Fee Waivers and Sheriff’s Costs

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Civil Unit does not serve “General Civil Process.” Click here for an explanation of what constitutes “General Civil Process.” The exception to this policy is that the Sheriff will serve any process or enforcement action with a valid “Fee Waiver” ordered by the court that specifically waives Sheriff’s fees. For example, with a valid “Fee Waiver,” the Sheriff will serve “Summons and Petition” court documents without the requester depositing the $30.00 service fee.

However, the requester should be aware that a “Fee Waiver” order from the court waives the Sheriff’s fees but not the Sheriff’s costs. For example, a person requesting an auto levy with our office towards satisfying a civil judgment and having a valid “Fee Waiver” would not have to provide the $85.00 fee deposit but must provide a deposit to cover the Sheriff’s costs to tow and store the vehicle prior to sale. This cost deposit may vary depending on the size and location of the vehicle to be levied upon. Furthermore, additional deposits may be required to store the vehicle due to delays in the sale caused by pending court actions.