What does the sheriff charge for a lockout?

Varies by county. Each Sheriff's Department publishes its civil-process fee schedule. OC, LA, San Diego all have separate schedules. The total typically includes a writ service fee plus possibly additional posting or vehicle fees.

Where do I find current sheriff fees?

Each county Sheriff's Department publishes the civil-process fee schedule on its website. Search '[County] Sheriff civil fees' or check the Sheriff's Civil Division page directly.

Is there a separate fee for the 5-day notice posting?

Generally included in the writ service fee. Some counties break it out. Verify the schedule before payment.

Can I recover sheriff costs from the tenant?

Yes — sheriff fees are recoverable as costs of suit in the judgment. Collection is a separate question (see money-judgment-collection).

What about lockout scheduling delays?

1–3 weeks in OC and LA between writ delivery and lockout date. Some counties run faster, some slower. Plan for the longer window.

Sheriff civil fees

Sheriff lockout cost. Pull the current schedule for your county.

Varies by county. Each Sheriff's Department publishes a civil-process fee schedule. Recoverable as costs in the UD judgment.

TL;DR

Sheriff fees vary by county. Each Sheriff's Civil Division publishes the current schedule. Recoverable as costs of suit. Scheduling adds 1–3 weeks in OC/LA.

Sheriff Lockout Procedure
Eviction Cost

Common questions — sheriff cost

How much?

Varies by county. Check current schedule.

Where to find?

County Sheriff Civil Division website.

Posting fee separate?

Usually included in writ service fee.

Recover from tenant?

Yes — costs of suit. Collection a separate question.

Scheduling time?

1–3 weeks in OC/LA.