Cal. Gov. Code § 53198

Any contingent assessments including any penalties, when recorded in accordance with Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 3100) of the Streets and Highways Code, shall constitute a lien upon the real property, except that no lien shall be created against any publicly owned property, and the lien shall continue until the charge and all penalties are fully paid or the property is sold to satisfy the lien. The lien shall have the same force, effect, priority, and duration as would a delinquent lien under the particular financing act utilized.