Why is there an increase in my annual environmental health permit fee?
Permit fees are periodically adjusted to reflect the actual cost of providing inspection and program services. These costs include the time required to conduct on‑site inspections, travel, reporting, record updates, and overall program support. In some programs, facilities are inspected more than once each year, which also affects the total cost.
Were permit holders notified of the proposed increase?
Yes. The proposed fee changes were posted on the Yolo County website, and facilities that previously provided email contact information received email notifications. Postal notifications were not sent to all permitted facilities due to mailing costs. If you would like to receive future notices, please contact Environmental Health to add or update your email address.
How were fees determined?
Environmental Health works with the Auditor/Controller’s Office and the County Administrator’s Office to conduct a detailed cost-of-service analysis. In some cases, outside consultants assist with time, task, and cost evaluations. All recommended fee adjustments are reviewed and approved by the Board of Supervisors.
Why doesn’t the Department cut costs instead of raising our fees?
Environmental Health adjusts fees only as needed to cover the actual cost of services provided. The division continues to review operations and identify opportunities for efficiency and cost savings wherever possible.
Do fees increase every year?
No. Fees are reviewed annually, and adjustments are made only when appropriate. Depending on the results of the cost analysis, a fee may increase, decrease, or remain the same.
The inspector was only at my business for an hour, but my fee is several hundred dollars. Why does it cost so much?
An inspection involves more than the time spent on-site. Fees cover the full scope of work, including file review, travel time, the inspection itself, report writing, documentation, follow‑up activities, and program-wide tasks such as staff training, developing educational materials, and maintaining program resources. Some facilities also require inspections more than once a year depending on the program requirements.
Are there things I can do to lower my bill?
Yes. Additional fees may be assessed for violations that require re-inspections or enforcement actions. The best way to avoid extra costs is to maintain full compliance with environmental health regulations. If you have questions about compliance, please contact our office and request to speak with your assigned inspector.
