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Adult & Family Health

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1. What resources and services does Public Health provide for children and adults?

Public Health has a variety of programs available for children, adults and families. Resource referral and linkage is also a large component of the services provided. Some of the programs available include:
• Communicable Disease Investigation, Prevention and Control
• Clinic Services - free or low cost services for women’s health
• Immunizations for adults and children
• Lead Poisoning Prevention Program-offers education and surveillance
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) for supplemental food, nutrition education
• Child Health & Disability Prevention (CHDP)- referrals and follow ups for periodic health screening
• Keep Baby Safe Child Car Seat Program- education on proper use of car seats, current laws
• California Children’s Services (CCS)-assists with medical expenses for children 0-21 with qualifying medical conditions
• Targeted Case Management (TCM)-Public Health Nurse makes home visits to referred families to provide health assessments, resources and referrals, health and life skills teaching
• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)-offers support and home visits to affected families
• Emergency Preparedness (EP)- emergency response planning and preparation
• Be On Board Health Van (BOB)- travels to schools and provides many types of medical services and resources
• Tobacco Prevention and Education-provides a comprehensive approach to prevention, education, quit smoking and chewing strategies
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)-provides oversight services to maintain efficient emergency medical services

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Adult Protective Services

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1. Does any adult qualify for APS services?

No. To qualify for APS services, one must have a protective need and be over the age of 65 years, or between 18 and 64 years with limitations to his or her activities of daily living (ADL).

2. Can APS place people in facilities against their will?

No, APS cannot make a person enter a facility. APS can assist persons who are willing to enter a board and care or skilled nursing facility.

3. Can APS take elders into protective custody?

The process of placement of elder or dependent adults into protective custody may differ from county to county, and requires a resolution by the county’s Board of Supervisors. The Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors has not adopted this resolution.

4. Is APS confidential?

An individual’s APS case is confidential. The reporting party of an APS case is also kept confidential, and APS can only release the identity of a reporting party at the direction of the Court. Collateral contacts may be questioned regarding their level of involvement, or to gather additional information as it relates to allegations and findings.

5. Does APS go to homes unannounced?

Yes. An APS investigation usually starts with an unannounced home visit. If an individual self-reports, a visit can be prearranged. If there is a concern that an unannounced visit might result in harm to the individual, APS will try to prearrange a meeting at an alternate location.

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Air Polution

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1. How do I find out if it is a burn day?

Burn days are determined by meteorologists from the California Air Resource Board and are based upon expected weather conditions and current air quality. When burning is allowed by CALFIRE (typically burn season is from late fall through spring), please call the Air Pollution Control District’s burn line 209-533-5598

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Animal Control

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1. Where is the shelter located?

Animal Control receives mail at 2 South Green Street in Sonora but the office is actually at 10040 Victoria Way in Jamestown. If headed west on Highway 108, go one mile past the signal at the town of Jamestown. Turn right at C & C Minimart. The road will dead end. Turn right again and proceed to the end of the cul-de-sac. Animal Control shares a building with the Humane Society of Tuolumne County.

2. What is the difference between Animal Control and the Humane Society?

Animal Control is a government agency charged with enforcing the state laws and county ordinances pertaining to domestic animals. We provide a shelter for stray and seized animals. Animal Control evacuates and shelters animals during large scale emergencies.

Humane Society is a non profit organization that is funded by donations and grants. They have a limited entry shelter that accepts surrendered animals from the public. They also transfer some animals from the Animal Control shelter to their facility. The Humane Society provides spay/neuter assistance and humane education. Their phone number is 984-5489.

Both Animal Control and the Humane Society have animals available for adoption.

3. How do I license my dog?

All dogs in the State of California are required to obtain a rabies vaccination by the age of 4 months. They are also required to be licensed in the jurisdiction in which they live. In Tuolumne County all dogs must be licensed within 30 days of the following: turning 4 months; moving to the county; or ownership. A late penalty will apply if not done within this time frame. The only exception is that there will be no penalty for young dogs up to 6 months old if they have been spayed or neutered.

Licensing can be done in person at the shelter office (10040 Victoria Way, Jamestown) Monday – Friday 9:00-1:00.

There is no licensing during shelter hours on Saturday.

Licensing can also be done via mail to 2 South Green Street, Sonora, CA 95370. Be sure to include a legal size Stamped Self Addressed Envelope with $.70 postage.

To obtain a license provide a rabies vaccination certificate from a veterinarian. To obtain the discount price for altered dogs, include a spay/neuter certificate first time licensing or if the status of the dog has changed. One or three year licensing is available. The rabies vaccination must be valid for the duration to qualify for three year licensing.

Pricing: 1 year altered $6.25
1 year unaltered $20.50
3 year altered $17.00
3 year unaltered $60.00

Penalties: If late less than one year $5.00
If late greater than one year $10.00

4. Are there low cost vaccination clinics?

Tuolumne County Animal Control and the Tuolumne County Veterinary Association provide low cost rabies vaccination clinics from the end of May until the beginning of September. They are held at different locations throughout the county. All of the clinics are for dogs only except the first and the last. These two clinics are held at the shelter and are open to dogs, cats, and livestock. A current schedule is posted on this website around April of each year.

5. What happens if I am bitten by a dog or my dog bites someone?

The State of California is a declared rabies area. Any time an animal that is susceptible to rabies, such as a dog or cat, bites or scratches someone it needs to quarantined. This can typically be done at home if the dog has a current rabies vaccination (given at least 30 days before the bite). In the case of home quarantine the animal must be kept within 4 solid walls such as a house, garage, or shed. An Animal Control Officer will come to the home to approve where the animal is being kept and have the owner sign a quarantine contract. Dogs that do not have a current rabies vaccination must go to the shelter or a veterinarian’s office for quarantine.

Be sure to seek medical aid if bitten by an animal. Rinse wounds as quickly as possible even if you only have access to water. If there is no animal to quarantine then rabies post exposure treatment will be recommended. Rabies is a fatal disease.

6. What happens if my dog or cat is exposed to wildlife?

Skunks and bats are the main carriers of rabies in California however; all mammals are susceptible to rabies. If an exposure occurs, such as your dog fights with a raccoon or your cat catches a bat, it is imperative to booster the animal for rabies within 48 hours. If the wildlife specimen is available it will be tested for rabies. If the test comes back positive or there is no specimen to test then the dog or cat will need to be quarantined. If the dog or cat had a preexisting current rabies vaccination and received the booster then the quarantine will be 30 days. If it did not have a preexisting current rabies vaccination or did not receive the booster then the quarantine is 6 months. It is important to keep all pets current on rabies vaccinations.

7. What if I have a complaint about an animal?

You will need to call our office during regular phone hours Monday- Friday 9:00-4:00. It is imperative that we actually speak to the reporting party to obtain all the necessary information. We do not handle anonymous or emailed complaints. A phone number must be provided for contact. It is also important to have the physical address so that prior history can be investigated. Please be as specific as possible with dates and times. Reporting party identities will be kept confidential unless the person chooses to be a witness.

Animal Control handles all legitimate complaints but priority is given to threats to public safety and animal welfare. In cases where a violation has occurred but it was not witnessed by the Animal Control Officer we cannot write a citation or submit a case to the District Attorney. It is up to the citizen witness to be willing to testify in these cases. It is also important to report problems when they first start to occur so that the history is documented.

8. What if I see a neglected animal?

Call the office with the address or good directions if the location is something not marked, such as a pasture. Take photos if possible. Animal Control has a series of legal steps that must be followed to handle neglect cases. Unless the animal is in a life threatening situation, we cannot immediately seize it. Please resist the urge to feed and water the animal. The Animal Control Officer needs to document the conditions for evidence in a hearing or in court.

