable.

8. How many false alarms am I allowed with a paid permit?

Effective April 23rd, 2021; with a paid permit each location is permitted two non-invoiced false alarms each calendar year. Each additional alarm accrues an additional $50 fee; for example: 3rd false alarm $50.00. 4th false alarm $100.00, 5th false alarm $150.00, 6th false alarm $200.00. Please note if your alarm system has 6 or more false alarms within a 6-month period you may be subject to possible revocation of your permit.

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Short-term Rental Ordinance FAQ

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1. What is a short-term rental?

A short-term rental is any one of the following: 

1) a rental of an entire dwelling for 30 days or fewer 

2) rental of 2 or fewer rooms of a dwelling with an onsite host for 30 days or fewer

Note, Bed and Breakfasts are not short-term rentals. Farm stays which meet the above criteria are short-term rentals.

2. What kinds of short-term rentals are currently legal?

Currently, permits to operate short-term rentals in the unincorporated parts of Humboldt County are few in number and not widely available. Dwellings in the inland area of Shelter Cove are eligible to be permitted as vacation rentals with a Special Permit. Several farm-stays have been permitted.

When adopted, the Short-Term Rental Ordinance will provide a permitting pathway for short-term rentals.

3. How do I make my voice heard in the process?

There will be several opportunities to ask questions and provide input and suggestions through the process. We encourage participation early and often. Dates for workshops and hearings will be listed on the main Short-Term Rental Ordinance webpage for your convenience.

4. Will traditional Bed and Breakfast be regulated by this ordinance?

Existing permitted Bed and Breakfasts will not be affected by the proposed regulations. The proposed ordinance would replace the Bed and Breakfast regulations. 

5. Will people that operate short-term rentals have to pay Transient Occupancy Tax?

Yes. Short-term Rentals are subject to the Transient Occupancy Tax.

6. What is the effect of the Short-term Rental Moratorium?

A temporary moratorium on Short-term Rentals was adopted by the Board of Supervisors on June 6, 2023. The temporary moratorium expired on July 21, 2023. 

Following the expiration, the county regulations returned to the status quo: Short-term Rental (STR) of residences for a period of fewer than 30 days is not permitted in the unincorporated area of Humboldt County except in the inland portion of Shelter Cove. 

While there are many residences operating as STRs in Humboldt County, enforcement against these rentals is pursued only in response to complaints from the public.

7. When can I register to get in line for a permit?

No registration period or process has been established for Short-term Rentals. We expect that the application period for the inland area will open following the adoption of the ordinance.

8. Is it possible to get a permit for a Short-term Rental now?

The Planning Department has issued Special Permits for Vacation home rentals in the inland area of Shelter Cove. The Planning Department has also issued Special Permits for the operation of Bed and Breakfast operations which are similar in character to Short-term Rentals. Aside from these instances, Short-term Rentals have not been allowed.

9. When will I be able to get a permit for my Short-term Rental?

We cannot give a precise date. Planning Department staff anticipates that the inland ordinance will be adopted in fourth quarter of 2023. The coastal ordinance must go through additional review with the coastal commission of California which extends timelines significantly - up to two years.

10. Will my existing Short-term Rental be grandfathered in?

The Board of Supervisors will ultimately decide if there will be any grandfather clause. If a permit has already been approved, we anticipate that the terms of the previous approval will be honored.

11. What type of permit will be required for a Short-term Rental?

The draft ordinance proposes a tiered permitting system depending on the location, size and scale of the proposed operation. Most projects would be approved administratively while others would require a Special Permit.

12. How much will it cost to get a permit for a Short-term Rental?

The draft regulations proposed a tiered permitting system depending on the location, size and scale of the operation. Projects approved administratively will cost less while projects approved with a Special Permit will be more expensive.

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Treasurer - Mobile Home

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1. What is a mobile home?

A mobile home is a structure, transportable in 1 or more sections, designed and equipped to contain 1 or more dwelling units, and to be used with or without a foundation system. Specifically any trailer coach that is more than 8 feet wide or 40 feet long, or 1 that requires a permit to move on the highway is considered a mobile home.

