Frequently asked questions

Find an answer by searching for keywords, or choosing a relevant category or regulation.
Email permitsonoma-customerservice@sonoma-county.org if you don't find what you're looking for.
Question (74)Tags
Do I need a clearance or permit from the local fire district for my vacation rental?
Transient Rentals
What is a certified property manager and how do you become one?
Transient RentalsProcess
What do Vacation Rentals need to have?
Transient Rentals
How do I stop operating my Vacation Rental?
Transient Rentals
What is the definition of a Vacation Rental and of a Hosted Rental? What's the difference?
Transient RentalsDefinitions
Does my parcel allow a Vacation Rental?
Transient RentalsZoning
How do the new Vacation Rental Ordinances affect my existing approved Vacation Rental Permit?
Transient Rentals
What is next for the Vacation Rental program?
Transient Rentals
Can I rent a Vacation Rental for a wedding, party, or similar event?
Transient Rentals
How do we join the Exclusion "X" or Cap Zone "X5" Combining Districts?
Transient Rentals
How do I register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)?
ProcessTransient Rentals
Can I Apply for a Vacation Rental if my parcel is in an “X” Percentage Cap Zone?
ZoningTransient Rentals
Can I use my Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) for a Vacation or Hosted Rental?
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)Transient Rentals§ 26.24.020§ 26.28.160§ 26.24.170
Who is allowed to obtain a Vacation Rental License and how do I obtain a Vacation Rental License?
Transient RentalsProcess
Are there limits on the number of Vacation Rentals someone can own?
Transient Rentals
What do I do if I received a Vacation Rental or Hosted Rental violation?
Transient RentalsProcess
How do I submit or file a complaint about a Vacation Rental?
Transient RentalsProcess
How are Vacation Rentals regulated on the coast?
Transient RentalsCoastal
Do I need Design Review for a Food Truck, Trailer, or Cart?
ZoningLand DevelopmentCommercial Uses
What is a certificate of occupancy?
Definitions
What does my permit status in Accela mean?
Definitions
My parcel is located within the F1 Floodway or the F2 Floodplain. What does that mean for my parcel? Can I appeal?
Land DevelopmentStreams & WaterwaysZoning8-1-12Article 56Article 58
Why am I being charged for school fees if I don't have any children?
Process
How Do I Request a Refund?
Process
What is the difference between architectural drawings and structural drawings? Why do I need both?
Definitions
What is the definition of density?
ZoningDefinitions
What is the definition of a bathroom?
Residential Accessory UsesDefinitions1-4-11-4-6
What is an "attached" room or structure?
Residential Accessory UsesDefinitions1-4-1
What is the definition of a tiny house?
Temporary HousingDefinitions
What is a bedroom?
Residential Accessory UsesDefinitions1-4-11-4-6
Can I build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)§ 26.88.060
How do I schedule an inspection?
Process
Can my review be expedited?
Process
Can my project be processed over the counter?
Process
What is the building code?
Process
How do I draw plans?
Process
If I am legalizing existing grading, why do I need a drainage report?
Process
How do I get an additional address for my property?
Process
I applied online for a permit, but was not directed to make a payment. What else do I have to do?
Process
My permit has been approved by all divisions. What are my next steps?
Process
How do I renew an expired permit?
Process
Where can I get the permit card with all the inspections and their results?
Process
I uploaded revised plans to my permit. When will it be re-reviewed?
Process
How long will my permit take to be issued?
Process
How can I get an extension on my permit?
Process
I cannot schedule a final inspection via the website. What should I do?
Process
I don't have the ability to select my contractor number in the application form to submit for a permit. What should I do?
Process
How do I upload documents to respond to comments?
Process
Where can I see my documents online for my permit?
Process
How do I get a refund?
Process
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