DUI Checkpoints in Plumas County, CA

Plumas County is a quiet, mountain-lined region in Northern California known for its scenic highways, charming small towns, and outdoor recreation. Cities like Quincy, Portola, Chester, and Greenville are spread across forested terrain, with major roads like Highway 70, Highway 89, and Highway 36 running through.

While this area may seem peaceful, DUI is still a problem, especially during camping season, winter holidays, and local events. In 2024, the county saw over 30 DUI-related incidents, including 2 serious injuries. To keep the roads safe, Plumas County law enforcement regularly sets up DUI checkpoints, particularly on weekends and during times of increased tourism or gatherings.

Quincy – Crescent Street near Main Street

Exact Location: Near Plumas County Courthouse and downtown shops.

Agency: Quincy Area CHP & Plumas County Sheriff’s Office

Details: This checkpoint is common during local parades and community events. Officers begin setting up around 5:30 PM and run until 10:30 PM, stopping vehicles to check for impaired driving, expired licenses, and open alcohol containers.

Portola – Highway 70 near Gulling Street

Exact Location: Just outside the Portola city limits, where local roads meet the main highway.

Agency: California Highway Patrol – Quincy Office

Details: This spot sees high traffic during holidays, especially when folks are heading to or from Reno. Checkpoints usually operate from 6 PM to 11:30 PM, with officers scanning every few cars for drug or alcohol impairment.

Chester – Highway 36 near Main Street

Exact Location: Near Lake Almanor Village entrance.

Agency: Plumas County Sheriff’s Office

Details: Set up during the summer season and holiday weekends, especially July 4th. Officers check for signs of intoxication, seatbelt use, and valid registration between 6 PM and 10:30 PM.

Greenville – Highway 89 near Pine Street

Exact Location: Residential area near local stores and gas stations.

Agency: CHP & Local Deputies

Details: Checkpoints here are common during community festivals or Friday night football games. Officers stop every 3rd or 4th vehicle between 5:30 PM and 10 PM, focusing on impaired drivers and vehicle compliance.

Lake Almanor – Highway A13 near Peninsula Drive

Exact Location: Close to vacation rentals and lake access roads.

Agency: California Highway Patrol

Details: This area becomes busy during the summer and long weekends. Checkpoints operate from 6 PM to 11 PM, often with drug recognition experts on site due to increased cannabis use in the area.

DUI Penalties in Plumas County

If you get stopped at a checkpoint and arrested for DUI in Plumas County, you’re looking at serious consequences, even if it’s your first time.

First DUI Offense:

  • Fines up to $2,000

  • License suspension (6 months)

  • DUI classes for 3–9 months

  • Jail time or probation

  • Higher insurance premiums

Second or Third DUI:

  • 1 to 3 years of license suspension

  • Installation of ignition interlock device

  • Jail time or house arrest

  • Total costs may reach $10,000 or more

Aggravated DUI:

  • Felony charges if someone is injured

  • Possible state prison sentence

  • Long-term license revocation

  • Loss of employment or professional licenses

Don’t wait until you’re pulled over to realize the cost. If you’re drinking or using substances—just don’t drive. Plan ahead, use a sober driver, or get a ride. These checkpoints are out here to protect everyone on the road—including you.