Harbors and Navigation Code § 4004

When any lands sought to be appropriated and used for a wharf or chute are not owned by the applicant or if a right of way and use has not been obtained by agreement, these facts and the particular description of the land shall be set forth in the petition of the applicant, and a copy of the notice of application shall be served on the owner by the sheriff of the county, at least ten days prior to the day set for the hearing. The sheriff’s official return is conclusive evidence of service.