How does the Assessor distinguish which Possessory Interests are assessable and those which are not?

For a Possessory Interest to be taxable it must be:

  • Durable: There must be reasonably certain evidence to show that the possession will continue for a determinable period of time.
  • Exclusive: Its holder must be able to exclude others from interfering with the use of the property, (or, where there is concurrent use, the concurrent use does not significantly interfere with the holder’s use).
  • Independent: The use must be independent of the public owner. That is, its holder may exercise authority and control of the property apart from the rules and regulations of the public owner.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Possessory Interest?
2. Why do I have to pay property taxes if the property is tax-exempt?
3. How do Possessory Interests differ from other assessments?
4. How does the Assessor distinguish which Possessory Interests are assessable and those which are not?
5. Why are Possessory Interest holders being charged property tax in addition to the rent they pay to a government entity? Isn’t that a form of double taxation?
6. How are Possessory Interests valued?
7. Why are Possessory Interests assessed on the Unsecured Tax Roll?
8. How do Possessory Interest Unsecured tax bills differ from Secured Roll tax bills?
9. I received a tax bill for the year July 1 through June 30, but I vacated the property in March. Why do I have to pay for the year after I vacated?
10. Where can additional information about Possessory Interest Assessments be obtained?