Aircraft Information

Aircraft are taxable and are appraised annually at current market value as of January 1. Values are determined by reviewing purchase prices, sales of comparable aircraft and other market data. Information on their location and ownership is obtained from the State Board of Equalization, Federal Aviation Administration, airport listings, and on-site inspections.

This category of property includes single and multi-engine piston planes, turboprops, helicopters, business jets, hot air balloons, kit planes and other aircraft types.

Private use of public property is taxable under certain conditions. If you rent or lease a tie down or hanger from a city or the county, you may receive a property tax assessment if:

• You are using facilities owned by a government agency (city, county, state, school district, etc.)
• Your right to use government-owned property is independent, durable and exclusive
• You are not a government agency.

Aircraft of Historical Significance

This exemption is available to aircraft meeting the following criteria:

• The aircraft must be an original, a restoration, or a replica of a heavier-than-air-powered-aircraft that is 35 years or older or any aircraft of a type or model of which there are fewer than five in number known to exist worldwide.
• The aircraft must be owned by an individual rather than a corporation or other legal entity.
• The aircraft is not held primarily for sale, and not used for commercial purposes or general transportation
• The aircraft must be available for display to the public at least 12 days during the 12 month period immediately preceding the lien date. Documentation must be provided that the aircraft was displayed in such a manner that the general public was aware that they were invited for public viewing and reasonable accommodations were provided to allow for that.

A certificate of attendance from the event coordinator of each event at which the aircraft was displayed must be submitted with the exemption claim form by February 15th. Claims filed February 16 – August 1 will receive a partial exemption for that year. There is a $35 non-refundable application fee.

Frequently Asked Questions