Selfie Among The Almond Blossoms Could Cost Up To $1,000: Sheriff

SOLANO COUNTY, CA — Almond trees are in bloom across many parts of Northern California, including Solano County, and the blossoms they produce make for a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop. So while it's that time of year when photographers and selfie seekers head out to get their shots, it's also that time of year for the Solano County Sheriff's Office to give a reminder about trespassing.

"Recently, several properties have seen an uptick in visitors," the sheriff's office said in a Facebook post, describing an especially steady stream of people stopping on roadways and in orchards in unincorporated areas of Dixon and Vacaville.

The Solano County Sheriff's Office said it is aware of the allure of its beautiful community and welcomes visitors, but is committed to community service and will continue to look out for its local farmers and property owners.

Accessing any private property without permission from the land owner is a misdemeanor, making it an offense punishable by arrest and/or a citation with fines up to $1,000, according to the sheriff's office.

It is also an issue of safety.

"Many of these aspiring photographers stop on the side of the road to take photos in front (which is OK, if it doesn't interfere with traffic or business), however many of these rural roads are roadways established primarily for farm equipment (tractors, trailers and trucks) belonging to property owners and businesses," the sheriff's office said. "These roadways do not have viable shoulders, making it not only difficult, but impossible to pass safely."

The sheriff's office went on to say that "many selfie-seekers have even been brazen enough to drive into orchards, 'set up photo shop,' while they share a nice bottle of #SolanoCountyWine, picnic and let their children and pets run through the almond orchard and flower petals."

"Resident Deputy Currie has spoken to several property owners who are extremely concerned about not only the civil liability, but the environmental impact these selfie-seekers are having on their crops and property," the sheriff's office said.

Among incidents reported thus far this season, cars have gotten stuck in orchards, watering lines have been damaged and trash from picnics has been left behind.

"On behalf of our fellow community members, we are asking the public to please share this message, respect our Solano County farmers' private property and if you STILL find it necessary to make the day trip up to these orchards and interfere with these families livelihoods, you MUST park safely when/if they’re considering stopping to take any photos."