The Public Housing Program provides rental assistance to low and moderate-income families and individuals. The Housing Authority owns and manages all rental units offered under this program, which is located in communities throughout Tulare County.

The four main areas are: Visalia, Tulare, Porterville and the north county area, which includes Dinuba, Woodlake, Cutler, Traver and London. Each area has a separate waiting list, but you may apply for any or all of them at one time because applications are taken by telephone.

When you apply for housing, you must inform us of your current income. You must also give us the names of family members who will be living with you so we can determine what size home you will require.

After you apply, you will be screened for eligibility as a resident. The screening process includes an unannounced home visit, a look at current and previous landlord references, a criminal records check and a credit check. Sex offenders are excluded from the program by Federal Law.

The Housing Authority must find acceptable housekeeping standards and good rent-paying habits, or your application will not be accepted. Families who are disapproved may appeal.

Once approved, you will be placed on the waiting list. From time to time we may check to see if you are still interested. You must reply to our letter immediately to stay on the waiting list. You also need to let us know right away if your address, income or family size changes.

 

When your name reaches the top of the list and a unit is going to be available, the Housing Authority will ask you to come to a meeting. During this meeting, we will tell you where the unit is located and explain the program in more detail. We will also verify your income, and citizenship or eligible alien status.

Through the Moving to Work program, rents are fixed based upon the unit size your family qualifies for. Water, garbage, sewer, a stove and a refrigerator are included in your rent payments. There is a five year time limit to this type of rental assistance in most cases, because the fixed rent amounts help families to stabilize their housing costs as they work to achieve self-sufficiency and save for other housing opportunities.

Elderly families, whose head or co-tenant is over 62 or disabled or handicapped may choose to have their rent based on their income rather than the flat rental amounts, and time limits do not apply. Families who qualify for this option will be given the opportunity to choose at the time they are housed.

Once you are housed, you must maintain the home and the yard. Some pets are allowed with prior approval and an additional deposit. Remember, it is important to report any changes in your family size to the Housing Authority. We will inspect your home and re-verify your income once a year.

Applications are taken at our central application number, (559) 627-3700, extension 125, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, except holidays.

INCOME LIMITS
Number in Family	1	2	3	4	5	6
Income	18,850	21,500	24,200	26,900	29,050	31,200

Number in Family	7	8	9	10	11	12+
Income	33,350	35,500	37,650	39,800	41,950	Call