2. I have a recreational vehicle (RV), is it considered a mobile home?

No. Recreational vehicles (RVs), as well as buses and prefabricated housing units, are not considered mobile homes.

3. My mobile home is sitting on a permanent foundation on my property - how will it be taxed?

For purposes of taxation, mobile homes affixed to the land on a permanent foundation are not considered "mobile" homes, but are viewed instead as modular housing, and have always been taxed in the same way as conventional homes.

If your mobile home is not attached to a permanent foundation, for example, if your mobile home is in a mobile home park please read on. Throughout the remainder of this pamphlet, the term "mobile home" refers only to those that are not on permanent foundations.

4. Under which circumstances would my mobile home automatically become subject to local property taxes as opposed to in-lieu license fees?

If your mobile home was originally purchased new on or after July 1, 1980, it was automatically subject to local property taxes. Also if the license fees on your mobile home, regardless of when it was originally purchased became delinquent on or before May 31, 1984, your mobile home was automatically converted to the local property tax system. Delinquent license fees no longer cause automatic transfer to local property taxation.

5. Are there any advantages to changing from in-lieu license fees to local property taxation?

There may be advantages, but each case must be evaluated individually.

One possible advantage is that property taxes are payable in two annual installments. You also may be entitled to the $7,000 homeowner's exemption or other exemptions administered by the County Assessor. In addition to county exemptions, you may be eligible for the tax assistance and postponement program offered by the State of California.

Finally, it is important to note that mobile homes subject to local property taxation are exempt from any sales or use tax. Therefore, you may enhance the marketability of your mobile home by voluntarily converting it to local property taxation prior to selling it.

Once you convert to local property taxation, however, you cannot revert back to vehicle license fees.

6. How do I find out if I am entitled to the homeowner's exemption?

Information regarding homeowner's and other exemptions can be obtained by calling the office of the Humboldt County Assessor at 707-445-7663 or writing to:
Humboldt County Assessor
825 5th St.
1st Floor
Eureka, CA 95501

7. How can I change taxation of my mobile home from license fees to the local property tax system?

You can request a voluntary conversion to local property taxes by calling 800-952-8356 or writing to:
State of California
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)
P.O. Box 2111
6007 Folsom Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95810

8. If my mobile home currently is subject to local property taxation, can I request reinstatement of vehicle license fees?

No. Once mobile homes have been changed to local property taxation, it is not possible to reinstate vehicle in-lieu license fees.

9. If I buy a used mobile home subject to local property taxes, how do I get the title transferred to my name?

Mobile home title issuance is administered by the state's Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). That department cannot transfer title of a used mobile home subject to local property taxes or direct charges by fire districts or other fees without a tax clearance from the county tax collector of the county in which the mobile home is situated. If there are any taxes or other fees owing, they must be paid before a Tax Clearance Certificate (PDF) can be issued.

Note: Remember that this type of title transfer applies only to mobile homes not on permanent foundations. If your mobile home is attached to a permanent foundation, title transfers are handled by the County Recorder in the same manner as for conventional homes.

10. If I purchase a used mobile home or modify my mobile home by construction, will I have to pay supplemental taxes?

It depends on what type of taxes you currently are paying. Mobile homes that are subject to local property taxation are subject to supplemental taxes. Mobile homes that are subject to vehicle license fees are not subject to supplemental taxes through the state's Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), however may be subject to supplemental and annual taxes for the addition. Contact the County Assessor for additional information.

11. How is the amount of my mobile home property taxes determined?

The amount of property taxes on your mobile home is determined in accordance with the state law and is limited to $1 per $100 (1%) of assessed value of your mobile home, except for certain direct assessments applied by cities and districts and special taxes approved by local voters.

The County Assessor determines the assessed value of your mobile home, which is generally the cash or market value at the time of purchase. This value increases not more than 2% per year until the mobile home is sold, at which time it must be reassessed. If your mobile home is parked on land that you own, the land will be assessed and taxed separately.

