Mendocino County is located on the north coast in California . As of 2000, the population was 86,265. The county seat is Ukiah. The county is noted for its distinctive Pacific Ocean coastline and is the location of the Mendocino American Viticultural Area. The County was created in 1850 and derives its name from Cape Mendocino. The county has a total area of 3,878 mi², 90% of it is land and 10% of it is water. In 2000, Mendocino County approved legalization for marijuana cultivation and possession for personal use , making it the first county in the US to declare prosecution of marijuana offenses the "lowest priority" for local law enforcement.