Frequently Asked Questions
Modoc County, CA
What can I build on this property?
Permitted uses depend on the zoning (e.g., agricultural, rural residential). Modoc County allows homes, accessory structures, and agriculture within those zones. For precise rules, contact:
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Can you call the county for me?
We can’t call on your behalf, but here’s who to contact:
Planning Department (land use/zoning)
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Where can I gather more information about my property?
Use the following departments:
Assessor: Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6218 | Website: https://www.co.modoc.ca.us/departments/assessor
Treasurer-Tax Collector: Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6223 | Website: https://tax.modoc.us
Recorder: Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6217 | Website: https://www.co.modoc.ca.us/departments/recorder
Is there a Homeowners Association or Property Owners Association?
Not tracked by the County. You can check via the deed or title report from the Recorder’s office.
Can we camp on our property?
Generally not allowed unless zoning permits it or you receive a special permit.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Are the property taxes up to date?
Check current and past property taxes at:
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6223
Website: https://tax.modoc.us
Are there any liens on this property?
Liens are recorded in the Recorder’s office.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6217
What is the title transfer process?
Handled through a title company. The deed is recorded with the Recorder’s office.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6217
Does the property have road access?
Verify via GIS maps (on Planning site) to see if the parcel adjoins public roads or easements.
Are there any easements or restrictions on the property?
These appear in recorded documents at the Recorder’s office or GIS.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6217
Is the land buildable or usable year-round?
Depends on zoning, slope, and access. The Planning Department can advise on permitting.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Is this property in a flood zone or fire zone?
Use Modoc’s GIS mapping and Planning’s Environmental section to check hazard overlays.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Does the property have utilities like water, power, or sewer?
Utilities vary by location. Use GIS and contact providers (well drillers, PG&E, local septic companies) to confirm availability.
How do I get water, electricity, or internet to the property?
Water: Well permit via Environmental Health
Electricity: Contact PG&E
Internet: Use local ISP or satellite
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6310
Can I visit the property before I buy it?
Yes—site visits are encouraged. Bring parcel maps or GPS coordinates.
How do I transfer this land to someone else in the future?
Sign a Grant or Quitclaim Deed and file it with the Recorder’s office.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6217
Can I combine this property with another one?
Yes—through a Lot Line Adjustment or Parcel Merger approved by Planning.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Can I put a mobile home or RV on the property?
Check zoning rules and permit requirements.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Can I raise animals or farm on the land?
Yes—rural/agricultural zones typically allow this.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Can I use the property for Airbnb, tiny homes, or other rentals?
Likely possible with a Conditional Use Permit.
Telephone Number: 530‑233‑6406
Is hunting or shooting allowed on the land?
Allowed on private land outside city limits, following CA Fish & Wildlife rules.
Telephone Number: 530‑225‑2300
Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov