I am in a relationship with someone in another county 3 hours away. I am in California. I have primary custody of my children with some visitation for father. Can I move without the father's permisssion? Or do I have to do it through the court. I am currently in the process of asking for full legal custody as well because father is incapable of cooperating with me and making good decisions for children.
Thanks

Were you married? I ask this because there would be divorce papers with the visitation schedule. Also the language about moving to another state. For example, in my divorce, it was stipulated that my ex had to give his permission for me to move out of state with our son.

If you were not married, and you are the custodial parent, I do not believe you have to seek your ex's permission. Always best to check with the courts. You say you are in the process of seeking full custody - a good person to ask is your attorney handling that petition for you.

Good luck.

Yes we were married and are now divorced. I have primary custody with him having them for every other weekend.
He is not involved in their lives very much and pays a tiny amount of child support and does not comply with any orders to pay for childcare etc. also is currently living out his car.

The divorce and/or child custody agreements should spell out specificly what you are allowed or not allowed to do.

Often it is the distance, not the exact location. But sometimes it may say state. But it will be what ever your agreement says.