The director or a peace officer may investigate to ascertain the ownership of any avocados that have been held pursuant to this chapter. If the lawful owner is located, the avocados shall be released to the owner, or his or her agent. The director may require reasonable payment to cover costs incurred in the storing of the avocados, but not to exceed the value of the avocados.

(Added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 1068, Sec. 4. Effective September 30, 1989.)