Santa Cruz County Extends Price Gouging Prohibition

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — Santa Cruz County has extended price gouging prohibitions through Oct. 18 as many residents look to put their lives back together following the CZU August Lightning Complex Fires.

The protections mean the prices of critical goods, services and supplies — such as housing or food — can't be raised more than 10 percent above customary prices.

Anyone who violates this prohibition is subject to $1,000 fines or a year in jail, the county said. They may also face up to $10,000 in civil penalties.

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors may extend these protections by 30 more days, if needed.