Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno County, CA

What can I build on this property?

Permitted uses depend on zoning—e.g., residential, agricultural, or rural. Common rural uses include single-family homes, barns, accessory structures, and farming.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/Departments/Public-Works-and-Planning/divisions-of-public-works-and-planning

Can you call the county for me?

We can’t call for you, but you can reach the Planning Department for zoning and land-use questions.

Telephone Number: 559‑262‑4078 or 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Where can I gather more information about my property?

Assessor (parcel info/maps): Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3534 | Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/Departments/Public-Works-and-Planning

Recorder (deeds, easements): Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3476 | Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/Departments/Public-Works-and-Planning

Tax Collector: Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3496 | Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Is there a Homeowners Association or Property Owners Association?

HOAs/POAs aren’t tracked by the County. You’ll need to check the deed or request a title report.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3476

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/Departments/Public-Works-and-Planning

Can we camp on our property?

Camping is allowed only if the zoning permits it or with a special permit.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Are the property taxes up to date?

Check current and past payments through the Tax Collector/Auditor–Controller.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3496

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

What is the title transfer process?

Typically done via escrow and title company, then the deed is recorded with the County Recorder.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3476

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Does the property have road access?

Check parcel maps or contact Planning or Assessor to verify if public roads or easements exist.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Are there any easements or restrictions on the property?

These are listed in recorded documents with the Recorder or in title reports.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3476

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Is the land buildable or usable year-round?

Depending on zoning, slope, soil, and access conditions. Contact Planning for a pre-development consultation.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Is this property in a flood zone or fire zone?

You can use Fresno County GIS or FEMA maps, and confirm with Planning or Public Works.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Does the property have utilities like water, power, or sewer?

Utility availability varies by area. Use GIS, contact PG&E, and local water or sanitation districts.

PG&E Telephone Number: 800‑743‑5000

Website: https://www.pge.com

How do I get water, electricity, or internet to the property?

Water: Drill a private well or connect to a district

Electricity: Apply to PG&E

Internet: Choose satellite (e.g. Starlink) or local providers

How do I transfer this land to someone else in the future?

Record a Grant, Quitclaim, or similar deed with the County Recorder.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑3476

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Can I combine this property with another one?

Yes, via Lot Line Adjustment or Parcel Merger—apply with Planning.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Can I put a mobile home or RV on the property?

Mobile homes often require permits; RVs are commonly allowed temporarily. Confirm zonation.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Can I raise animals or farm on the land?

Yes, subject to zoning (AG, RR, etc.). Planning and Environmental Health can clarify livestock rules.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Can I use the property for Airbnb, tiny homes, or other rentals?

Short-term rentals or tiny homes may need a Conditional Use Permit depending on the zoning.

Telephone Number: 559‑600‑4230

Website: https://www.fresnocountyca.gov

Is hunting or shooting allowed on the land?

Generally allowed on private unincorporated land with safe setbacks, following CA Fish & Wildlife regulations.

Telephone Number: 559‑243‑4014

Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov