Fresno Property Tax Database
Property tax records in Fresno are administered by Fresno County offices. The city does not directly handle property taxes. All valuation, billing, and collection functions happen at the county level through the Assessor and Recorder office and the Tax Collector. This follows California's Proposition 13 structure that applies statewide. Fresno property owners can access records online, pay bills through county portals, and file exemption claims with county staff. The city collects business taxes separately through city offices, but these are different from property taxes on real estate. Property tax bills may include special assessments for local improvements or Business Improvement Districts in certain areas of the city.
Fresno Quick Facts
Fresno County Property Tax Offices
Fresno is in Fresno County. All property tax work for the city goes through county offices. The Assessor and Recorder office evaluates all real estate and sets values based on purchase price and improvements. They also process exemptions and maintain ownership records. The Tax Collector sends bills and collects payments twice yearly.
To search Fresno property records, use Fresno County online systems. The county provides free access to assessment data, tax bill information, and payment history. These tools cover every property in Fresno and throughout the county.
Contact the Fresno County Assessor and Recorder at 559-600-3534. The office is at 2281 Tulare Street, Room 201, Fresno, CA 93721. Email questions to assessorWebmail@fresnocountyca.gov. Visit assessor.fresnocountyca.gov for forms and online search tools.
For tax bills and payments, reach the Tax Collector office. The county website has payment portals where you can view bills and pay online. Electronic checks typically have no fee. Credit cards charge processing fees based on payment amount.
Fresno City Business Taxes and Assessments
The City of Fresno collects business taxes from companies operating in the city. This brings in about $21 million annually. Business taxes are separate from property taxes. They are based on gross receipts or number of employees. Contact the city Finance Department at 559-621-6880 for business tax questions.
Fresno has a Tourism Business Improvement District with a two percent assessment. This funds marketing and promotion for the hospitality industry. Hotels and similar businesses pay this charge. It appears on your property tax bill if your property is in the tourism BID.
Some areas have special assessments for street lights, landscaping, or other improvements. These charges show up on your property tax bill as separate line items. The amounts vary by district and property location.
How to Search Fresno Property Information
Use Fresno County online portals to look up any address in the city. Enter the street address, Assessor Parcel Number, or owner name. The system displays current assessed value, property characteristics, exemptions, and recent sales. Access is free and available any time.
To view tax bills, visit the Tax Collector section of the county website. Search by parcel number or address. The database shows current bills, past payments, and any penalties or fees. You can download bill copies and payment receipts as PDF files.
Pay property taxes online through the county portal. Electronic checks are usually free. Credit and debit cards have convenience fees. You can also pay in person at county offices or mail checks to the address on your bill with the payment stub.
Property Tax Exemptions for Fresno Residents
Fresno homeowners can claim the Homeowners' Exemption to reduce assessed value by $7,000. You must own and live in the home as your main residence. File by February 15 with the County Assessor. Once approved, it renews automatically each year. Get forms at assessor.fresnocountyca.gov or the Assessor office.
Veterans with service-connected disabilities qualify for additional exemptions. The amount depends on disability rating and household income. Disabled persons under 62 also qualify for an exemption. Call the Assessor at 559-600-3534 for forms and eligibility details.
Senior citizens can defer property taxes through the state Property Tax Postponement Program. You must be at least 62 years old, have 40 percent equity in your home, and household income under $55,181. Interest accrues at five percent yearly. Apply from October 1 to February 10 at sco.ca.gov.
Note: File all exemption claims before the February 15 deadline to ensure processing for the current tax year.
Fresno Property Tax Due Dates
Fresno property owners get two tax bills per year from the county. First installment is due November 1 and becomes delinquent at 5:00 pm December 10. A ten percent penalty applies to late payments. Second installment is due February 1 and delinquent April 10 with another ten percent penalty plus cost fees.
You must pay on time even if you do not receive a bill. Contact the Tax Collector if your bill does not arrive. You are responsible for knowing due dates regardless of whether the bill reaches you. The county mails bills to the owner of record as of January 1 each year.
Make online payments by 5:00 pm on the due date. Mailed payments need postmarks on or before the due date. In-person payments are accepted at county offices until 5:00 pm. Keep receipts and confirmation numbers as proof of payment.
Appeal Your Property Assessment
Fresno property owners can appeal assessed values through the Fresno County Assessment Appeals Board. File between July 2 and September 15 each year. Get forms from the County Assessor or the Clerk of the Board. Some counties charge a filing fee based on property value.
Gather evidence before you file. Recent sales of similar properties help prove market value. Professional appraisals support your case but cost money. Photos showing damage or needed repairs also help. More evidence gives you better odds of winning.
The Appeals Board schedules a hearing. You present your evidence. The Assessor presents their valuation. Board members review both sides and decide the correct value. You can represent yourself. Many property owners win without hiring professionals. A successful appeal reduces your assessed value and lowers your tax bill for that year.
Get Help with Fresno Property Taxes
The Fresno County Assessor staff answers questions about property values and assessments. Call 559-600-3534 or visit 2281 Tulare Street, Room 201 in Fresno. The website at assessor.fresnocountyca.gov has FAQs and instructional materials.
For bill and payment help, contact the Tax Collector office. Staff can explain charges on your bill, locate payment records, and help with payment plans if you have trouble paying on time. County offices are in downtown Fresno.
The Taxpayers' Rights Advocate Office at the California Board of Equalization helps with property tax problems. This independent office protects taxpayer rights statewide. Call 916-274-3400 or email traoffice@boe.ca.gov for assistance.
Other Central Valley Cities
Other large cities in the Central Valley also have property taxes handled by their county offices. Each may have different special assessments.