12. Do I have any recourse if I disagree with the valuation placed on my mobile home by the assessor?

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. Additional information regarding appeals can be obtained by calling 707-445-7663, or writing:
Humboldt County Assessor
825 5th St.
1st Floor
Eureka, CA 95501

13. What happens if I fail to pay my mobile home property taxes on time?

If you do not pay the 1st installment of your annual tax bill at the Tax Collector's Office by 5 p.m. on December 10, or payment is not postmarked by that time and date, then that installment becomes delinquent, and a 10% delinquent penalty on the unpaid taxes is incurred. If you fail to pay the 2nd installment at the Tax Collector's Office by 5 p.m. on April 10, or payment is not postmarked by that time and date, it also becomes delinquent and incurs the 10% penalty plus a $20 cost. Likewise, if you fail to pay any supplemental tax bill installment by the applicable delinquency date, the same penalties accrue as for delinquent annual taxes.

As soon as an installment becomes delinquent, the county has the right to take any of the following steps to collect the unpaid taxes and penalties on a mobile home:

• File a Certificate of Tax Lien for record with the County Recorder. This is a 10-year lien against all personal and real property owned by the assessee, which may be renewed every 10 years until the tax is paid.
• File a lawsuit.
• Initiate seizure and sale of the mobile home at a public auction.
• Obtain a summary judgment.

Should you have any further questions about Tax Clearance Certificates or payments, please contact the Humboldt County Tax Collector at 707-476-2450.
Questions regarding assessed values or exemptions should be addressed to the Humboldt County Assessor at 707-445-7663.

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Treasurer - Property Tax Information

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1. When are property tax bills mailed?

Tax bills are usually mailed out by October 15 each year.

2. Who determines the amount of my property taxes?

The County Assessor 1st determines the value of your property. The County Auditor then applies the general tax rate of 1% and adds any special assessment or bond amounts to the tax roll. These computed amounts become the total property taxes.

The County Assessor can be contacted at 707-445-7663, and the County Auditor at 707-476-2452.

The Tax Collector does not determine the amount of your property taxes.

3. Why are delinquencies highest among new property owners?

The primary reasons delinquencies are highest among new property owners are:

• Lack of knowledge of property tax delinquency dates
• Misunderstanding as to who is to pay the taxes-the property owner or his/her lender
• Not inquiring about taxes until a tax bill is received
• Not reading or understanding the title reports or escrow papers as they pertain to taxes, which have not been paid at close of escrow

Please read your title and escrow papers carefully to determine which taxes were paid in escrow and which remain unpaid. Please contact the Tax Collector's Office with any questions.

4. What if I do not receive my annual property tax bill?

Annual tax bills are mailed 1 time each year by November 1. Since the bill contains payment stubs for both installments, this is the only tax bill regularly mailed by the Tax Collector's Office.

Depending on when your ownership change is placed on the tax roll, the annual tax bill could be sent either to the previous owner or to you, the new owner. If you do not receive the annual tax bill from either the Tax Collector or the previous owner, print a copy of the tax bill from our webpage.

Remember, failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the responsibility for payment, nor does it constitute any cause for cancellation of penalty, interest, or cost charges!

5. Who provides the address shown on the property tax bill?

The address is placed on the tax bill according to your instructions. You provide the address when you record your deed and fill out a Preliminary Change of Ownership Form (PDF), or when you request the County Assessor to change your mailing address.

6. How do I change the address where my tax bill is mailed?

You must advise the Assessor's Office, in writing, of your new mailing address. Mail notices of address change to:
Assessor's Office
825 5th St.
Room 300
Eureka, CA 95501

Do not use the address of your lender or accountant. It is very important to notify the Assessor's Office any time you change your mailing address.

7. How do I apply for a homeowner's exemption?

If you own a home and occupy it as your principal place of residence, you may qualify for a homeowner's exemption and a savings on your property taxes. Simply contact the Assessor's Office for assistance at 707-445-7663.

8. Is the annual property tax bill the only tax bill I will receive?

No. There are annual secured tax bills and supplemental tax bills. Article XIIIA of the California Constitution requires reappraisal of property whenever a change in ownership occurs or there is new construction on the property.

A supplemental tax bill represents the additional taxes due resulting from the reappraisal required by Law. A supplemental tax bill is an additional tax liability and must be paid in addition to the annual secured property tax bill.

9. How does a supplemental tax bill affect me?

If you purchase new property, or complete new construction on property, the County Assessor will reappraise the property and send you a Notice of Supplemental Assessment. The supplemental tax bill, or a refund, will follow. Please remember, a supplemental tax bill is an additional tax due; it must be paid in addition to your annual secured tax bill.

10. Why am I getting two supplemental tax bills?

If the change of ownership occurs, or the new construction is completed, between January 1 and June 30, there will be 2 supplemental tax bills. One bill is for the fiscal year in which the change occurred, and the other is for the following fiscal year.

Address questions to the Assessor's Office at 707-445-7663.

11. What if I have other questions?

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact the Treasurer - Tax Collector's Office.

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Treasurer - Property Tax Payments

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1. To what recipient should check payments be written?

Make check out to "Humboldt County Tax Collector."

2. When are my secured property taxes due, and when do they become delinquent?

Property taxes are due in 2 installments.

The 1st installment is due November 1, and is delinquent at 5 p.m. on December 10, after which a 10% penalty accrues.

The 2nd installment is due on February 1, and is delinquent at 5 p.m. on April 10, after which a 10% penalty and $20 cost accrue.

3. Who is responsible for paying the property taxes on property I / we just purchased?

As the current owner of the property, you are responsible for any taxes which were not paid at the close of escrow. Even though taxes may be prorated between the buyer and the seller in escrow, the actual taxes may not have been paid to the Tax Collector at that time. It is the responsibility of the property owner to make certain property taxes are paid in a timely manner.

You may log on to our webpage to check the status of tax liability.

4. What if I pay my property taxes through my lender?

It is still the property owner's responsibility to make certain that all taxes are paid in a timely manner. The Tax Collector's Office is not responsible for payment or nonpayment by your lender.

Problems with your impound account are between you and your lender and must be resolved by you.

5. What are the penalties if I don't pay my property taxes on time?

Delinquent 1st and 2nd installments are subject to a 10% penalty; and an $8 late notice fee. Delinquent 2nd installments are also subject to a $20 cost charge. Taxes which remain unpaid at the end of the fiscal year (June 30) are also subject to a 1.5% per month penalty and a $15 redemption fee.

6. How can I obtain a receipt of payment?

If you are paying by mail, enclose the entire bill and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Always send tax stub(s) to indicate the parcels you are paying.

7. What does "tax defaulted" mean?

Tax defaulted means there is a delinquent tax against the property. We prepare an annual list of property that is "tax defaulted" at the end of the fiscal year (June 30.) This list is published in the Times Standard newspaper on or about the 1st week in September of the following year.

If the "tax defaulted" notation is printed on your bill, it is an indication that the Tax Collector shows delinquent taxes for a prior year.

Five years after the 1st year of delinquency, the property will be eligible for sale at public auction, and will be subsequently sold if the taxes are not paid.

8. Where do I mail my tax payments?

Mail your tax payments to:
Humboldt County Treasurer-Tax Collector
County Courthouse
825 5th St.
Room 125
Eureka, CA 95501

9. When are supplemental tax bills due?

The total amount shown as due is payable upon the mailing of the supplemental tax bill. The delinquent dates are shown on the tax bill.

10. Are supplemental tax bills sent to my lender for payment?

No, supplemental tax bills are not sent to your lender. These tax bills are mailed directly to you. You are responsible for contacting your lender to determine who will pay the supplemental tax bill.

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Treasurer - Public Auction

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1. What is tax-defaulted property with Notice of Power to Sell?

Under California law, after a period of 5 years from the 1st year of tax-default, during which time the assessee retains the legal title to the property and has the privilege of redeeming it upon payment of the amount due, the tax collector records a Notice of Power to Sell Tax-Defaulted Property in the Humboldt County Recorder’s Office. Once this document is recorded, the tax collector may sell the tax-defaulted property at public auction.

2. Why does the county sell tax-defaulted property?

The primary purpose of public auction sales is to collect the unpaid taxes and to return the property to a revenue-generating status by conveying the property to another owner. Offering property for sale achieves this by either selling the property or forcing redemption.

The fact that anyone should lose their property for nonpayment of property taxes is regrettable. Our tax laws, however, afford landowners and parties of interest fair notice, a liberal period of redemption, and adequate opportunities to contest irregularities.

3. What laws govern the sale of tax-defaulted property in California?

Public auctions are conducted pursuant to the California Revenue and Taxation Code, beginning with Section 3691. As a bidder, you are responsible to know the laws pertaining to public auctions.

4. Is a tax sale publicly advertised?

Yes. State law dictates that notice of a tax sale must be published 3 times in successive 7-day intervals before the tax sale date, in a newspaper of general circulations published in the county.

5. Does the county guarantee the property?

No, Be an informed bidder - all properties are sold as-is.

Prospective purchasers are urged to examine the title, location, and desirability of the properties available to their own satisfaction prior to the sale. The county makes no guarantee, expressed or implied, relative to the title, location, or condition of the properties for sale.

In addition, the county assumes no responsibility, expressed or implied, that the properties are in compliance with zoning ordinances, mining and reclamation regulations, conform to building codes and permits, and/or any other applicable regulations or permits.

No government entity is liable for damages sustained to property purchased at public auction, including from the time of the sale until the recordation of the tax deed to the purchaser.

All sales are final.

6. Are contaminated / possible contaminated properties identified?

Yes, if we are aware of such properties. When we become aware of properties on our tax sale list that are known or suspected to be contaminated, we will identify these properties along with supplying the lead agency’s name and address where all available information may be reviewed.

Do not bid on these properties unless you understand the issues related to contaminated properties. Prior to bidding, you should contact your attorney regarding the possible purchase of contaminated properties.

7. When does the right to redeem a tax-defaulted property cease?

The right to pay the property taxes in full to avoid the sale of the property ceases at the close of business, 5 p.m. PST, on the last business day prior to the tax sale. In the State of California, there is no extended right of redemption.

8. How is the minimum bid on a tax sale property determined?

The minimum price at which property may be offered for sale, pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code §3698.5(a), is an amount not less than the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs.

9. Can I obtain title to the property by paying the delinquent taxes?

No. Legal title to a tax-defaulted property subject to the Tax Collector’s power to sell can only be obtained by becoming the successful bidder at the county tax sale. Paying the outstanding property taxes on such property will only benefit the current owner.

10. Do liens or encumbrances on a tax-defaulted property transfer to the new owner after purchase of the property at a tax sale?

Per Revenue and Taxation Code §3712, the deed conveys title to the purchaser free of all encumbrances of any kind existing before the sale, except:

• a) Any lien for taxes and special assessments, that the installments will become payable upon the secured roll after the time of the sale.
• b) The lien for taxes or assessments or other rights of any taxing agency that does not consent to the sale under this chapter.
• c) Liens for special assessments levied upon the property conveyed that 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 that collects its own taxes has consented to the sale under this chapter, and whose taxes were not included in the amount required to redeem from sale to the taxing agency.
• d) Easements constituting servitudes 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) 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, or that are being collected through a foreclosure action pursuant to Part 14 (commencing with Section 8830) of Division 10 of the Streets and Highways Code. A sale pursuant to this chapter shall not nullify, eliminate, or reduce the amount of a foreclosure judgment pursuant to Part 14 (commencing with Section 8830) of Division 10 of the Streets and Highways Code.
• g) Any federal Internal Revenue Service liens that, 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, or that are being collected through a foreclosure action pursuant to Section 53356.1 of the Government Code. A sale pursuant to this chapter shall not nullify, eliminate, or reduce the amount of a foreclosure judgment pursuant to Section 53356.1 of the Government Code.

