Frequently Asked Questions
Imperial County, CA
What can I build on this property?
Permitted uses depend on the zoning (e.g., agricultural, residential). Typical rural uses include single‑family homes, accessory buildings, and farming.
Telephone Number: 760‑482‑4244
Can you call the county for me?
We can't call for you, but you can contact the Department of Planning & Development for zoning or land‑use questions.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Where can I gather more information about my property?
Assessor (parcel info/maps): Telephone Number: 760‑482‑4244 | Website: http://www.co.imperial.ca.us/Assessor/Index.htm
Recorder (deeds/easements): Telephone Number: 442‑265‑1077 | Website: https://recorder.imperialcounty.org
Is there a Homeowners Association or Property Owners Association?
HOAs/POAs are not tracked by the County. You’ll need to check the deed or get a title report from the Recorder’s office.
Telephone Number: 442‑265‑1077
Website: https://recorder.imperialcounty.org
Can we camp on our property?
Private camping depends on zoning. Contact Planning & Development to see if short‑term camping is allowed or requires a permit.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Are the property taxes up to date?
You can verify property tax status and payment history via the Treasurer-Tax Collector.
Telephone Number: 442‑265‑1250
What is the title transfer process?
Handled by a title company or through self-recorded deed transfer with the County Recorder.
Telephone Number: 442‑265‑1077
Website: https://recorder.imperialcounty.org
Does the property have road access?
Check parcel maps via the Assessor’s Office or contact Planning to confirm access.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Are there any easements or restrictions on the property?
These are found in the title report or recorded documents.
Telephone Number: 442‑265‑1077
Website: https://recorder.imperialcounty.org
Is the land buildable or usable year-round?
Depends on zoning, slope, utilities, and access. Contact Planning for feasibility.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Is this property in a flood zone or fire zone?
Use the county GIS tool or FEMA maps. Contact Planning or Public Works for verification.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Does the property have utilities like water, power, or sewer?
Utility availability varies. Use GIS or contact providers. PG&E handles electric service.
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 service district
Electricity: PG&E
Internet: Local ISP or satellite
How do I transfer this land to someone else in the future?
Execute and record a Grant or Quitclaim Deed with the Recorder’s Office.
Telephone Number: 442‑265‑1077
Website: https://recorder.imperialcounty.org
Can I combine this property with another one?
Yes—contact Planning to initiate a Lot Line Adjustment or Parcel Merger.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Can I put a mobile home or RV on the property?
Zoning may allow mobile homes with a permit. RVs may be restricted or temporary only.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Can I raise animals or farm on the land?
Yes, if zoning is agricultural or rural residential.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Can I use the property for Airbnb, tiny homes, or other rentals?
Short-term rentals may require zoning approval or a Conditional Use Permit.
Telephone Number: 760‑339‑4220
Website: https://www.co.imperial.ca.us
Is hunting or shooting allowed on the land?
May be allowed on rural land outside city limits. Follow CA Fish & Wildlife regulations.
Telephone Number: 858‑467‑4201
Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov