Sonoma
Explore Sonoma's Market Performance
Unlock in-depth insights on short-term rental performance and investment returns in Sonoma. Want to see how Sonoma compares to other top cities in California? Explore all city regulations in California. →
STR Regulations for Sonoma, California
Overview: Are STRs Allowed in Sonoma, CA?
Yes, short-term rentals are allowed in both the City of Sonoma and unincorporated Sonoma County, but with significant restrictions:
City of Sonoma
- New vacation rentals are PROHIBITED as of December 4, 2017
- Only existing, legally licensed vacation rentals are allowed to continue operating
- Exception only for adaptive re-use of historic structures
Unincorporated Sonoma County
- New vacation rentals are allowed with permits in specific zones only
- Comprehensive licensing and permitting system required
- Multiple restrictions apply based on location and zoning
How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business
For Existing Licensed Properties in City of Sonoma
Since new STRs are prohibited, you can only operate if you acquire an existing licensed property that already has vacation rental permits.
For Unincorporated Sonoma County Properties
Follow this 4-step process:
- Become a Certified Property Manager
- Obtain Transient Vacation Rental Permit (Zoning Permit)
- Register for Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
- Obtain Vacation Rental License
Required Documents, Permits, and Licenses
City of Sonoma
- Business License or Transient Occupancy Tax Certificate number
- Property manager contact information filed with the city
- Compliance with updated operating standards
Unincorporated Sonoma County
- Vacation Rental Permit (zoning permit)
- Vacation Rental License (business license)
- TOT Registration with Sonoma County
- Certified Property Manager designation
- Septic permit verification
- Proof of adequate parking spaces
Specific Regulations
City of Sonoma Regulations
Operating Standards for All Vacation Rentals:
- Occupancy Limits: Maximum 2 persons per sleeping room plus 2 additional persons per unit
- Noise Restrictions: Prohibition on outdoor amplified sound
- Property Manager: Required with contact information provided to city
- Advertising Requirements: Must include Business License or TOT Certificate number in all online listings
- Inspection Fees: City may establish annual inspection fees
Unincorporated Sonoma County Regulations
Allowed Locations:
- Coastal Zone properties
- Agriculture Residential (AR), Rural Residential (RR), Planned Community Rural Residential (PCRR) zones
- Existing single-family residences in C2, LC, and K zones
- Land Extensive Agriculture (LEA), Diverse Agriculture (DA), Resource and Rural Development (RRD) zones
- Areas within Vacation Rental Cap Zone Combining Districts (where under capacity)
PROHIBITED Locations:
- Low-Density Residential (R1) zones
- Higher-density residential districts (R2, R3)
- Land Intensive Agriculture (LIA) zones
- Properties under Williamson Act contracts
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Areas in Vacation Rental Exclusion (X) Combining Districts
- Areas over capacity in Cap Zone districts
Operating Requirements:
- Occupancy: Maximum 2 people per sleeping room plus 2 additional persons per property, up to 12 people maximum
- Parking: 1 on-site space for 1-2 bedroom rentals; 2 spaces for 3-4 bedroom rentals
- Property Manager: Certified manager required for all properties
- Noise: Outdoor amplified sound generally prohibited
- Fire Safety: Defensible space maintenance required
- Lighting: Must comply with lumens limits per fixture
Ownership Restrictions:
- Property owners must be individuals (natural persons)
- LLCs cannot be licensees
- One vacation rental license per property owner (with exceptions for pre-2023 operators)
California State-Level Regulations
- Transient Occupancy Tax collection and remittance
- Fire safety and building code compliance
- Business license requirements
- ADA accessibility compliance where applicable
Contact Information
City of Sonoma
- Planning Department: (707) 938-3681
- Code Enforcement: Contact through city website
- General City Hall: (707) 933-2218
- Email: cityhall@sonomacity.org
- Address: City Hall, Sonoma, CA
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Fridays by appointment
Sonoma County (Unincorporated Areas)
- Vacation Rental Phone Line: (707) 565-1932
- Email: PRMD-VacationRentals@sonomacounty.gov
- Permit Center Address: 2550 Ventura Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
- Phone Hours:
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Tuesday-Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Thursday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Transient Occupancy Tax Registration
Contact Sonoma County Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector Office for TOT registration requirements.
Source Links
- City of Sonoma Vacation Rental Regulations: www.sonomacity.org/vacation-rental-regulation/
- Sonoma County Vacation Rental Information: permitsonoma.org/vacationrentals
- Sonoma County Vacation Rental Regulations: permitsonoma.org/regulationsandlongrangeplans/regulationsandinitiatives/vacationrentals/vacationrentalregulations
- Sonoma County Municipal Code - Vacation Rental Licenses: library.municode.com/ca/sonoma_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH4AMBURE_ARTVIIIVARELI
- Vacation Rental Market Analysis: www.modernlivingsonoma.com/2024/02/05/navigate-sonoma-countys-rental-rules-a-must-read-guide/
Important Note: Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the appropriate local authority before starting any STR operations. The City of Sonoma has effectively prohibited new vacation rentals, while Sonoma County maintains a complex but viable permitting system for qualified properties in approved zones.
Sonoma
Market Saturation Index
Photos of Sonoma
Overview of Sonoma
Overview of Sonoma, CA for Short-term Rentals
Sonoma, CA, located in the heart of the renowned Sonoma Valley wine region, offers a compelling destination for short-term rentals. As of the latest census, Sonoma has a population of approximately 11,000 residents. This city provides a picturesque escape, with its historic charm and scenic beauty. It is situated roughly 45 miles north of San Francisco, making it an accessible getaway for both locals and international visitors.
Landmarks and Attractions
-
Sonoma Plaza: The city's historic central square, Sonoma Plaza, is surrounded by boutiques, restaurants, and historic sites. The Plaza is home to the Bear Flag Monument and the Sonoma Barracks, part of the Sonoma State Historic Park. More information can be found here.
-
Mission San Francisco Solano: This historic mission, founded in 1823, is the last of the 21 California missions. Visitors can learn about early Californian history and view original artifacts at the onsite museum. Explore more here.
-
Sonoma Valley Wineries: Sonoma is home to numerous world-class wineries offering tours and tastings. Landmarks such as the Buena Vista Winery, considered California's oldest premium winery, and the modern Jacuzzi Family Vineyards are significant spots for wine enthusiasts. For details on Buena Vista Winery visit here.
-
Farmers' Market: During the summer, the Sonoma Farmers' Market in the Plaza is a vibrant event featuring local produce, crafts, and live music. This makes for an immersive experience in the local culture. More information can be found here.
-
Sonoma TrainTown Railroad: A family-friendly destination featuring a quarter-scale railroad with replicas of historic trains, a miniaturized town, and various amusement rides. Visit their site here.
Sonoma, with its blend of historic charm, scenic beauty, and proximity to San Francisco, offers an appealing setting for short-term rentals. From wine lovers to history buffs and families looking for a picturesque retreat, Sonoma caters to a wide array of interests.