About Tehama County
Tehama County is located in the northern Sacramento Valley of California, including approximately 2,962 square miles of diverse terrain ranging from valley floor to mountainous regions. Tehama County Seat is Red Bluff, situated along Interstate 5 and the historic Sacramento River. Established in 1856, Tehama County has a population of approximately 65,000 residents as of recent census estimates. Tehama County is bordered by Shasta County to the north, Plumas and Butte counties to the east, Glenn County to the south, and Trinity and Mendocino counties to the west.
Major landmarks include the Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge, Lassen Volcanic National Park (portions), and the historic William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park. Tehama County's economy has historically centered on agriculture, particularly almonds, walnuts, olives, and livestock ranching.
Tehama County Courthouse is located at 1775 Yuba Street in Red Bluff. Tehama County Recorder's office, responsible for maintaining property records, deeds, and official documents, operates from the County Administration Building. Tehama County Assessor, also, maintains property tax assessments and parcel information.
Tehama County Clerk-Recorder handles vital records, marriage licenses, and business name filings. What makes Tehama County unique is its position as a gateway between the Sacramento Valley and the Cascade Range, offering both agricultural productivity and outdoor recreation opportunities, along with its rich history as a stopover point during the California Gold Rush era.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Tehama County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of Tehama County. It operates Tehama County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The office is also involved in community policing and crime prevention programs. Notable divisions within the sheriff's office include the patrol division, investigations, and the corrections division, which manages Tehama County's detention facilities. The sheriff's office is committed to public safety and works closely with local communities to address crime and safety concerns.
Police Departments
Tehama County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including Tehama County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments. The Red Bluff Police Department, Corning Police Department, and other city departments handle law enforcement within their respective jurisdictions. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and public safety initiatives, making sure of full coverage across Tehama County. The sheriff's office primarily handles rural and unincorporated areas, while city departments focus on urban and suburban communities.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Tehama County Sheriff's Office, CA 96080, is the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of Tehama County. The Sheriff's Office can be reached, and maintains a website at tehamacountyso.org where citizens can access information about services and programs. The Sheriff operates Tehama County Jail, also known as Tehama County Correctional Facility, located at 1900 South Main Street in Red Bluff.
- Citizens can request arrest records by submitting a written public records request to the Sheriff's Office or the respective police department.
- The Sheriff's Office maintains booking logs that include mugshot images, which can be accessed in person at the Sheriff's Office or through formal public records requests.
Inmate information can be obtained by calling the jail at or through the Sheriff's Office website, which provides an inmate locator service showing current custody status, booking dates, charges, and bail information. Municipal law enforcement is provided by the Red Bluff Police Department, serving Tehama County's largest city, and the Corning Police Department for the City of Corning. Arrest records in Tehama County are considered public information under the California Public Records Act (Government Code Section 6250 et seq.), which requires agencies to provide access to public records upon request unless specifically exempted.
Booking photographs (mugshots) are generally available through the Sheriff's Office and are considered public records in California, though some restrictions may apply for juvenile records or cases involving victims of certain crimes. Processing times for records requests typically range from a few days to several weeks depending on the volume and complexity of the request, and agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying and staff time as permitted under California law.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Tehama County includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic, and sex offender registry records. Tehama County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, providing access to authorized individuals and agencies. Background checks in California can be conducted through the California Department of Justice, which provides full criminal history information. The California Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for residents seeking detailed background information, following state and federal regulations.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Tehama County are maintained by Tehama County Sheriff's Office. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through formal applications, adhering to the California Public Records Act. An arrest record in Tehama County typically includes the individual's personal information, details of the arrest, charges filed, and the arresting agency. The sheriff's office provides guidance on how to request these records, following state laws governing public access to such information.
Jail & Inmate Records
Tehama County Jail, also known as Tehama County Detention Facility, is located in Red Bluff. It handles the booking process for people arrested within Tehama County, providing inmate lookup services through its official website. Visitation rules are specific to this facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments in advance and adhere to strict guidelines. The bond and bail process follows California state law, allowing for the release of inmates pending trial.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Tehama County are taken and retained by Tehama County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest records and can be accessed through the sheriff's office website or by submitting a request. While California does not have specific mugshot removal laws, individuals may seek removal through legal channels if the mugshot is deemed inaccurate or misleading. The sheriff's office provides information on how to search for mugshots and access related records.
Courts & Case Records
Tehama County Superior Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction serving Tehama County, with its main courthouse located at 1775 Yuba Street, Red Bluff, CA 96080. The court can be reached at and maintains a website at tehama.courts.ca.gov where the public can access case information, filing procedures, and court calendars. The Superior Court handles all criminal, civil, family law, probate, juvenile, small claims, and traffic matters within Tehama County.
- The court provides online case access through the California Courts Case Access portal, which allows users to search civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic cases by case number, party name, or attorney name.
- Tehama County Law Library, located within the courthouse, provides legal research resources to attorneys and the public.
California consolidated its court system in 1998, eliminating municipal and justice courts, so all cases now proceed through the Superior Court. Fees for court records vary: certified copies of court documents typically cost $25 for the first page and $1 for each additional page, while electronic access to view case information may be free or involve nominal charges. Walk-in customers can access court records at the courthouse during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
California Rule of Court 2.500 through 2.507 governs public access to court records, establishing that court records are presumed to be open to the public unless sealed by court order or protected by statute. The court also maintains a self-help center to assist individuals representing themselves in civil matters. Remote appearances are available in certain case types.
Property & Public Records
Tehama County Recorder-Clerk's Office, Room 102, Red Bluff, CA 96080, maintains official land and property records for Tehama County. The office can be reached at and operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Recorder maintains documents including grant deeds, deeds of trust, reconveyances, liens, easements, maps, plats, lis pendens, mechanics liens, and other documents affecting real property title. These records date back to Tehama County's formation in 1856, providing a full history of property ownership and encumbrances.
- There is typically a fee for document retrieval and printing.
- Certified copies of recorded documents cost $1 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, with a $5 certification fee.
- The Assessor's website provides a free online parcel search tool allowing users to look up assessed values, property characteristics, and ownership information by parcel number or address.
- This GIS viewer is accessible through Tehama County's official website and is free to use for basic searches and map viewing, though premium services and data downloads may incur fees.
Vital Records
Vital records for Tehama County, California, including birth and death certificates, are available through multiple sources. For births and deaths occurring in Tehama County from July 1905 to present, certified copies can be requested from Tehama County Clerk-Recorder's Office. Red Bluff, CA 96080, phone. Birth certificates cost $28 for the first certified copy and $15 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. Death certificates follow the same fee structure: $21 for the first copy and $15 for additional copies.
- Processing time for walk-in requests is typically same-day if records are readily available, while mail-in requests take approximately 2-4 weeks.
- Eligible requestors include the registrant, immediate family members, legal representatives, and those with court orders.
- Online ordering through VitalChek includes additional service fees but provides convenience and faster processing for eligible applicants.
Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by California Health and Safety Code Section 103526. Marriage licenses are issued by Tehama County Clerk-Recorder at the same location; couples must appear in person to apply, pay a fee of $89 ($94 if certified copy is needed at time of issuance), and the license is valid for 90 days from issuance. Confidential marriage licenses are also available.
Divorce records (marriage dissolution decrees) are maintained by Tehama County Superior Court, not the Clerk-Recorder. For records not available locally or for expedited service, the California Department of Public Health Vital Records Office in Sacramento processes statewide requests; their contact information is available at cdph.ca.gov/vitals, and they offer online ordering through VitalChek with expedited shipping options.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Tehama County involves multiple agencies depending on the business type and activity. Tehama County Clerk-Recorder's Office. Red Bluff, CA 96080, handles Fictitious Business Name (FBA) statements, also known as "Doing Business As" (DBA) filings. Filing a fictitious business name costs approximately $30, and renewals are required every five years. These filings are public records and can be searched at the Clerk-Recorder's office during business hours.
- Sales tax permits are issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).
- Tehama County Chamber of Commerce, located in Red Bluff, provides business support services and networking opportunities; their website is redbluffchamber.com.
