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California · RecordingCalifornia recording fees: $10 for the first page, $3 for each extra page and the $75 fee

California's base fee for recording and indexing an instrument may not exceed $10 for the first page and $3 for each additional page (Government Code §27361(a)). The recorder adds $3 per page that doesn't meet the size standard of §27361.5 and $1 per page with small-spaced printing (§27361(a)(1)–(2)). On top of that, since January 1, 2018 a $75 fee is paid when recording every real estate instrument, paper or notice, per single transaction per parcel, capped at $225 (§27388.1(a)(1)). The $75 fee isn't charged on documents recorded in connection with a transfer subject to documentary transfer tax, a transfer of a residential dwelling to an owner-occupier, filings by the federal, state or local government, or documents removing an unlawful restrictive covenant (§27388.1(a)(2)). Counties may add other fees set elsewhere in the code.

What the statutes set

  1. Base fee (§27361(a))

    Up to $10 for the first page and $3 for each additional page.

  2. Surcharges (§27361(a))

    $3 per nonconforming page; $1 per page of small print.

  3. $75 fee (§27388.1(a)(1))

    Per single transaction per parcel, capped at $225.

  4. Exemptions (§27388.1(a)(2))

    Taxed transfers, owner-occupied home transfers, government filings, covenant removals.

What the TC prepares before California documents are recorded

  • Ask the escrow or title officer for the county's recording fee schedule.
  • Note which documents carry the $75 fee and which fall under an exemption.
  • Put the recording fees on the settlement statement as the purchase contract allocates them.

Questions about California recording fees

How much does it cost to record a deed in California?

The base fee is up to $10 for the first page and $3 for each extra page, plus surcharges and the $75 fee unless exempt (Gov. Code §§27361, 27388.1).

When doesn't the $75 California recording fee apply?

On documents recorded with a transfer subject to documentary transfer tax, a transfer of a residential dwelling to an owner-occupier, government filings and covenant removals (Gov. Code §27388.1(a)(2)).

Related guides

Track recording fees and the settlement statement as tasks on the deal in ClosingCode.

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Sources: Government Code §§27361, 27388.1 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov), read October 31, 2026.

General information, not legal advice. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm or brokerage. This guide is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney.