Counties served by the Fresno Regional Office

Adoption Information

For general information on the adoption process and other adoption services provided by the Fresno Regional Office, please call (559) 243-8200.

Independent Adoption Program

In an Independent adoption, it is the birth/legal parent's decision and responsibility to select the adoptive parent(s) and to place the child directly with the adoptive family.  The function of the Fresno Regional Office for Independent adoptions is to investigate Independent adoptions for the counties listed above and then file a report with the courts.  Another function of this office includes investigating set-aside adoption petitions in the same counties.

In the Independent Adoption Program, if you are adopting an unrelated minor, you must obtain the services of an Adoption Service Provider (ASP).  Please visit the Adoption Service Provider website for a list of ASPs near you.  If you are related to the minor, or have had guardianship for at least one year, you will not need the services of an ASP.  However, if you would like to enlist the services of an ASP, the ASP may provide the services.

If you have questions regarding the Independent Adoption Program, please call us at (559) 243-8200.

Post Adoption Services

The Fresno Regional Office has partnered with Aspiranet Foster and Adoption Agency to create the REACH program.  This program provides services to families and children who have finalized their adoptions, but who have a continued need for assistance.  The REACH program offers information and referral services, individual and family counseling, specialized adoption training events, regular group meetings with adoptive parents to offer support and guidance, and respite care and educational resources.  For more information about resources in your area, call Aspiranet REACH program at (209) 669-2577 or visit the Aspiranet REACH website.

Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children

The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) is a contract among member states and U.S. territories authorizing them to work together to ensure that children who are placed across state lines for foster care or adoption receive adequate protection and support services.  The ICPC establishes procedures for the adoption of children coming into California from another state and for children who are leaving California to be adopted by individuals who live in other states.

To learn more about ICPC and resources available such as forms and policies, please visit the CDSS ICPC website.

Inter-Country Adoptions

The Fresno Regional Office does not provide Intercountry Adoption services.  To obtain information about the program requirements, please contact a private adoption agency licensed to provide these services in the county where you reside.  To obtain a copy of licensed adoption agencies, please visit the Directory of Public and Licensed California Adoption Agencies website or call 1 (800) KIDS-4-US.

For further details on Intercountry adoptions, please visit the U.S. Department of State website and USCIS website which provides detailed explanation on the process for intercountry adoptions.  If you have any questions after reviewing these websites, you may contact the Adoption Policy Unit by emailing APU@dss.ca.gov.