All prior year county and city taxes are canceled. Anyone holding a mortgage or lien of any nature against the property has lost their claim, with the possible exception of a U.S. Government lien filed prior to the recording of the Notice of Tax Collector’s Power to Sell. When a property on which the Internal Revenue Service holds a tax lien is sold at public auction, the United States has the right of redemption for 120 days from the date of such sale or the period allowable for redemption under local law, whichever is longer [Section 7425(d), 26 USCS, Internal Revenue Code; Section 3712(g)]. The amount to be paid by the Internal Revenue Service is (a) the actual amount paid for the property by the bidder, (b) plus interest at 6% per annum from the date of sale, (c) plus the expenses of sale that exceed any income received from the property. [Treasury Regulation 26 CFR Chapter1 (4-1-87 Edition) Section 301.74254(b)(1)].

11. How do I find or see a parcel of property I’d like to bid on at the tax sale?

While we try to help prospective purchasers identify a property location, we can provide only the approximate geographic location for vacant land, which accounts for most of the property offered at our tax sale. Vacant, or unimproved, land has no address. Its approximate location may be determined through the use of county assessor plat maps and a map book. Exact boundary lines of a property can be determined only by conducting a survey of the property, initiated at the purchaser’s expense. Improved properties frequently (but not always) bear a situs (street address).

12. How can I obtain Assessor’s plat maps?

To obtain plat maps, contact the Humboldt County Assessor’s Office at 707-445-7663 or:
825 5th St.
Room 300
Eureka, CA, 95501

The County Assessor’s plat maps and map books can determine the geographical location of a particular property; exact boundary lines of a property can be determined only by a survey of the property undertaken at the purchaser’s expense.

13. 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.

14. How can I find out if a particular property has been withdrawn from the sale?

To find out if a particular property has been withdrawn from the sale, check the Govease website. The right of redemption terminates at 5 p.m. PST on the last business day prior to the tax sale.

15. How can I register as a bidder?

Govease.com will begin registering bidders on July 17th, 2023. Full information and instructions will be available on the Govease website or by calling 769-208-5050 ext 2.

You may also bid by fax if you do not have access to the Internet. A bidder deposit of $2,500 will be required before placing a bid on any parcel. Bidders are advised to arrange for their deposits early to make sure they are eligible to bid. The Tax Collector’s Office will not be registering bidders nor accepting bids, all questions should be directed to Govease.

16. How does the bidding process work?

All parcels will be sold by Auction ID. Minimum bids will be as stated per parcel and each raise will be in increments of at least $100 until the close of the auction on the stated date and time on the Govease website.

An auto bid (or proxy) saves you time and money. An auto bid authorizes Govease to bid $100 above any competing bid, up to, but not exceeding the maximum dollar amount that you are willing to pay. In other words, your bid will automatically increase only as other bidders participate, up to your specified maximum amount. This enables you to continually bid without having to constantly monitor the auction.

17. What happens if I am the successful bidder but decide that I don’t want the property after all?

Be sure that you want the property before you bid.

All sales are final and there are absolutely no refunds.

Failure to consummate the sale within the specified time shall result in the forfeiture of any deposit made and all rights that the purchaser may have had with respect to the property. Failure to consummate the sale will also bar the bidder from participating in future tax sales for this county, as well as possibly other counties. Under California State Law, only a successful bidder has the opportunity to purchase at the tax sale; if the successful bidder defaults, the county cannot resort to the second highest bidder. In the event of a default, appropriate legal action against the bidder will be pursued.

