Important Schedule Change to In-Person Services

Friday In-Person Service Is Moving Online

Since 2020, Permit Sonoma has expanded digital access and now customers can complete most tasks without traveling to the office. Effective October 2, 2026, Permit Sonoma's in-person customer service counter will be closed on Fridays as part of a 6-month pilot program to use staff time more efficiently and reduce permit wait times. Staff will continue working during regular business hours, and online services remain available. Building inspections and appointments will continue on Fridays during regular business hours.

Why the Schedule Is Changing

Customer service counter needs have changed since Permit Sonoma has moved from paper-based processes to virtual services. Average weekly visits to the Permit Center have declined from 658 in fiscal year 2018–19 to 242 in fiscal year 2025–26, a decrease of approximately 63 percent. Friday visits have been decreasing at an even greater rate. The closure of the customer service counter on Fridays will give staff a dedicated day to process applications and address outstanding work, rather than dividing their time between permits and counter coverage.

Online Services

Most Permit Sonoma services can be accessed online via our Permits Online system. Customers may also use Permit Answers, a searchable collection of frequently asked customer service questions monitored by Permit Sonoma staff. If our FAQ database does not already contain the information you need, you can submit an individual question that may benefit future customers. Staff review and answer submitted questions within two business days.

In-Person Services

Building inspections and meetings by appointment will continue on Fridays. Customers are welcome to walk-in or make an appointment to visit our customer service counter during our regular in-person hours Monday through Thursday.

In-person Permit Center Service Desk Hours of Operation as of October 2, 2026

Phone Operator Hours

Holiday Closure Calendar

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