Everyone has personal opinions about the right way to treat and maintain animals but keep in mind that Animal Control can only intervene if the law is being broken.

9. What about barking dogs?

It is not illegal for a dog to bark. It is a violation if it creates a chronic annoyance, disturbance, or discomfort to those in close proximity. It is a fact that most nuisance barking occurs when the owner is not home. Dogs are social animals and get lonely and bored. Sometimes the solution is as simple as letting the neighbor know that their dog is barking and giving them an opportunity to fix the problem.

When reporting a barking dog to Animal Control it is important to have the correct physical address and be as detailed as possible as to when precisely the barking is occurring. A history check will be done and if this is the first complaint or there has not been one in 6 months, a letter will be sent to the dog owner. It will not include the name of the complaining party but will give specifics about the complaint and ideas for addressing the problem.

If the problem continues then we will need at least two different households willing to document dates and times of barking. A complaint will be submitted to the District Attorney office and they will determine if charges are to be filed based on the witness testimony.

Due to staffing cut backs Animal Control does not routinely go out on barking dog complaints. The exception is that if there are at least three reporting parties being disturbed. When time permits Animal Control will send an Officer to the neighborhood to park a discreet distance from the residence and listen for barking. If the ACO witnesses the dog barking for 30 minutes then a citation can be issued and/or the dog impounded.

10. What do I do about feral cats?

Animal Control loans cat traps to capture feral or stray cats. We do not set the traps or pick up the cats. There is a $20.00 deposit that is refunded when the trap is returned undamaged. If you are planning on bringing the cat to the shelter you will be placed on a trapping schedule. We have a limited ability to receive cats and need to accommodate as many people as possible. Please note- if you have your own trap call first before trapping so that we can reserve a space for you.

If you are planning on trapping, neutering and releasing please make sure that all residences and businesses that will be affected are in agreement that they want a feral cat colony in the area. You must also make a commitment to care for these animals by providing resources and retrapping should a cat become injured or ill.

11. What do I do about wildlife problems?

For nuisance wildlife call the Wildlife Services trapper at 533-6681.

For sick or injured wildlife call Animal Control at 694-2730.

For orphaned or injured juvenile or small animals call Rose Wolf Wildlife Rescue at 588-1335 or 484-1928. For birds and squirrels call Mother Lode Wildlife Care at 677-7249.

12. What do I do if my pet is lost?

Animal Control maintains a lost and found list. Be sure to file a lost or found report with our office. Photos of impounded animals are posted on PetHarbor.com. In addition to calling our office, post flyers in the area that the animal was lost. Call the local radio station (533-1450) so that the information can be posted on the pet patrol on MyMotherLode.com. Let as many people know by whatever means (Face book, Twitter, etc) as possible.

Make sure your pets are wearing identification (license tag, personal ID tag, microchip tag) and consider having a microchip implanted. All shelters in California scan for microchips.

13. How do I adopt a pet?

We have many wonderful dogs and cats available at Animal Control. We also get other critters such as rabbits, birds, reptiles, horses, goats, etc. Shelter hours for adoption are M-F 9:00-1:00 and Sat 10:00-1:00.

Prior to adoption we do conduct a background check to verify good pet ownership. We talk with your veterinarian, check our records, and make sure the landlord is on board if you rent.

If the animal you are adopting is not neutered there is a $40.00 spay/neuter deposit redeemable at the veterinarian’s office. If it is a dog greater than 4 months and it does not have a rabies vaccination there is a $10.00 rabies deposit. There are also applicable license fees and an adoption fee of $23.00.

14. What if I have to give up a pet?

Our shelter is for strays and seized animals. We do offer low cost euthanasia for animals with serious medical or behavioral problems. We are a last resort if you are trying to rehome a pet.

If you know you must give up a pet do not wait until the last minute. Contact the Humane Society of Tuolumne County (984-5489), Friends of the Animal Community (768-3630), or search for one of the many breed rescues available on line.

Make sure your pet is spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations and heartworm preventive. This will make them much more adoptable. Also be honest about any problems that the pet may have.

15. What do I do about a dead animal?

If the dead animal is on the highway call Cal Trans (984-4438 or 586-3851). If the dead animal is in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County call Animal Control. Requests for dead animal pickup will be handled when manpower and time permits. Dead runs will usually be done 1 to 3 times per week. Priority will be given to road hazards and dead animals in highly populated areas. Animal Control reserves the right to leave a carcass if it is in a remote area and likely to be consumed by scavenger animals. Animal Control will not pick up any carcasses that have had any substances, such as lime, put on them.

It is the duty of the owner of any animal that dies to dispose of the carcass within a reasonable time by cremation, burial, or other lawful means. Animal Control may be contracted to pick up the body for a fee if manpower and time permits.

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Archive

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1. When is the Archive open?

Regular office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 4:00PM.

2. Do I need to make an appointment?

It is highly recommended, so we can focus on your requests.

3. Where is the Archive located?

Behind the main county library on Greenley Road, please click on the Archive - Vicinity Map below.
Archive - Vicinity Map

4. Can the Archive create duplicate copies of the public records within its collections?

No, but researchers are allowed to use cameras or hand held scanners to make their own copies of the public records within its collections.

5. What kind of records does the Archive have?

Tuolumne County Records:
Assessor, Auditor, Board of Supervisors, Clerk, Great Registers, Oral History, Marriage, School District, Sheriff/Coroner/Jail, Treasurer/Tax Collector

Superior Court County of Tuolumne Records:
County Court, Court Sessions, Justice Court, Naturalization, Probate, Superior/ District Court

Private Collections:
De Ferrari/Hartvig Collection, Dwain McDonald Collection, Tuolumne County Newspaper Collection.

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Assessor

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1. Why has my assessed value increased by more than 2%?

A property that has been reassessed under Proposition 8 is reviewed annually to
determine its market value as of the lien date, January 1st. The assessed value of
a property having a Proposition 8 value may increase each lien date (January 1st)
by more than the standard two percent maximum allowed for properties assessed
under their Factored Base Year Value (Proposition 13); however, unless there is a
change in ownership or new construction, a property’s assessed value can never
increase above its Factored Base Year Value (Proposition 13). Explanation of Proposition 8

2. If I do not agree with the assessed value what should I do?

You should first contact the Assessor’s Office and ask for an explanation and an informal review of the value. If you do not agree with the results of the informal review you should then file an application for changed assessment with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors (Board of Equalization).

3. My assessment notice lists Taxable Value and Factored Base Year Value, what value are my upcoming taxes based on?

Your upcoming taxes will be based on the Taxable Value.

4. I plan to add another room on my home. Will you reappraise my entire property?

No. Only the value of your new addition will be added to your current assessed value.

5. I added a bedroom and did the work myself. Will I only be assessed on the cost of the materials?

No. New construction is assessed at the market value added to the property.

6. I just bought a house from my brother. Will I be assessed on the price I paid?

Not necessarily. Real property is valued at its current market value at the time it changes ownership. In a majority of cases, the sales price equals market value, but not always.

7. If I get married and add my spouse as Joint Tenant on the deed to my property, will my property be reappraised?

No. An interspousal transfer is not reappraised.

8. If I sell my boat after January 1st, am I responsible for the taxes for the next fiscal year?

Yes you are. The lien on ownership and the responsibility for the taxes is established on January 1st for the following tax year beginning July 1st.

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Behavioral Health

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1. How can I get help with mental health or alcohol and drug issues?

If you or the person you are helping is in crisis, call 209-533-7000, or toll free 800-630-1130; call 911 if it is a serious emergency.
For all other urgent or routine mental health or drug and alcohol issues, call (209)533-6245 to make an appointment or walk in to 105 Hospital Road, Sonora, Monday through Friday, 8am – 5 pm. After filling out essential paperwork, the person will receive an initial assessment to determine what sort of services are needed and available.

2. What happens when someone is in crisis or needs to be evaluated for hospitalization for mental health reasons?

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency should call the Behavioral Health crisis line 209-533-7000 or 1-800-630-1130 and speak with a crisis worker. The person in crisis may be asked to come to Behavioral Health for assessment, as many crisis situations can be deescalated or averted without the need for hospitalization. In some situations, people will be transported to or advised to go to the Sonora Regional Medical Center Emergency Room. There, an assessment will be done of the person’s physical and mental health and the presenting problem will be addressed.

If the person needs to be hospitalized for mental health reasons, they will be sent to an appropriate psychiatric facility somewhere in California, usually within a few hours from Tuolumne County, for a 72 hour hold (often called a “5150”). During this time, the person is evaluated by a psychiatrist and provided treatment if appropriate; case managers keep in contact with the facility during this time to develop an after-care plan for the person. Whether or not a person is hospitalized for their condition, follow-up resources and after care plans help to get the person to the care they need.

3. Can I get medications for my mental health issues prescribed and/or refilled at Behavioral Health?

If you are a current client, you may call the Medication Services Refills/Requests line 209-533-6227. Please allow 3 days for processing, and be sure to call before your medications run out.

If you are not a current client, we strongly encourage you to follow-up with your previous psychiatrist or physical health care doctor if possible. Psychiatric medications are prescribed through Behavioral Health, but the referral process may take a few weeks, especially for new clients just entering into services.

4. What kind of insurance does Behavioral Health accept?

For crisis events, anyone treated by Behavioral Health should complete financial paperwork to ensure insurances are billed and a sliding scale is applied to balances if applicable. For all other services, Behavioral Health is a designated Medi-Cal facility and accepts regular Medi-Cal insurance if the person’s needs meet medical necessity. Some services are available by private pay.

5. . Is there anywhere in Tuolumne County where a person can “check themselves in to the third floor,” or where they can be held for observation for the 72 hour “5150” hospitalization?

No, there is no local facility for inpatient psychiatric crisis treatment. Many years ago there was a unit within the County hospital, but it has been closed for some time. Currently all people being hospitalized for psychiatric reasons will be sent to facilities in neighboring counties.

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Body Art

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1. Would a person applying permanent cosmetics in a medical spa, doctors’ office, surgery center or similar, be required to be a registered practitioner or have a body art facility permit?

No, the California Health &Safety Code Section 119304 addresses not restricting the activities of physicians and surgeons. It is not the intent of the Safe Body Art Act to require sites (e.g., doctor’ offices, surgery centers) where permanent cosmetics are applied under a physician’s or surgeon’s direction to obtain a body art facility permit. It is also not the intent of the Safe Body Art Act to require a practitioner to retain a body art registration if that practitioner only operates under the direction of a physician or surgeon.

If a practitioner intends to provide any permanent cosmetic services outside of those directed by a physician or surgeon, then they will need to have a practitioner registration and the site will need a body art facility permit.

2. What kind of experience is required to meet the 6 months of related experience for a practitioner registration in Health &Safety Code Section 119306 (b)(5)?

Since no guidelines or statute exists to define a body art training program, it is recommended that this provision is not used for registration of a practitioner.

3. Are there any conditions where a practitioner would not have to get a practitioner registration?

Any individual who is going to perform body art on a person must be a registered practitioner, even if no money is exchanged or the body art occurs as part of a training course. The only exception is for a practitioner who only provides procedures at sites under the control and direction of a physician or surgeon.

4. Does a Practitioner have to show that they can comply with Health &Safety Code Sections 119306-119311 to gain or maintain their registration?

No, only Health &Safety Code Sections 119306 and 119307 are required for a practitioner to gain or maintain their registration. Health &Safety Code Sections 119308-119311 are operational requirements that can be applied to the practitioner or the facility during the course of an inspection.

5. Can a Registered Practitioner provide Body Art from a non-permitted location?

No, a body art practitioner cannot work from a non-permitted site. It is the intent of the Act to require that registered practitioners operate from permitted Body Art Facilities.

6. Can we accept Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Training (commonly referred to as BBP) certificates from another state or from outside the United States for temporary events?

That is at the discretion of the local jurisdiction. The person with the training certificate would have to provide proof that shows that the course meets all the requirements as noted in California Health and Safety Code (H&SC) Section 119307. If it cannot be provided or be read by staff (in a foreign language), then the individuals should be required to take a California specific BBP course from an LEA approved trainer.

7. Who is required to take the Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control training?

Any person who will be performing body art on a person is required to take and maintain a Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control training certificate. This includes students working in a classroom setting, if they are working on a live person. This would also include individuals working in the decontamination and sterilization room, as they may be exposed to instruments with human fluids or tissue on it.

8. Is an Infection Prevention Control Plan (IPCP) the same as an Exposure Control and Prevention Plan (ECP)?

No, an IPCP is not the same as an ECP. The Infection Prevention and Control Plan, as listed in H&SC Section 119313, requires a body art facility to spell out processes and standard operating procedures that allow the facility to comply with the Safe Body Art Act such as cleaning and sterilizing, set-up and tear down of procedure areas and ways to keep instruments and procedure areas from being contaminated. An Exposure Control Plan, which is required by OSHA, requires, among other things, an operator to list all positions that may have exposure, how they will be trained to minimize exposure, who is responsible for the site and how to report and handle an incident of exposure to Blood or other potentially infectious materials.

9. How can a Body Art Facility comply with the requirement to keep records/logs of pre-sterilized & pre-packed instruments set forth in Health &Safety Code Section 119315(f)?

The intent of the section is to provide a route to trace back equipment if any complaints or problems implicate the pre-packaged, pre-sterilized instruments. A facility should always maintain records of purchases for these goods and lot numbers or other identifiers that single out a particular package or shipment. A facility can keep a separate master log documenting each piece of equipment used, the client’s name and the date of use. It would also be acceptable to have an area on the client’s consent form that allows the practitioner to list each pre-packaged, pre-sterilized instrument used during a procedure, which would include a box or lot number or other reference to identify the material source.

10. How do I confirm that pre-sterilized instruments are acceptable if there is no label or indicator on the individual packaging?

If the pre-sterilized instruments are not individually labeled to show sterility or have any marking that would indicate when the sterility is no longer valid, it is the operator’s responsibility to either keep the instruments in a box that has the details of the sterility and use by date or to provide some type of documentation that shows the items are sterile. If the box does not have that information or the documentation does not show that information, then the operator should change suppliers to one that provides that information.

11. Does Health &Safety Code Section 119303 (c) contradict HIPAA laws by requiring the Body Art Facility to shred confidential medical information after two years?

A Body Art Facility is not technically a medical facility so it is not clear whether HIPAA applies, but the two year timeframe is too restrictive for a variety of reasons and it is recommended that this provision not be applied as part of the inspection. This provision is on a list of items to be removed from the code in the next legislative session.

12. Does the Safe Body Art Act or applicable guidance address the proper use of ultrasonic cleaners, sterilizers or other equipment (e.g. covers over ultrasonic cleaners, equipment operating timeframes)?

Proper usage of sterilizers is addressed in Health &Safety Code Section 119315 (b) which states the sterilizer shall be loaded, operated, decontaminated and maintained according to manufacturer’s directions. Although no such language exists to address mechanical cleaning systems, such as ultrasonic cleaners, it is the intent of the Safe Body Art Act that they are also operated and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

13. In Health &Safety Code section 119315 (b) (3), is the inclusion of the term Class V integrators too restrictive to allow for the new technologies that may become available in the future?

The Class 5 integrators requirement derives from ANSI/AAMI standards for autoclave testing. The Safe Body Art Act states the Class V Integrator is the minimum standard. Other testing methods can be proposed but they must at least meet the standards set for the Class V integrators.

14. Is there language in the Safe Body Art Act that restricts or allows for different types of autoclaves?

Yes, Health &Safety Code Section 119315 (b) (1) requires all sterilization equipment used be manufactured for sterilization of medical equipment. Health &Safety Code Section 119309 (e) requires all instruments to be steam sterilized. This section does not allow for the use of chemical sterilizers. Statim machines, that use steam and a cartridge system but not peel packs, may be used to sterilize instruments or jewelry for immediate use as long as a Class V integrator or better is used with each sterilization run.

15. What is the difference between sharps waste and non-sharps waste?

Sharps waste includes any disposable instruments or disposable parts of an instrument that has acute rigid corners, edges, or protuberances capable of cutting or piercing. (e.g., tattoo needles, razors used to prepare skin)

16. Can sharps waste be moved offsite for disposal at locations like a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Site?

No, Health &Safety Code Section 119314 (e) (3) (A) clearly states that sharps waste must be removed from a site by a disposal company or through an approved mail-back system.

17. Does Health &Safety Code Section 119314 (f) exclude service animals from a Body Art Facility?

Service Animals were not addressed in the Safe Body Art Act, but it is not the intent of the act to circumvent ADA requirements so service animals should be allowed as defined by ADA. This oversight will be addressed in the next legislative session.

18. How can I confirm what practitioner did a procedure or worked with a client?

here is no clear connection with a practitioner and a procedure in the Safe Body Art Act but it would be advisable to ask the Body Art Facility to put the practitioner name on the client consent form.

19. What should an operator do if a client indicates that they have one or more of the conditions spelled out in Health &Safety Code Section 119303 (b)?

No clear path is provided in the Safe Body Art Act. The following guidance is based on consultation with Body Art Industry representatives who have worked on the Safe Body Art Act. A pregnant individual should postpone the procedure until after they are no longer pregnant. If a client gives a positive response to any of the conditions in Section 119303 (b) (2), (b) (3) or (b) (4), then that individual should be asked to provide a doctor’s note outlining that they are fit or that it is safe to provide them with the procedure. These responses are in no way required by the practitioner but the intent of the consent questions was to enlighten the practitioner so they could make an informed decision before potentially providing a risky procedure, both for them and the client.

20. Is there a grandfathering clause in the Safe Body Art Act?

No, there is no grandfathering language in the Act but it was not the intention to require that all facilities in business prior to July 1, 2012 immediately retrofit their facilities to meet the Act’s provision if they can show that they can operate in substantial conformance with the Act.

21. Is the 4 hour or 4 procedure trigger for temporary event handwash station turn-over feasible?

Although Section 119317 (f) of the Health and Safety Code is very clear in its direction for when a handwash sink set-up must be emptied and refilled, the time and procedure limits may not be realistic based on the type of operations at the event. It is more advisable to use a best practice stance on the handwashing stations used at temporary events and to focus on proper use and maintenance of the handwash station then to try and hold practitioners to a strict hours or procedures schedule.

22. Why are temporary events required to have eyewash stations available when a fixed facility does not?

No, this was an oversight in the creation of the Safe Body Art Act and it will be removed in the next legislative session. It was not the intent of the Act to require an eyewash station at temporary events

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CalFresh

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1. How long does it take to process my CalFresh application?

The County Welfare Department has 30 calendar days following the date the application was filed.
(CalFresh 63-301.1)

2. I lost my EBT card. How can I get a replacement?

Call 1-800-328-9677

3. I turned in my SAR-7 late, how long do I have to wait for my benefits to be reactivated?

10 working days

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CalWORKs

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1. I lost my EBT card. How can I get a replacement?

Call 1-800-328-9677

2. I turned in my SAR-7 late, how long do I have to wait for my benefits to be reactivated?

10 working days

3. How long does it take to process my CalWORKs application?

The County Welfare Department has 45 calendar days from the date of your submitted application.

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Child Support Services - Accounting

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1. How is a payment distributed?

All payments except federal tax intercepts are first applied to any current month obligation, then to interest, and last to arrears. If the custodial parent received public assistance, he/she will receive $50 and the rest will be applied for reimbursement to the county.

If the custodial parent does not receive public assistance, and never did, he/she will receive all of the payment for current support and arrears. If the custodial parent used to be on public assistance, he/she may not receive all of any payment received for arrears.

2. How long before you stop and re-issue a check?

If you have lost a check or have not received a check 14 days after it was issued, contact our office and we will send you the appropriate forms to complete. When we receive the completed form we will request a stop payment order be placed on the check. A new check will then be issued. The entire process can take up to three weeks.

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Child Support Services - Employers

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1. What should we do if Franchise Tax Board (FTB) and County Child Support are sending a garnishment order for the same case?

Withhold current child support per notice to withhold and send to the local child support agency (LCSA), send arrears withholding to FTB, and notify the LCSA that two orders exist.

2. If the employee is paid two times per month and the medical insurance premium cannot be covered with the first check only, how do we maintain the policy?

If you can work something out with the employee where the medical is all withheld at once and then the child support is sent in with the next withholding, that could work as long as the child support is being sent monthly when it is due.

3. Can we, as the employer, cover the employee and children through Medi-Cal or Healthy Families?

No, as both of the above are government / tax payer subsidized programs, ultimately they are a form of public assistance. One of the goals of the child support program is to reduce dependency on public assistance programs.

4. What is an acceptable amount for employee medical coverage?

Depending on what your plans cost through your company, the medical coverage premium could vary. There is no specified amount the employee must spend on coverage.

5. If support payments are being made voluntarily, must they still be set up and collected via a local child support agency (LCSA)?

If aid is not expended on the children and a case is not open with a local child support agency (LCSA), then there is no need for us to be involved and the employee can continue to pay their support voluntarily. Once an LCSA is involved, the law requires the employee to pay via wage assignment through the LCSA.

6. If the child has turned 18 can we, the employer, discontinue withholding?

No. Changes are not to be made unless the local child support agency (LCSA) contacts you with further instructions. The age when child support ends varies and all court orders are unique. If you have any questions regarding the notice to withhold, please contact the LCSA.

7. How should we, the employer, proceed on a garnishment where the social security number matches a current employee, but the name is different?

Call the local child support agency (LCSA) to determine what your next step should be. Please do not send the notice back if there is a possibility that the individual is employed with you. If, however, the notice is from Franchise Tax Board (FTB), send it back to the FTB marked no record as their information is processed differently from the LCSA.

8. What if I have withheld incorrectly all along?

You can’t make it up. Contact the local child support agency (LCSA) and your employee, and then commence withholding at the proper amount and send the withholding to the LCSA.

9. What if the employee isn't guaranteed week to week employment?

Withhold at 50% of each paycheck until the wage assignment obligation is met.

10. What do we do with the medical identification cards?

Send the identification cards, along with information identifying the noncustodial parent to our office and we will forward them to the custodial parent.

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Child Support Services - Enforcement

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1. A child support order exists and an account is open, so where is my money?

We will mail you a payment within two business days from the day we receive the payment. To collect a child support obligation, we need to know where the non-custodial parent is working. We will then serve a wage assignment so that the obligation is automatically deducted from his or her wages.

If you know where the non-custodial parent is working, please inform us via mail or phone, and we will serve a wage assignment.

2. How do I get my child support modified?

We will review your court order for modification only if:

• The order has not been reviewed by this office within the last 12 months and;
• The basis for any decrease is anticipated to last more than six months

If you believe your case meets these requirements and would like to start the review process, please telephone or come to our office to submit your request to start the modification review process.

Warning: This review may result in either an increase or decrease in your support amount depending on the circumstances of both parents. Once you have returned the application for review, the process will not be terminated regardless of whether your order will be increased or decreased. In other words, as the payor, you may expect your obligation to decrease but when the guidelines are calculated and support actually increases, we will proceed with the increase.

You may also seek a modification on your own behalf pursuant to California Family Code Section 3651.

3. Your county has started collecting from my job by wage assignment, and now Franchise Tax Board (FTB) has served an earnings withholding order at 50%. Can I get this reduced?

Yes, if appropriate. We will confirm that your employer is deducting the child support from your paycheck according to the court order on your case(s) and then the FTB 50% deduction can be reviewed for possible reduction or withdrawal.

FTB does, however, request that their order stay in place for two months. After two months, we can review to reduce or lift their assignment as long as the county and/or private order(s) are being honored by your employer.

Note: If you have multiple cases in this county or cases in more than one county, the transaction may be more complex. Please advise how many biological children you are currently paying for, their ages, where you pay, and monthly amounts when you contact our office.

4. I am paying for the same child(ren) in another county, and am paying your office by wage assignment. The other county has served a FTB collection at 50%. I cannot afford this. What should I do?

We will review your account and tell you the exact period of time we charged for support paid in our county. Please tell us your account number(s) in the other counties, whether you are paying current support, and if possible, the months charged by the other counties.

Once you have the breakdown of charges in each county, you can advise the other county that you are paying here to see if they will request a reduction in the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) collection. Please be advised that only the county who submitted you to FTB collection is eligible to withdraw your case from that program.

5. I just received a Demand for Payment letter from the Franchise Tax Board asking me to pay off my entire balance within 10 days; will they take my car and/or house, etc, if I cannot pay my balance off?

You should contact our office immediately to work out a monthly payment plan and we will contact the Franchise Tax Board to hold off on any additional enforcement actions, if the circumstances are appropriate.

6. My bank account is frozen; how do I get it reinstated?

Please inform this office where you are currently working so that we can serve your employer with a wage assignment. When you begin to pay each month, we will review your account for release. If you can bring in or fax bank statements and W2's with current income information, we will review your case to reduce or release the hold, if appropriate.

7. I just got a notice that my driving or professional license will be revoked. How do I stop the process?

Prior to contacting us, please verify that the Tuolumne County Department of Child Support Services placed the hold on your license. This information is noted on the letter from the licensing agency. We cannot release another county's hold on your license.

Once you've verified that it is Tuolumne County holding your license, please complete and submit to us the State Licensing Match System (SLMS) Request for Review form and provide us with the license type and number, your current address, phone number, and employer or source of income.

We will review your case and if it meets with our release criteria (i.e. you are paying regularly by wage assignment), we will send a license release form to the licensing agency or the department of motor vehicles (DMV). You will also receive a copy in the mail. You can obtain a request for review form from the licensing agency. Once the release form is sent to the DMV, it may take them one to two weeks before it is cleared.

8. I just discontinued from CalWORKs, how do I get child support?

Contact our office and we will change the account so that you receive the current support.

9. I know a payment was recently mailed out to me, but I haven't received it yet. What is the procedure for tracking the checks?

If you have not received the check 14 days after it was issued, contact our office and we will send you the appropriate forms to complete. When we receive the forms back from you, a stop payment order will be placed on the check. A new check will then be issued. The entire process may take as long as three weeks.

10. I am the custodial party. How do I close my case?

You can notify us in writing, or by calling or visiting our office. We will then close your portion of the case. If the child(ren) ever received CalWORKs benefits, we will continue to collect the child support owed only for that time period. If the child(ren) never received CalWORKs benefits, we will close the case and send you and the non-custodial parent a closing letter.

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Child Support Services - Legal

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1. I just received a summons and complaint; what does this mean?

State and federal laws require us to legally establish paternity, child support, and a health insurance coverage assignment for the child(ren) listed on the complaint. You must respond by filing an answer with the Tuolumne County Clerk's office within 30 days of service. The county clerk's office charges a fee of $236.

You must discuss your eligibility for a fee waiver with a representative of their office. If you do not file an answer, a default judgment will be filed based upon the proposed judgment included in your summons and complaint packet.

2. I do not think I am the father of the child(ren) listed on the complaint. What do I do?

If you do not believe you are the father of this child, you must file an answer (included in the packet) with the Tuolumne County Clerk's office. The county clerk's office charges a fee of $236. You may discuss your eligibility for a fee waiver with a representative of their office. Once your answer is filed, a court date and genetic test appointments will be scheduled to determine if you are the father or not.

3. I disagree with the child support amount, or one of the terms, set in the proposed judgment. What do I do?

You must file an answer with the Tuolumne County Clerk's office. A court date will then be set and the issues resolved at the court hearing.

4. How did you arrive at this child support amount?

The child support amount is based upon the information you provide to us prior to the filing of the summons and complaint (i.e. health insurance coverage costs, union dues, etc.), and the information in the case. This includes the information we receive from the Employment Development Department regarding your work history and the amount of child support for other children you may have for whom you pay child support.

This information is input into a state approved computer program which indicates the income and deductions given to arrive at the amount of child support. A copy of the computer calculations is attached to the summons and complaint.

5. I have been called to active duty. What do I do?

As a result of September 11, 2001, legislation was passed allowing custodial and non-custodial parents to request a review of their current child support obligation and interest charged on the unpaid balance if they were called to active duty. If you believe your case is eligible for review, please contact our office at 1-866-901-3212.

At that time we will review your case to determine if your monthly child support will decrease as a result of a drop in your income due to active service, or if a modification to the interest charged on the unpaid balance is appropriate.

For a change in the child support order or a lower interest rate on past due support, you will need to provide documentation of active duty status and the date when active duty began. Please state your reason for modification request as the Servicepersons Civil Relief Act to help us expedite your request.

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Child Support Services - Locate

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1. How do you locate the non-custodial party?

This office has several resources to locate the non-custodial party. We use the following locate sources to find addresses and employment information:

• Employment Development Department (EDD)
• IRS / FTB
• Credit reporting agencies
• DMV
• Local and state criminal records
• The California and Federal Parent Locator Service (CPLS and FPLS)

2. What locate information are you looking for?

We are looking for the non-custodial parent's:

• Home and work addresses
• Employer
• Date of birth
• Social security number
• Assets
• If he or she has other children to legally support

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Child Support Services - Opening a Case

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1. Who is eligible for your services?

Any custodial or non-custodial parent may open a case in our office. If you are currently receiving benefits from CalWORKs or Medi-Cal, Department of Social Services (DSS) must refer your case to us and a case will be opened on your behalf.

2. How do I apply for your services if I am not receiving CalWorks or Medi-Cal?

You can contact our office at 1-866-901-3212 to schedule an appointment and request an application be mailed to you. You can also download an application, or submit a request to have an application mailed to you from the Customer Connect self-service website.

3. What is the cost of your services?

Our services are free.

4. What documentation or information will I need to open the case?

The most important piece of information is the non-custodial parent's social security number; it is key to accessing locate sources. Also important is information regarding the non-custodial parent's:

• Employment
• Home and work addresses
• Date of birth
• Any prior court order information
• if you're not receiving CalWORKs, a copy of your pay stub

The more information you supply in your application, the quicker we will be able to help.

5. How long will it take to open a case?

Within 20 days of receipt of a completed application or welfare referral we will open a case. We will start verifying information received, such as addresses and employment information, and mail a case opening letter to the custodial and non-custodial parent.

6. Will you open a case for spousal support only?

We only collect spousal support obligations when child support is also ordered in the court order.

7. My children and I are receiving CalWORKs benefits, but I did not apply for your services. Why was a case opened?

If you are receiving CalWORKs benefits, state and federal laws require recipients to participate in the child support program. The Department of Social Services office must send us a referral to notify us to open a case to establish paternity and child support for the child(ren) receiving the benefits.

When you are approved for these benefits, your rights to child support are assigned to the county for the time period you are on aid. The Department of Child Support Services is charged with the duties to establish and enforce a paternity, child support, and a health insurance coverage assignment order in order to reimburse the money paid to you.

8. The non-custodial parent and I already have an agreement regarding child support. Why are you pursuing him/her?

This office must legally establish paternity and child support in a court order for children receiving welfare benefits. An agreement, even a notarized agreement, is not an enforceable court order, which is what we are required to pursue.

9. If I discontinue from CalWORKs, will you close your case?

We will continue to collect child support on your behalf unless you request in writing that we close the non-welfare portion of your case. Even if we do close your non-welfare portion of the case, we will continue to pursue for the child support owed for the time period you were receiving CalWORKs benefits.

10. How long before I start receiving child support payments?

It varies from case to case depending on the information provided and the cooperation from the non-custodial parent.

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Child Support Services - Out of State

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1. Can you collect child support obligations when the non-custodial parent lives in another state?

Yes. We can request the other state obtain and enforce a child support order, or depending on certain facts, we can obtain and enforce the order in California.

2. Can you collect child support obligations when the non-custodial parent lives in another country?

If the United States has a reciprocal agreement with the other country, we will contact them to obtain and/or enforce a child support order. If not, we have no jurisdiction to enforce and will have to review the case for closure.

3. Why does it take so long for my case to proceed?

Once we have determined that an out-of-state referral is necessary, a request is sent from our office to the other jurisdiction. The other jurisdiction has 90 days from the date we sent the referral to open the case.

The only contact we can make with the other jurisdiction during that time period is to request an acknowledgement letter after 30 to 45 days. After 90 days, we can send requests to the other jurisdiction asking for the case status of your case.

4. What is Registration of Foreign Order and why is it necessary?

We must register another county or state's order to make it an enforceable Tuolumne County order. With an enforceable order, we can serve wage assignments and national medical support notices, submit balances for IRS, FTB, unemployment and disability intercepts, and many other enforcement tools to enforce the order. Without the registration process, we have no legal means of enforcing the order.

5. Why does my order have to be registered out of state?

Once we have exhausted all enforcement measures available to use in California, we will request the other state enforce an order on our/your behalf. In order to enforce our California order in another state, the other state must first register the California order to make it an enforceable order in their state.

This allows them to use various enforcement tools such as service of wage assignments and national medical support notices, liens on assets, and interception of unemployment or disability benefits.

6. Why can't Tuolumne County enforce my child support order?

Prior to requesting the assistance of another state, we review every case to determine if California has jurisdiction to either establish or enforce a child support order. If we determine that California has no jurisdiction, we send a request to the other state asking them to establish and/or enforce a child support order as we do not have the jurisdiction legally necessary to establish and/or enforce a child support order in the case. Jurisdiction is determined pursuant to federal and state laws and regulations.

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Child Welfare Services

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1. Does Child Welfare Services intervene in situations involving custody disputes?

No. Child Welfare Services only intervenes in cases of suspected child abuse and neglect. Families are instructed to contact the Tuolumne County Family Court at 209-533-6936 for child custody related matters.

2. What is the legal age at which a child can be left home alone?

There is no legally defined age for a child to remain home alone. Parents are encouraged to use good judgment when making this decision, and to consider the child's developmental and cognitive abilities when deciding if their child can be safe home alone. Families choosing to leave their children home alone should ensure their children know what steps to take in the event of an emergency.

3. Is there a limit to how many children can sleep in one bedroom?

As long as children are provided a safe environment to sleep, there is no limit on how many individuals can share a bedroom. There are limits and different standards for Foster Family Homes.

4. Can I review my Child Welfare Services records?

Yes. If you would like to review your referral/case records, please call Child Welfare Services at 209-533-5717. An appointment date and time will be scheduled for you to come to the office and review your records.

5. Does Child Welfare Services have Social Workers available after hours or on the weekends?

Child Welfare Services has staff available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to emergencies and take reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. You may access these services by calling 209-533-HELP.

6. Can I make a report to Child Welfare Services and remain anonymous?

If you are a mandated reporter, you may not remain anonymous. If you are unsure if you are a mandated reporter, you can review section 11165.7 of the Penal Code for a complete listing. If you are still unsure, you may contact the Child Welfare Services office and seek clarification. If you are calling as a non-mandated reporter, your report can be made anonymous.

7. Am I entitled to feedback on an investigation if I called in the report?

If you made the report as a mandated report, you are entitled to limited feedback. The law prohibits Child Welfare Services from providing any non-mandated reporter with any feedback.

8. Does Child Welfare Services accept volunteers and/or donations?

Yes. If you are interested in volunteering your time or would like to make a donation, please call the Child Welfare Services main office at 209-533-5717, and ask to speak to a Supervisor.

9. What if I have other questions?

Child Welfare Services staff is always available to answer your questions. Please feel free to call our main office at 209-533-5717 and we will do our best to answer your questions.

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Clinical Services

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1. What clinical services are available? How do I make a clinic appointment?

The family planning program offers gynecological and reproductive health screening for income eligible women of all ages. Services offered include pregnancy testing, family planning and birth control for minimal or no cost. Also, sexually transmitted disease testing and confidential HIV testing to anyone 12 years of age or older is available. Services provided by Board Certified Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant. Medi-Cal and private pay clients gladly accepted. Call 533-7401 for appointment or information.

2. What immunizations are available and how do I access the service?

Childhood and limited adult immunizations as well as tuberculosis skin testing are available on a walk-in basis on Tuesdays from 1-4 pm. Children who have Medi-Cal , children with no insurance and children whose insurance does not cover vaccinations are eligible for low or no cost vaccinations through a federal program. Adult vaccines available include; Flu, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis). Medi-Cal and/or private pay accepted. For more information call 533-7401.

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Code Compliance

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1. Can you tell me who complained about my property?

The Board of Supervisors has deemed all our cases to be confidential and we may not disclose that information.

2. What do I need to do to file a complaint?

A complaint can be filed with the Community Development Department orally or in writing. We require a physical address and a short description of the alleged violation.

3. Do I have to give my name if I want to complain about someone in violation?

No. We take anonymous complaints and are careful to safeguard all information pertaining to the case.

4. How long can a person use a recreational vehicle for human occupancy?

A recreational vehicle may not be used for human occupancy for more than 14 days in a calendar year. However, with approval from the Building and Safety Division, one may reside in a recreational vehicle while they have an active permit for the new construction of a residence or business.

5. Why are you singling me out when you can drive down the street and find 10 others who are in violation?

As directed by the County Ordinance Code, for planning-related violations, CDD is reactive not proactive. We do not take action until we receive a complaint. Once a complaint is received then we proceed in working with the property owner to mitigate the violation. For building-related violations the CDD is proactive and will initiate enforcement action without a complaint to ensure that life safety concerns are addressed.

6. What are the penalties for doing work without a permit or for failing to correct a zoning violation?

The penalties for failing to get a permit for building/remodeling projects range from $100 deposit against 50% permit fee for smaller projects and go up to $1,000 deposit against four times the permit fee for larger projects. For failure to correct a zoning violation, penalties start at $100 and go up to $1,000 if not corrected.

