SAN DIEGO - The county of San Diego today began sending out 980,654 property tax bills -- a record number.

That's an increase of 1,781 taxable parcels from the previous year, according to Treasurer-Tax Collector Dan McAllister. He said the county expects to generate almost $4.6 billion in property tax revenues, an increase of $30 million over the previous fiscal year.

"Our numbers in San Diego County continue to rise," McAllister said. "More tax bills, more revenue and the collection rate from our taxpayers (is) at an all-time high at 98 percent."

The first installment is due beginning Nov. 1, and will Advertisement

[ Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary ] be delinquent after Dec. 10.

Property owners can pay online at sdtreastax.com; by phone at (855) 829- 3773; or in person at branch offices in Kearny Mesa, Chula Vista, El Cajon and San Marcos -- or the main office at the County Administration Center.

The county building is the only location where cash payments will be accepted, but the trip will be more difficult for the next few months because construction for a new waterfront park has closed the south parking lot.

McAllister also said the county now accepts American Express credit card payments, in addition to MasterCard, Visa and Discove