For formal business entity formation (corporations, LLCs, limited partnerships), registration is handled by the California Secretary of State's Business Programs Division. The Secretary of State maintains a free online Business Search tool at bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov where anyyou can look up registered business entities, view filing history, check agent for service of process, and determine business status (active, suspended, dissolved). Professional licenses (contractors, real estate agents, healthcare providers, etc.) are regulated by state boards under the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
Local business operations may require county or city business licenses; the City of Red Bluff Finance Department at and the City of Corning at handle business licenses within their respective city limits. Building permits, land use permits, and zoning approvals are managed by Tehama County Planning and Building Department, Red Bluff, phone.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Tehama County, California, are administered by Tehama County Registrar of Voters, Red Bluff, CA 96080. The office can be reached, and election information is available at Tehama County website under the Registrar of Voters section. Voter registration in California can be completed online through the California Secretary of State's website at registertovote.ca.gov, which offers a convenient online voter registration system available in multiple languages.
The voter registration deadline in California is 15 days before any election; however, California also offers Same Day Conditional Voter Registration, allowing eligible citizens to register and vote provisionally at vote centers or county elections offices through Election Day. To find your polling place or vote center in Tehama County, voters can use the lookup tool on Tehama County Registrar's website or call the office directly. California has transitioned to a vote center model under the Voter's Choice Act, providing more flexibility in where and when voters can cast ballots.
Election records that are public in California include voter registration files (excluding certain personal information like birthdates and driver's license numbers), campaign finance disclosure filings available through the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) at fppc.ca.gov, candidate declarations and statements, and precinct-level election results. Tehama County Registrar publishes detailed election results on Tehama County website following each election, broken down by precinct and contest. In the November 2024 general election, Tehama County recorded a voter turnout of approximately 72%, reflecting strong participation typical of presidential election years in rural Northern California counties.
The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring midterm elections for the U.S. House of Representatives, one U.S. Senate seat, California statewide offices including Governor, and state legislative races.
To request an absentee or vote-by-mail ballot in Tehama County, voters can submit an application through Tehama County Registrar's website, by mail, or in person; California law now provides that all registered voters automatically receive vote-by-mail ballots unless they opt out. Voted ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by Tehama County within seven days of the election to be counted. Transparency of election records in California is governed by the California Elections Code and the California Public Records Act, which mandate public access to voter files, campaign disclosures, and election results, while protecting sensitive personal information.
Economy & Demographics
Tehama County's economy is predominantly based on agriculture, which remains the leading economic sector and employer in Tehama County.Major agricultural employers include nut processing facilities and livestock operations. The median household income in Tehama County is approximately $49,000, which is below the California state median, reflecting the rural agricultural character of Tehama County. Beyond agriculture, key economic sectors include healthcare, education, retail trade, and government services. Dignity Health St.
- Tourism related to outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and visits to Lassen Volcanic National Park, provides seasonal economic activity.
Elizabeth Community Hospital in Red Bluff is one of the largest employers in Tehama County. Tehama County Office of Education and local school districts provide substantial employment. Retail and service businesses concentrated along Interstate 5 serve both local residents and travelers.
The timber industry, while reduced from historical levels, still contributes to the local economy through private forest management and small-scale lumber operations in the western mountainous portions of Tehama County. The Rolling Hills Casino, operated by the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, is a significant employer and economic contributor, offering gaming, entertainment, dining, and hotel services. Recent economic development efforts have focused on attracting light manufacturing, improving broadband infrastructure, and supporting small business development.
Unemployment rates in Tehama County have historically run slightly higher than state averages, typically ranging from 5-8% depending on seasonal agricultural cycles.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online | Property: Yes: Free Parcel Search | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Online | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person/Mail Primary | Business: Yes: State Online Search | Elections: Yes: Online Results & Info | Overall Score: 7/10 — Tehama County provides solid access to property and court records online, with good election transparency, though some law enforcement and vital records require traditional in-person or mail requests.
Official Government Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Tehama County
Explore public records for 13 cities and communities in Tehama County, California.