When Are Property Taxes Due in San Diego?

Property taxes in San Diego County provide essential funding for local services. These taxes contribute to public schools, support law enforcement and fire departments, and maintain other vital infrastructure and services. Understanding these annual taxes and their payment requirements is important for property owners.

Annual Property Tax Deadlines

San Diego County property taxes are paid in two annual installments. The first installment is due on November 1st and becomes delinquent if not paid by December 10th. The second installment is due on February 1st and becomes delinquent after April 10th. If any of these delinquent dates fall on a weekend or a legal holiday, the payment deadline is extended to the next business day.

Property tax bills are mailed out in late September or early October each year. Property owners are responsible for obtaining their tax bills, as failure to receive a bill does not prevent penalties. If a bill is not received by November 1st, taxpayers can access their property tax bill information online through the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s website. The website allows users to search for their bill using a parcel number, mailing address, or unsecured bill number.

Paying Your San Diego Property Taxes

Online payment is a convenient option, processed through the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s website. Taxpayers can pay using an e-check (ACH) at no additional cost, and this method provides immediate confirmation. Credit and debit card payments are also accepted online, though these may incur a convenience fee. To make an online payment, taxpayers usually need their parcel number or bill number.

Payments can also be made by mail, requiring the payment stub to be included with a check or money order. Ensure the envelope is postmarked by the U.S. Postal Service on or before the due date to avoid penalties. The correct mailing address for the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector is San Diego County Administration Center, 1600 Pacific Hwy, Room 162, San Diego, CA 92101-2474. For those preferring to pay in person, payments are accepted at the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office during standard business hours.

Penalties for Delayed Payments

Failure to pay property taxes by the specified deadlines results in financial penalties. If the first installment is not paid by December 10th, a 10% penalty is applied to the unpaid amount. If the second installment is not paid by April 10th, an additional 10% penalty is assessed, along with a $10 cost. These penalties are mandated by California law.

Continued non-payment beyond the fiscal year-end of June 30th leads to further charges. Delinquent secured accounts are transferred to the defaulted tax roll on July 1st, incurring additional penalties of 1.5% per month, which totals 18% annually, plus a $33 redemption fee. If property taxes remain unpaid for five or more years, the property may become subject to a tax sale.