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1. How is the aircraft value determined?

The value is determined by reviewing the annual Aircraft Property Statement and value guides such as Aircraft Blue Book and VREF.

These price guides are based upon market transactions and are a reliable source of information for aircraft valuations. Please keep in mind, the price guides that are publicly available online typically correspond to the current date and may not match the value as of January 1st.

2. Why is the average retail value, as listed in the price guide for January 1, different from the assessed value?

California Revenue and Taxation Code, Property Tax Rule 10, mandates that the Assessor include within the value all components of the full economic cost of placing property in service. An aircraft value may typically include an adjustment to the average retail base to add sales or use taxes, freight or shipping cost, labor and materials, or after-market additions.

3. Why did my aircraft value go up/down from last year?

For the purpose of California property taxation, aircraft are valued at their fair market value each and every year as of the January 1 lien date. Values determined for previous years cannot be used as a factor in determining the current year’s value. Values can increase as well as decrease from year to year because of fluctuations in the market. Aircraft, unlike real property, are not subject to a base year value or a minimum inflationary factor. The fair market value of an aircraft on lien date is unrelated to its net book value (purchase price less depreciation).

4. What if I do not agree with the aircraft value?

You may call, email, or write to the Assessor’s Office to discuss the value. When making a written request for an informal review, please note that if the value was the result of an estimated assessment made by the Assessor for failure to file a property statement by May 7, you will need to complete and return an Aircraft Property Statement (PDF) with your request for an informal review.

When writing to request an informal review, please provide the following in support of your opinion of value:

• Comparable sales of aircraft that have sold close to January 1st. Sales occurring after March 31st may not be considered.
• Photos and estimates to repair (if condition considerably affects the value).
• The exact year, make, and model (if not previously provided).
• Documentation showing the insured value as of January 1st.
• An appraisal for the aircraft.
• Any additional documentation that would support your opinion of value.

Placer County Assessor’s Office Contact Information:

• Mailing Address: 2980 Richardson Dr. Auburn, CA 95603
• Phone: 530-889-4300
• Email: [email protected]

5. What if I still do not agree with the aircraft value after an Assessor’s Informal Review?

You can file an Assessment Appeal Application online or by calling 530-889-4020. In order to appeal an assessment, you must file an Assessment Appeal Application with the Clerk of the Board between July 2 and September 15 (or the next business day if the September 15 falls on a weekend or holiday).

Should your value notice be the result of an escape assessment, you have 60 days from the date of the Notice of Enrollment of Escape Assessment to file an Assessment Appeal Application.