California property taxes are paid in two main installments: the first is due November 1 (late after December 10), and the second is due February 1 (late after April 10) each tax year.

Key due dates in California

  • First installment (secured property)
    • Legally due: November 1.
* Last day to pay without penalty: December 10 by 5 p.m. (or close of business).
  • Second installment (secured property)
    • Legally due: February 1.
* Last day to pay without penalty: April 10 by 5 p.m. (or close of business).

Many counties and real estate pros suggest thinking of December 10 and April 10 as the “real” drop‑dead dates for avoiding penalties, even though the law uses November 1 and February 1 as the formal due dates.

Quick scoop for 2025–2026 season

For the 2025–2026 California property tax year:

  • First installment
    • Due: November 1, 2025.
* Penalty‑free through: December 10, 2025.
  • Second installment
    • Due: February 1, 2026.
* Penalty‑free through: April 10, 2026.

If you pay after those grace dates, counties typically add a percentage penalty plus possible costs, and unpaid amounts can eventually lead to tax- defaulted status and, in extreme cases, tax sale after several years.

Extra notes and “fine print”

  • Some counties may have slightly different office cutoff times, but the 5 p.m./close‑of‑business rule is standard in state guidance.
  • Unsecured property taxes (for things like some business property) follow different August due/delinquent dates.
  • Always double‑check your specific county tax collector’s website or your bill for any local nuances or online‑payment deadlines.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.