18. How can a successful bidder pay for a property at tax sale?

Successful bidders must pay by cashier’s check, money order, or wire transfer, and payment must be received by 5 p.m. PST, 24hours after the sale closes. In addition to the purchase price, the documentary transfer tax ($0.55 per $500 of the purchase price) is required. A $35 per parcel processing fee and a $35 per winning bidder fee will also be required by the successful bidder.

19. What kind of title do I get?

The deed you receive from the Tax Collector is a tax deed; it conveys to you whatever right, title, and interest the former owner had in the property. Nothing more is conveyed to you than was taken from the former owner. Nothing is guaranteed, with 1 exception: if the former owner should break the tax deed and regain his or her property, the county will refund to you the amount you paid for the property at the tax sale.

20. How will title in the deed to the purchaser be vested?

Title is vested in the name of the actual purchaser. If title is to be vested differently, we require a notarized letter from the individual you are representing, stating the manner in which title is to be vested.

21. How soon can I take possession of a property after purchase at the tax sale?

The successful bidder may generally take possession of a property immediately after making payment in full and confirming that the tax deed to the purchaser has been recorded by the county. Any parties of interest have 1 year from the date of the recording of the tax deed to the purchaser to contest the validity of the sale due to irregularities, therefore, it is strongly advised that the purchaser not make any improvements to their property for 1 year.

In the event that a party of interest is successful at overturning the sale, the sale price would be returned to the purchaser, but any improvements made to the property would not be reimbursed to the person that made them.

22. What happens to property that does not sell at the tax sale?

The owner’s right to redeem the property revives if not sold. Any parcels remaining unsold may be reoffered at a new sale within 90 days of the original sale date, pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code §3692(e).

23. How can I get more information?

Specific information on each parcel will be available on the Govease  website.

To contact the Humboldt County Tax Collector’s Office call 707-476-2450 or 877-448-6829.

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Treasurer - Unsecured Taxes

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1. What is the lien date?

The lien date is the date on which the unsecured tax is attached to the taxable item, (boat, airplane, etc), and that date is January 1 each year.

Tax liens attach as of 12:01 a.m. January 1 proceeding the fiscal year for which the taxes are levied.

2. What is the fiscal year?

A fiscal year for the county begins July 1 and ends June 30 each year.

3. What if I sell the property after January 1?

Then you still are obligated to pay the taxes since you were the owner on January 1.

4. What is the delinquency date for unsecured taxes?

Taxes on the unsecured roll as of July 31, the date by which the bill must be sent, become delinquent if not paid on, or before, August 31.

5. What are the penalties and fees if payment is delinquent?

After August 31 a penalty of 10%, a $29 lien intent fee, and a $17 lien release fee is attached to the unsecured taxes owed. In addition a 1.5% interest rate attaches 60 days following the attachment of 10% penalty. Plus there is an $8 notice fee attached each time a late notice is mailed. Don’t be late!

6. What is a tax lien?

A tax lien is a lien imposed by law upon a property to secure the payment of taxes. A tax lien may be imposed for delinquent taxes owed on real property or personal property. If not paid by the delinquent date, a certificate lien will be recorded which results in the extra charges mentioned above. Once a certificate lien is recorded, a fee to record a release of lien must also be applied.

7. What will happen if I do not pay the unsecured taxes owed?

Unsecured taxes may be collected by seizure of funds from bank accounts, seizure of California income tax refunds, or by seizure and sale of any of the following property belonging or assessed to the assessee: personal property, improvements, and possessory interests.

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UC Cooperative Extension

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1. What is 4-H and how is it connected to UC Cooperative Extension?

The UC 4-H Youth Development Program provides youth with educational projects and events that teach life skills in the following areas:

• Agriculture
• Environmental Education
• Consumer and Family Science
• Health
• Civic Engagement
• Communications
• Technology
• Engineering

As a result of 4-H participation, youth are better prepared to become leaders in their community and to enter the workforce.

4-H is a program within University of California Cooperative Extension.

2. Is there a cost for obtaining information?

No, this program is a public service effort by County of Humboldt and University of California to provide science-based information to residents of the county.