San Diego County Small Claims Court
How to file a small claims case in San Diego County, CA. Courthouse locations, hours, fees, and filing options for the San Diego area.
Small claims in California — the numbers for San Diego County courts
$12,500
maximum claim
from $30
filing fee (published, varies by claim)
2–4 yrs
filing deadline by claim type
No
e-filing — file in person or by mail
Published court information — verify before acting. See the full California small claims guide · The form that starts a case (SC-100): every field explained.
Main Courthouse
Hall of Justice (Central Division)
330 W. Broadway, Room 241
San Diego, CA 92101
Other Courthouse Locations
Chula Vista Branch (South County Regional Center)
500 3rd Ave.
Chula Vista, CA 91910
El Cajon Branch (East County Regional Center)
250 Main Street
El Cajon, CA 92020
Vista Branch (North County Regional Center)
325 South Melrose Drive
Vista, CA 92081
How to File in San Diego County
File in person
Bring your completed forms to the courthouse clerk during business hours. Pay the filing fee by cash, check, or credit card.
File by mail
Most small claims courts accept filing by mail — check with this courthouse first. Typically you mail your completed forms with the filing fee (check or money order) plus a self-addressed stamped envelope for your returned copies.
Ready to take action in San Diego County?
A demand letter often settles disputes before a case is ever filed — and it only takes a few minutes.
Read the demand letter guideSmall claims rules in California
How much you can sue for
Individuals can sue for up to $12,500 · businesses up to $6,250.
Individuals limited to 2 claims over $2,500/year. Businesses limited to 2 claims over $2,500/year. Filing fee increases to $100 if you file more than 12 claims/year.
Deadline to file (statute of limitations)
4 yrs written contract · 2 yrs oral contract · 3 yrs property damage · 2 yrs personal injury
Common questions
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in San Diego County?
Filing fees in California are set by the state and run from $30 to $75, depending on how much you're claiming. If you can't afford the fee, California offers a fee waiver — ask the clerk how to apply. Fees change, so confirm the current amount with the court clerk before you file.
What's the most I can sue for in San Diego County?
Small claims cases in San Diego County are limited to $12,500. If your claim is worth more than that, you either have to bring it in a different court or give up the amount above the limit to stay in small claims. The clerk can confirm which court fits your claim.
Can I file online in San Diego County?
No — the record shows no electronic filing for small claims in San Diego County. You'll file in person or by mail. Check with the clerk before you make the trip, in case that's changed.
Do I have to have a lawyer to file in San Diego County?
Small claims court is built for people representing themselves, and most filers do exactly that. Whether an attorney may appear varies by state — the state guide linked on this page covers the rule where you are, and the clerk can confirm it.
Answers reflect published court data. Court rules and fees change — the clerk is always the authoritative source.