San Diego County Property Tax Audits Intensify Amid Record Property Values

Aerial view of San Diego County with properties and landmarks

San Diego County, December 3, 2025

San Diego County has ramped up property tax audits to ensure compliance among property owners and businesses, responding to a significant rise in property values that have reached a record $806 billion. The increased audits come as the county seeks to maintain tax revenue in light of a 4.95% growth from the previous year, despite a 23% drop in home sales. Property owners are urged to review their tax obligations to avoid penalties.

San Diego County Property Tax Audits Intensify Amid Record Property Values

San Diego County, California – In the past 48 hours, San Diego County has intensified its property tax audits, targeting compliance among property owners and businesses. This action responds to the county’s record-high property values, which have reached $806 billion, marking a 4.95% increase from the previous year.

Record Property Values and Tax Revenue

The San Diego County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk reported that the gross assessed value of all taxable properties—residential, commercial, and industrial—has reached a record $806 billion. This figure reflects a 4.95% increase, or $38 billion, over last year. Despite a 23% drop in home sales—the lowest since 2007—low housing inventory has kept prices strong, fueling steady growth in land values.

Increased Tax Audits and Compliance Measures

In response to the surge in property values, the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office has ramped up property tax audits. These audits aim to ensure that all property owners and businesses are accurately reporting and paying their taxes. The county has also been sending out notices to property owners who have not paid their 2024-25 property taxes, urging them to settle their bills to avoid additional penalties.

Background on Property Tax Deadlines and Penalties

Property taxes in San Diego County are due in two installments: the first in December and the second in April. Each late installment incurs a 10% penalty, along with a $10 fee if the second installment is late. Property owners are encouraged to pay their taxes promptly to avoid these penalties.

Implications for Property Owners and Businesses

Property owners and businesses in San Diego County are advised to ensure their tax payments are current to avoid penalties. The increased audits signify the county’s commitment to maintaining tax compliance and securing revenue for public services. Property owners should review their tax bills and consult with tax professionals if they have questions or concerns about their assessments.

Conclusion

San Diego County’s record property values have led to heightened property tax audits and compliance efforts. Property owners and businesses are urged to stay informed about their tax obligations and adhere to payment deadlines to avoid penalties and support the county’s public services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the current assessed value of properties in San Diego County?

The gross assessed value of all taxable properties in San Diego County has reached a record $806 billion, marking a 4.95% increase from the previous year.

What are the penalties for late property tax payments in San Diego County?

Each late installment of property taxes incurs a 10% penalty, along with a $10 fee if the second installment is late. To avoid these penalties, property owners are encouraged to pay their taxes promptly.

How can property owners ensure compliance with tax obligations?

Property owners should review their tax bills and consult with tax professionals if they have questions or concerns about their assessments. Staying informed about tax obligations and adhering to payment deadlines is crucial to avoid penalties and support the county’s public services.

Key Features of San Diego County’s Property Tax Situation

Feature Details
Record Property Values $806 billion, a 4.95% increase from the previous year.
Property Tax Deadlines First installment due in December; second installment due in April.
Late Payment Penalties 10% penalty plus a $10 fee for late second installment.
Increased Tax Audits Enhanced audits to ensure compliance among property owners and businesses.

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STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER

The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.

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