Frequently Asked Questions
Humboldt County, CA
What can I build on this property?
Allowed uses depend on zoning—typically includes residential homes, ADUs, agriculture, or timber. Check with Planning.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Can you call the county for me?
We can’t call on your behalf, but you can reach Planning directly.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Where can I gather more information about my property?
Assessor: Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7663 | Website: https://humboldtgov.org/168/Assessor
Recorder: Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7593 | Website: https://humboldtgov.org/169/Recorder
Tax Collector: Telephone Number: 707‑476‑2450 | Website: https://humboldtgov.org/173/Treasurer-Tax-Collector
Is there a Homeowners Association or Property Owners Association?
HOAs aren’t tracked by the county. Look up via title report or recorded CC&Rs.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7593
Website: https://humboldtgov.org/169/Recorder
Can we camp on our property?
Camping may be permitted temporarily under certain zoning with a permit. Confirm with Planning.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Are the property taxes up to date?
Check status and payments through the Treasurer-Tax Collector.
Telephone Number: 707‑476‑2450
Website: https://humboldtgov.org/173/Treasurer-Tax-Collector
What is the title transfer process?
Handled via title company or deed recording. Final step is submitting to Recorder.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7593
Website: https://humboldtgov.org/169/Recorder
Does the property have road access?
Review GIS or parcel maps to determine access. Planning can help verify.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Are there any easements or restrictions on the property?
Check the title report or recorded deeds for easements or CC&Rs.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7593
Website: https://humboldtgov.org/169/Recorder
Is the land buildable or usable year-round?
Depends on zoning, topography, environmental constraints, and access.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Is this property in a flood zone or fire zone?
Use Humboldt County GIS or FEMA maps. Planning Department can verify.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Does the property have utilities like water, power, or sewer?
Use GIS or contact PG&E and local water/sewer 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 well or connect to public
Electric: PG&E
Internet: satellite or regional providers
How do I transfer this land to someone else in the future?
Execute and record a deed (Grant or Quitclaim) with the Recorder.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7593
Website: https://humboldtgov.org/169/Recorder
Can I combine this property with another one?
Yes, contact Planning for a Lot Line Adjustment or Parcel Merger.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Can I put a mobile home or RV on the property?
Subject to zoning. Temporary use may require a permit.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Can I raise animals or farm on the land?
Usually allowed in agricultural and rural zones. Planning can confirm.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Can I use the property for Airbnb, tiny homes, or other rentals?
Short-term rentals and tiny homes require zoning review and may need permits.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑7541
Is hunting or shooting allowed on the land?
May be permitted on rural private land with proper safety rules. Follow CA Fish & Wildlife guidelines.
Telephone Number: 707‑445‑6493 (local office)
Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov