Child Passenger Safety Resources

Child Seat Safety 2018 California Car Seat Laws

  • Children under 2 years of age shall ride in a rear-facing car seat until they weigh 40 pounds or more or are at least 40 inches tall.
  • Children under the age of 8 or under 4'9" must be secured in the appropriate car seat or booster seat in the back seat.
  • Vehicle safety belt should fit as follows: lap belt low (touching the thighs), shoulder belt across middle of chest and shoulder (not under arm or behind back), knees bent comfortably without slouching.
  • If your child does not fit this description, make sure they ride in a booster seat.
  • It is always a good idea to have a certified technician check the installation of your car seat.
  • Child Passenger Safety Resources 2023 Flyer(PDF, 920KB)

Child Seat Safety Inspection Sites (by appointment only)

Santa Cruz Fire Department is no longer performing child seat safety inspections. Please contact one of the following agencies for an inspection.

  • AAA Watsonville 831-768-4570 (se habla Español)
  • California Highway Patrol 831-662-0511
  • Scotts Valley Fire Protection District 831-438-0211&
  • Watsonville Fire Department 831-768-3209 (se habla Español)

Child Passenger Safety Outreach and Education

Santa Cruz County Child Passenger Safety Outreach and Education

No-Cost Car Seats
Car seats are available on a limited basis for low-income families. Proof of low-income status or a referral from a community agency is required.

For more information or an appointment call:

  • Santa Cruz/North County: 831-454-5477
  • Watsonville/South County: 831-454-4317
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