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County Counsel

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1. Can County Counsel give me legal advice?

The Office of the County Counsel provides legal advice to the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors, County Departments, agencies and certain commissions, committees and special districts. We cannot provide legal advice or answer legal questions for the general public.

2. How do I contact the Tuolumne County Superior Court?

The main line for the Civil Division is (209) 533-5555, Criminal Division is (209) 533-5563, and the Self-Help Center is (209) 533-6565.

3. I can't afford a lawyer, can you help or does Tuolumne County have Legal Aid?

No. However, the Tuolumne County Superior Court has a Self-Help Center which provides information for individuals who are looking for information or are representing themselves. You can reach the Self-Help Center at (209) 533-6565.

4. Where is the Law Library?

The Tuolumne County Law Library is located inside the historic courthouse at 41 West Yaney Avenue, Sonora.

5. How do I request a public record?

You may submit a written or oral request for a public record to the County department/entity from which you wish to receive a response. Alternatively, you may submit your request to us. When submitting your request, please include your contact information so we may timely respond.

6. Where can I get legal forms?

The Judicial Council has forms available to the public at no charge. The Tuolumne County Superior Court also has forms available for a minimal fee.

7. How do I file a claim against the County?

You may either contact our office by phone and request a Claim for Personal Injuries or a Claim for Property Damage (or both) be mailed to you or you can download the forms by clicking on the above link(s). When you submit your claim, please provide any and all back up documentation you have regarding the alleged damages/injuries (police reports, estimates for repair, photographs of damage, etc.). Our office has forty-five (45) days in which to respond to your claim, once it is received by our office.

8. The County is suing me for money it says I owe. Who can I talk to about this?

Collections lawsuits are filed by the Office of the County Counsel, but you should first contact Tuolumne County Revenue Recovery at (209) 533-5920. If your question is not answered at Revenue Recovery, please contact our office at (209) 533-5517.

9. Where is County Counsel's office located?

We are located on the 4th floor of the Tuolumne County Administration Building, at 2 South Green Street, Sonora.

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County Surveyor

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1. I need a survey; can the County survey my property?

No. You will need to hire a private licensed Land Surveyor.

2. How can I locate a Land Surveyor?

You may refer to the Yellow Pages of the phone book or log on to the CA State Board of Registration. CA Board of Registration

3. How much does it cost to have my land surveyed?

Land surveys vary in cost. The size and location of the lot along with the type of terrain and vegetation are some of the factors that will affect the cost of the survey. Most licensed surveyors will provide an estimate for the survey.

4. Does a land surveyor have the Right of Entry to my private property without my permission?

Yes, while performing a survey as provided for in Section 846.5 of the Civil Code, Section 8774 of the Business & Professions Code and Section 602.8 of the Penal Code. Notice to the landowner shall be given where practicable.

5. How can I get a copy of a map?

Copies of maps such as Subdivisions, Parcel Maps and Records of Survey along with other survey documents may be purchased at the County Surveyor’s Office.

6. Can I get copies of maps on line?

No, maps are not available on line at this time.

7. My property has two Assessor Parcel Numbers; can I sell one?

Perhaps not; the County Assessor assigns multiple Parcel Numbers for various reasons, and it may not mean that you have more than one legal parcel. You may contact the County Assessor’s Office at (209) 533-5535 or the County Surveyor’s Office at (209) 533-5626 for assistance.

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District Attorney

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1. Can I report a crime to the District Attorney's Office?

In most cases, a crime must be reported to the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the city or county where the crime occurred. However, there are exceptions, for example, real estate and consumer fraud.

2. I am the victim of a crime and I want to drop charges. Can I do this?

Crimes are charged by the District Attorney’s Office on behalf of the People of the State of California, not on behalf of any particular victim. The decision to file or to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by an attorney in the District Attorney’s Office. A victim’s wishes will be considered, but the final determination as to whether or not charges will be filed or dismissed rests with the D.A.’s Office.

3. I was the victim of a violent crime and need assistance with paying medical, funeral, mental health, income or other related losses. Where can I get this assistance?

Contact the VICTIM/WITNESS Assistance Program of the District Attorney’s Office. Victim advocates can provide information about the California State Victim Compensation Program and information about other services. (Click on the VICTIM/WITNESS link)

4. I have to testify in court and it is making me very anxious. I am concerned about not knowing what to expect. Who can I talk to about my concerns?

Contact the VICTIM/WITNESS Assistance Program of the District Attorney’s Office. A victim/witness advocate can explain the process and address your concerns.

5. How can I file a complaint involving another law enforcement agency?

Complaints against a law enforcement agency should be directed to the particular agency which is the subject of the complaint.

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Election Information

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1. What is a provisional ballot?

A provisional ballot is a regular ballot that is put inside of a provisional envelope. The voter fills out name and current address on the envelope and signs it. After the polls close, the ballot is returned to the election office, where the information on the envelope is verified against the voter registration records.


If the information that the voter has written on the envelope matches the information on the voter registration record, the ballot is removed from the envelope and counted just like any other ballot.

2. Who must vote a provisional ballot?

The following voters will be asked to put their ballot inside of a provisional envelope; Voters who have moved into a new precinct and have not updated their registration to the new address; Voters whose names are not on the roster where they go to vote; Voters who have registered by mail, but did not provide a CA .driver’s license number, or CA ID number when they registered; Voters who return their absentee ballots to the polls without an envelope; Voters who have applied to vote by mail, but do not have their ballot to turn in when they go to the polls; Voters who register too late for their names to be printed on the roster. Too late is 29 days before the election.

3. What if I go to the wrong polling place and have to vote a provisional ballot? Will my ballot still be counted?

All of the contests and measures for which you are eligible to vote had you gone to your correct polling place will be counted. Contests and measures for which you are not eligible to vote will not be counted.

4. I have heard that provisional ballots are not counted. Is this true?

This is not true. If a voter is qualified to vote and votes provisionally, his/her ballot will be counted.

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Emergency Medical Services

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1. What does the Tuolumne County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agency do?

A local EMS agency is responsible for the certification of emergency medical technicians (EMTs), first responders (FRs), the authorizing of mobile intensive care nurses (MICNs), and the local accreditation of paramedics and flight nurses. The local ambulance services, both ground and air ambulances, must be permitted by the EMS agency. The EMS agency must also organize the EMS system, maintain treatment guidelines and policies, and investigate complaints and unusual occurrences. Disaster response planning and mutual aid for medical assets are also the responsibility of the EMS agency. The EMS agency must annually submit an EMS Plan to the California EMS authority. This plan outlines the current capabilities of the EMS system, areas that need improvement, and how those improvements are to be made.

2. How can I become an EMT?

You must successfully complete an EMT training course that uses Department of Transportation (DOT) approved curriculum., and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMTs) examinations. Upon successful completion of these requirements, you may apply for certification at the local EMS Agency. You must have proof of current CPR/AED training, pay the established fees, and submit your fingerprints for a Department of Justice (DOJ) Livescan criminal history check.

3. How do I recertify as an EMT?

You must possess a current EMT-I certification issued in California, and obtain at least twenty-four hours of continuing education from an approved EMS continuing education provider or successfully complete a twenty-four hour EMT-I refresher course from an approved EMT-I training program. (If your certification has lapsed for more than six months, additional continuing education will be required) You must complete an application and an affidavit stating that the applicant is not precluded from certification as an EMT-I and complete a Livescan criminal background check the State of California Department of Justice. (This requirement does not apply for applicants with a current and valid EMT-I certification issued by the Tuolumne County EMS Agency.) and pay the certification fee established by the Board of Supervisors. You must also submit a copy of a current State of California Driver's License, Identification Card or Military Identification Card, and submit a completed skills competency verification form, EMSA-SCV (07/03).

4. How can I become a first responder?

You must successfully complete a first responder training course that uses Department of Transportation (DOT) approved curriculum and then pass the certification examination. Upon successful completion of these requirements, you may apply for certification at the local EMS Agency. You must have proof of current CPR/AED training, and you must be affiliated with a recognized Tuolumne County First Responder Agency to be certified.

5. How do I recertify as a first responder?

You must possess a current first responder certification issued in California, and obtain at least twelve hours of continuing education from an approved EMS continuing education provider. You must complete an application and an affidavit stating that the applicant is not precluded from certification as a first responder, and submit a copy of a current State of California Driver's License, Identification Card, or Military Identification Card. You must also submit a completed skills competency verification form, EMSA-SCV (July 3).

6. When do I turn in my application for recertification?

Approximately one month prior to the expiration of your certification.

7. Can I be certified as an EMT or first responder if I have a criminal offense on my record?

Maybe. Some offenses will preclude you from certification. You may be certified at the discretion of the EMS medical director. The EMS medical director may certify you on a probationary status or place additional requirements upon you for certification.

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Employee Self Service

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1. Is it safe to put in my Social Security number on the registration site?

Yes. The site is protected with secure internet protocols.

2. Can I check my Payroll Advice from home?

Yes. You can access your Payroll advice from your home computer, tablet or enabled cell phone devices.

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Engineering

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1. How can I get on the notification list for upcoming projects?

You can sign up to receive email or text alerts on the Notify Me webpage.

For the general public we suggest subscribing to Notify Me News Flash: Engineering to stay up to date on the latest reports and press releases about Tuolumne County's roads. Additionally, these updates can be found on the bottom of the Engineering-Capital Improvement Projects webpage.

For contractors and potential bidders we suggest subscribing to Notify Me Bid Postings: Roads and Engineering to be alerted when the county has released a Request for Proposals. You can view projects that are currently accepting proposals on the Bid Posting webpage.

2. How do you choose which bridges to repair?

Caltrans inspects all County bridges every two years. Staff evaluates the reports and either performs the work recommendations or propose a listing to the Board of Supervisors for ones in need of rehabilitating or replacing. The Board of Supervisors approves the project in order for staff to proceed with the allocation of funds and eventually becomes a capital project for the County.

3. There’s a pothole in front of my house. Can’t the County just repave my road?

You can report the pothole by calling 209-533-5633 during CRA business hours or via the Citizen Request Tracker. If you live along a County maintained road, we will send a crew to repair the pothole. County Service Area roads will be referred to Special Districts Administration to be addressed. Residents of privately maintained roads are responsible for their own road maintenance.

Funding availability limits major reconstruction to major or minor collector roads.

4. Many Federally funded projects have DBE goals. What is a DBE?

DBE stands for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, a program implemented by local agencies and state departments of transportation pursuant to federal regulations. This program applies to all contracts financed in whole or in part by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) or Federal Highways Administration (FHWA). In order for small disadvantaged firms, including those owned by minorities and women, to participate as a DBE in federal-assisted contracts, they must apply for and receive certification. For the State of California, DBE certification is performed by a certifying agency of the California Unified Certification Program (CUCP).

5. My company can probably qualify as a DBE. Can the County certify us?

Tuolumne County itself is not a certifying agency. However, businesses located in Tuolumne County wishing to become certified should contact one of these certifying agencies serving our area:

CENTRAL CONTRA COSTA TRANSIT AUTHORITY (CCCTA)
Office of Civil Rights
2477 Arnold Industrial Way
Concord, CA 94520-5327
Phone: (925) 676-1976
Fax: (925) 686-2630
cccta.org

CITY OF FRESNO
Finance Department, Purchasing Division, DBE Program
2600 Fresno Street, Room 2156
Fresno, CA 93721-3622
Phone: (559) 621-1182
Fax: (559) 488-1069
fresno.gov

S.F. BAY AREA RAPID TRANSIT DISTRICT (BART)
Office of Civil Rights
300 Lakeside Drive
18th Floor
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (510) 464-7580
Fax: (510) 464-7587
bart.gov

SAN FRANCISCO MUNICIPAL TRANSPORTATION AGENCY (SFMTA)
Contract Compliance Office
1 South Van Ness Avenue, 6th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: (415) 701-4436
Fax: (415) 701-4347
sfmta.com

SAN MATEO COUNTY TRANSIT DISTRICT (SAMTRANS)/
PENINSULA CORRIDOR JOINT POWERS BOARD (JPB)
DBE Office
1250 San Carlos Avenue
San Carlos, CA 94070
Phone: (650) 508-7939
Fax: (650) 508-7738
samtrans.com

SANTA CLARA VALLEY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (VTA)
Small & Disadvantaged Businesses
3331 North First Street, Bldg. A
San Jose, CA 95134-1906
Phone: (408) 321-5962
Fax: (408) 955-9729

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Engineering Development

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1. When do I need an Encroachment Permit?

A permit will be required when work is done within a County Maintained Road right-of-way. Also, certain building permit projects require existing non-conforming encroachments to be brought up to current county standards.

2. What part of my driveway am I required to pave?

A typical residential driveway is to be paved 12 feet wide by 20 feet in length, with a 10 foot radius at the edge of the traveled way.

3. Can I use concrete for my driveway?

The first 5 feet of a driveway from the road is generally required to be asphalt, after which you may use either concrete or asphalt for the remainder of the driveway.

4. What am I required to submit for a large project encroachment on a county maintained road?

Prior to submittal of the encroachment permit application please visit our office, where staff will assist you in determining what will be required for your project.

5. When does my encroachment need to be inspected?

Please refer to the Encroachment Permit Information Packet

6. When does an Encroachment permit expire?

A permit is good for one year from the date of issuance.

7. What if I cannot complete the work on my encroachment before the expiration date?

A written request for an extension on your encroachment permit must be sent or faxed to our office prior to the expiration of date of your permit. Please state the reason that you feel an extension is warranted and how much additional time you will need to complete your project.

8. What is a Grading Review Permit?

A Grading Review Permit (GRP) is issued when grading is greater than 50 cubic yards (cy) and is proposed in conjunction with a sewage disposal permit or well permit. A GRP is required in conjunction with a building permit if the grading exceeds 50 cy and the parcel size is greater than 3.0 net acres.

9. When do I need a Grading Permit?

If you are grading more than 50 cubic yards, you must first obtain a Grading Permit or obtain an exemption from the Community Resources Agency.

10. How is a GRP different from a Grading Permit?

The main differences between a GRP and a Grading Permit, is the GRP is not subject to CEQA review and is less expensive.

11. I need a Grading Permit, how do I go about obtaining one?

By filling out and submitting a Land Development Application along with a Site Plan. For additional information please consult the Grading Permit Information Packet.

12. I need to calculate the amount of grading, how do I do that?

The grading amount shown on the application form is intended to be the largest amount whether it be cut or fill not the combination of the two. Information on how to calculate the quantity of anticipated grading can be found in the Grading Information Packet.

13. What is a “stockpiling” permit?

Stockpiling is the temporary storing of earth material on a site for future use. In order to obtain a permit to stockpile the applicant should anticipate placing the stockpile on a natural slope that is 10% or less, in a manner that does not create a nuisance or a hazard to the general public. The length of time that a stockpile is allowed is specified in the Tuolumne County Ordinance Code section 12.20.390 (D).