California Code, Revenue and Taxation Code - RTC § 2959

Property seized may be redeemed by the owner thereof by the payment of taxes, penalties and costs at any time before such property is sold. Prior to the time the property is sold such payment may be made at the office of the tax collector or to the auctioneer at the place of sale as designated in the notice of sale. For purposes of this section, property is sold when the bid is accepted by the auctioneer.