Simi Valley Ethics Disclosure & Gift Rules

General Governance and Administration California 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of California

Simi Valley, California requires public officials and certain local filers to follow state and local rules on ethics disclosures and gifts. This guide explains who must disclose, what counts as a gift, where to find forms, how enforcement works, and practical steps to comply in Simi Valley.

Overview

Local elected officials, appointed officials who make governmental decisions, and designated municipal employees typically face disclosure obligations and limits on gifts. California law often governs disclosure formats (Form 700) while the City of Simi Valley enforces local filing and conflict rules through the City Clerk and code enforcement processes. For official code text and filing guidance, consult the city code and the state Fair Political Practices Commission resources.[1][2]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement may involve the City Clerk, city legal counsel, code enforcement, or referral to state agencies; penalties can include fines, administrative orders, and referral to courts. Exact fine amounts and escalation schedules are not specified on the cited municipal pages and are described on state enforcement pages for statutory violations.[1][2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited Simi Valley code page; consult the cited state page for statutory penalty ranges.[2]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences—details not specified on the cited city page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative orders, corrective filings, injunctions, or court action may be used.
  • Enforcer and complaints: City Clerk and city legal counsel manage local filings and complaints; state FPPC handles statewide conflict and gift investigations.[1]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes depend on the enforcing body; timelines for appeal or administrative review are not specified on the cited city pages.
If a specific fine or deadline is required for your case, request the exact citation from the City Clerk or the FPPC page.

Applications & Forms

The primary disclosure form for financial interests is the FPPC Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700). Filers submit this form to the City Clerk as the filing official for local filings; electronic filing procedures and deadlines are referenced by the FPPC and by the City Clerk office.[2][1]

  • Form name/number: Statement of Economic Interests, FPPC Form 700 (state form).
  • Purpose: annual and transaction-based disclosure of economic interests and gifts.
  • Submission: filed with the City Clerk (local filing) or per FPPC instructions for state filings; check the City Clerk page for local submission details.[1]
  • Fees/deadlines: fees are typically not charged for filing Form 700; specific deadlines are listed on the FPPC guidance or City Clerk notices.
Most elected officials and many designated staff must file Form 700; check the City Clerk for your filing category.

Common Violations & Typical Responses

  • Failure to file a required disclosure: may prompt administrative notice and requirement to cure the omission.
  • Accepting prohibited gifts: can trigger an investigation and corrective action.
  • Incomplete or inaccurate disclosure: subject to amendment orders and possible penalties.

How-To

  1. Determine if you are a filer: contact the City Clerk to confirm designation and filing obligations.[1]
  2. Obtain and complete Form 700: download from the FPPC site and fill per instructions.[2]
  3. Submit to the City Clerk: file electronically or deliver in person per local filing rules; retain copies.
  4. If you receive a complaint or notice: review the notice, gather documentation, and follow appeal or cure instructions within the stated timeframe.

FAQ

Who must file ethics disclosures in Simi Valley?
Designated city officials, many elected officers, and certain employees who make governmental decisions must file, per city designation and state rules.[1]
Where do I get Form 700?
Form 700 is available from the California FPPC website and filing instructions are provided by the City Clerk for local submission.[2]
What happens if I miss a filing deadline?
Consequences vary by enforcement body; contact the City Clerk immediately to seek cure instructions and check state guidance for potential penalties.

Key Takeaways

  • Check with the City Clerk to confirm whether you are a designated filer.
  • Use FPPC Form 700 for financial disclosures and follow local submission rules.
  • Report complaints or request clarification through the City Clerk or the FPPC as applicable.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Simi Valley Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] Fair Political Practices Commission - Gifts and Conflict of Interest
  3. [3] City of Simi Valley - City Clerk

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