Sonoma County Short-Term Rental Host Guide
Welcome to SCCH
The Sonoma County Coalition of Hosts is here to help responsible hosts navigate short-term rental rules with confidence. We support community-minded hosting through education, advocacy, and shared resources for property owners across Sonoma County and its cities.
Whether you are starting in unincorporated Sonoma County or inside a city like Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Windsor, Sonoma, Sebastopol, Cloverdale, Rohnert Park, or Cotati, the first step is the same: confirm your jurisdiction and review the local rules that apply to your property. To confirm whether your address is in a city or in unincorporated Sonoma County, use this county map:
Check your address on the Sonoma County jurisdiction map
Start Here
Use the links below to begin the process based on where your property is located. Sonoma County’s official guidance says the requirements differ between unincorporated areas and city jurisdictions, so this is the best place to begin.
- Unincorporated Sonoma County: Permit Sonoma Vacation Rentals & Licensing
- Unincorporated Sonoma County: Vacation Rental Regulations
- Santa Rosa STR Rules
- Petaluma Property / Land Use Permits
- Windsor STR Regulations
- Sebastopol Vacation Rental Information
Getting Oriented
If your property is in unincorporated Sonoma County, you will work through Permit Sonoma’s permit and licensing process. Current guidance includes a certified property manager requirement, a transient vacation rental permit, a TOT number, and a vacation rental license.
If your property is inside city limits, the city’s planning, zoning, and business licensing rules will determine whether and how you can host. Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Windsor, and Sebastopol all publish their own local short-term rental information.
Local Resource Links
Unincorporated Sonoma County
Permit Sonoma currently provides the clearest starting point for hosted rentals and vacation rentals in unincorporated areas. Hosted rentals require a zoning permit, and applicants are asked to submit a site plan, floor plan, septic documentation if relevant, and TOT registration materials.
Cities in Sonoma County
Each city has its own rules, so always verify directly with the local jurisdiction before applying. Some cities may allow hosted stays while placing more limits on whole-home rentals or the number of rental days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I start?
Start by confirming whether your property is in unincorporated Sonoma County or inside a city limit. That one detail determines which rules, permits, and tax registrations apply.
Do all Sonoma County properties qualify?
No. Sonoma County guidance shows that eligibility depends on zoning, property type, and in some cases whether the property is served by septic or falls under other restrictions.
What is the difference between a hosted rental and a vacation rental?
A hosted rental is typically a room or sleeping area in a home where the owner remains in residence, while a vacation rental is usually a whole-home rental for 30 days or less.
Do I need a permit?
In unincorporated Sonoma County, yes, hosted rentals require a zoning permit and vacation rentals require the County’s permit and licensing process. In cities, the answer depends on local ordinances and business licensing rules.
Can the rules change?
Yes. Local regulations can change through county ordinances, city code updates, or policy changes, so it is important to verify the latest requirements before applying.
Disclaimer
Laws and local requirements can change at any time. Before applying, always verify the latest rules with the appropriate county or city agency to make sure your property still qualifies and that you are using the current application process.
