Special Event Permits

Periodic Special Events Zoning Code Update

As of June 9, 2026, the following updates to County Code Chapter 26 (Zoning Regulations) governing periodic special events will be in effect:

• The maximum number of allowed attendees for all periodic special events is 2,500. Events that occur both on private property and within the public right-of-way are not subject to the attendee cap of 2,500.
• Periodic special events held 30 or more days apart must obtain separate ministerial permits.
• Refer to events on private property as “periodic special events”. 

The following updates reflect current practices for periodic special events: 

• Periodic special events may occur no more than four times within a two-year period.
• Courtesy public notices are provided to neighbors of a proposed event site after ministerial permit issuance.

On this page:

• Types of Special Events
• Special Events Permit
• Procedure
• Building Permit
• Filming
• Fire Prevention Review
• Food Permit
• Wastewater Disposal
• Community Event Organizer Permit

Below is a list of the most common types of special events. There may be other types that are not listed.

• Agriculture Promotion & Winery Events (Tastings, tours, etc.)
• Athletic Events (e.g.: Walkathons, runs, marathons, trail rides, bicycle races, rodeos, triathlons)
• Camping
• Car Shows
• Concerts
• Corporate Events
• Fairs & Festivals
• Farmer’s Markets
• Filming (movies, shows, commercials, etc.)
• Flea Markets
• Galas/Fundraisers
• Parades
• Weddings/Private Parties

A special events permit is required for events that include one or more of the following characteristics:

• Use of public roads, sidewalks, or other public rights-of-way
• Live amplified music
• An admission fee
• Events lasting more than one day or extending beyond 7:00 AM–11:00 PM
• Overnight accommodations
• Events occurring more than once within a 30-day period
• Public advertising or promotion
• Food service, vendors, or cooking booths
• Temporary structures, tents, or special effects

Private Property: Special events on private property may require zoning review based on event characteristics (e.g., amplified music, admission fees, multi-day events, etc.). A courtesy notice shall be posted on the property and sent by mail to all properties and property owners within 300 feet of the parcel(s) on which the event will be held at least 10 days in advance of the event.

Application Deadline: Special Event Permit applications must be submitted at least 60 days before your event to allow adequate time for processing.

Apply for permit electronically via Permits Online »

1. Submit an online application at least 60 days before your event.
2. Within 30 days of payment, the application will be reviewed for completeness and the applicant will be notified of any additional information required. The application will be sent to applicable divisions of Permit Sonoma, County departments, and local agencies for review and comment.
3. Once the application is deemed complete, the applicant will receive a final determination letter.
4. (Applicable to events on private property) After permit issuance, a courtesy notice will be posted on the property and sent by mail to all properties and property owners within 300 feet of the parcel(s) on which the event will be held.

Temporary Structure Building Permit

This permit type is required, in addition to the special events permit, if your event includes either of the following:

• A tent 400 square feet or larger,
• A temporary structure with both a raised floor and a roof

For application requirements:

• Email: PermitSonoma@sonomacounty.gov
• Visit the Building Plan Check cubicle in the Permit Center
• Apply for permit electronically via Permits Online

Find out about permits needed for filming in unincorporated Sonoma County.

More Information: Filming in Sonoma County »

Fire Prevention Review for Special Events
Fire Prevention review is part of the special events permitting process for events in unincorporated Sonoma County. Fire Prevention requirements, forms, and inspections will be coordinated during special events permit review. Event organizers are responsible for complying with all state and local codes

Pyrotechnics & Special Effects
A review and approval for the public display of fireworks and special effects is conducted by the Fire Prevention Division with the primary objective of increasing safety for the public, pyrotechnic crew, and fire personnel.

Vendor & Cooking Booth Inspections
The Fire Prevention Division performs the required catering vendor and cooking booth inspections at special and managed events.

The County of Sonoma’s Health Services Department’s Food Safety Program issues permits for events that involve food service, catering vendors, and/or cooking booths.

More Information: Food Safety Program »

The On-Site Wastewater Disposal Systems Criteria policy (PDF) determines wastewater flows and the use of portable toilets for special events.

More Information: Well & Septic section »

The County of Sonoma’s Health Services Department’s Environmental Health Division issues community event organizer permits for the individual responsible for facilities or equipment shared by two or more food vendors at a community event.

More Information: Community Event Organizer Permit »