Tax Relief Available to Chariot Fire Property Owners

Tax relief could be on the way for some property owners who suffered at least $10,000 in damage from the recent 7,000-acre Chariot Fire near Julian.

County Assessor/Recorder Ernest Dronenburg issued a reminder Tuesday that under the county's tax relief program, damaged homes, out buildings, commercial and industrial properties and mobile homes can have their values reassessed. But property that isn't taxable, such as furniture and vehicles, are not eligible for tax relief.

The full pre-fire value also can be retained if the property is rebuilt or repaired similar to how it was before the damage, but the assessment will not increase beyond the pre-fire value.

Property owners can get claim forms by visiting sdarcc.com or calling 619-531-4993. The claims must be filed within 12 months, and the damage must have a market value equal or greater to $10,000.

Officials are still investigating the cause of the fire, which burned more than 7,000 acres and 149 structures from July 6-15 near Julian.