Overview

Development Impact Fees are one-time fees assessed on new development to help fund public facilities required to serve growth. These fees ensure that new development contributes its fair share toward the cost of infrastructure and services needed to support it. 

The Willow Oak Fire Protection District (WOFPD) establishes, administers, and collects the Development Impact Fee (DIF). Yolo County does not administer or collect the fee; however, the County coordinates with the District during the development review process. Yolo County will not issue building permits until the District has collected the required Development Impact Fee and provided confirmation that the project has satisfied fire district requirements.

Applicants must contact Yolo County directly to obtain a Fire District Fee Form (Form #GH‑032). Once the form is obtained, it must be delivered to WOFPD to initiate the Development Impact Fee collection process.

YOLO BUILDS – Department of Community Services Building Division
292 W. Beamer Street
Woodland, CA 95695
Phone: (530) 666‑8775
Website: www.yolocounty.org
Email: Building.Division@yolocounty.org

Purpose of the Fees

The purpose of Development Impact Fees is to mitigate the impacts of new development on public facilities. Funds collected are used to finance capital improvements—such as facilities, vehicles, and equipment—that are necessary to maintain service levels as the community grows.

Legal Basis

Development Impact Fees are established in accordance with California’s Mitigation Fee Act (AB 1600). This law requires a clear connection between the fee charged and the impacts of development, including proportionality, benefit, and reasonable use of funds.

What the Fees Fund

Impact fee revenue may be used for:

• Construction or expansion of public facilities
• Purchase of vehicles and capital equipment
• Long-term infrastructure needed to serve new development

How Fees Are Calculated

Fees are calculated based on a comprehensive Impact Fee Study that analyzes projected growth, existing assets, service standards, and the cost of necessary facilities. The study ensures that fees are proportionate to the demand created by new development.

Current Fees

As of August 2022, the Development Impact Fee is $1.69 per square foot for all new construction and additions to existing buildings, regardless of property use. Imposing the fee on a per‑square‑foot basis provides proportionate funding based on building size and the resulting demand for fire response services.

Impact fee amounts may be updated periodically to reflect inflation, changes in construction costs, or revised growth projections. Revenue from Development Impact Fees can vary year to year depending on construction activity.

Transparency and Reporting

Collected fees are tracked and reported as required by law. Annual financial reports disclose Development Impact Fee revenues and expenditures to ensure transparency and accountability.

More Information

For detailed assumptions, methodologies, and fee schedules, please request a copy of the adopted Impact Fee Study from our office.