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.
QuestionTags
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 & WaterwaysZoning
8-1-12
Article 56
Article 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 UsesDefinitions
1-4-1
1-4-6
What is an "attached" room or structure?
Residential Accessory UsesDefinitions
1-4-1
What is the definition of a tiny house?
Temporary HousingDefinitions
What is a bedroom?
Residential Accessory UsesDefinitions
1-4-1
1-4-6
What is a certificate of occupancy?
Definitions
What are impact fees?
Definitions
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
How do I create a revision on a permit?
Process
What is the status of my permit?
Process
Technical Corrections FAQ (PLP24-0013)
—
Can I operate a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (aka MEHKO) in a Hosted Rental or Bed & Breakfast?
Residential Accessory UsesZoningMicroenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO)
§ 26.88.118
If my existing vacation rental license status is marked 'expired', will I need to apply for a new license?
Transient Rentals
Article 8
What are setback requirements from public and private roads?
Zoning
§ 25.40
What permits are required for commercial cannabis cultivation?
Cannabis
§ 26.88.250
Can a new large residential propane (LPG) tank be in the front setbacks?
Residential Accessory Uses
How do endangered species, like the California Tiger Salamander, affect my application?
Animals
Can I designate an ADU as an affordable unit to defer required Affordable Housing fees while constructing my primary home?
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)Affordable & Workforce Housing
§ 26.89.040
What are "residential accessory" structures?
Residential Accessory Uses
1-4-6
Can I build a guest house?
§ 26.24.170
If I use a Hold/Pump and Haul contract to remove waste from my temporary Trailer, RV, Tiny Home Etc., do I need to save service receipts?
UtilitiesTemporary Housing
§ 26.88.010
8-1-1
If I had an Agricultural Exempt structure that burned down in the fire, do I need a new permit to rebuild it?
Rebuilding
How can I tell if my property is within Permit Sonoma's jurisdiction?
Zoning
Where can I grow cannabis plants for personal use?
Cannabis
§ 26.88.258
Does the County allow adult use (recreational) non-medical cannabis uses?
Cannabis
How many cannabis plants can I grow for personal use?
Cannabis
§ 26.88.258
12