Filming & Production in Sonoma, CA (2026)
2 verified filming & production rules for Sonoma, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Location Permits
The City of Sonoma requires anyone shooting motion pictures, television, digital media or commercial still photography on public or private property to get a location permit from the city manager, pay a fee, and carry insurance. Sonoma Municipal Code Section 7.40.040 exempts only news media, family videos, studio productions, and city-sponsored shoots.
City of Sonoma Location Filming Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsSonoma Municipal Code §§ 7.40.040, 7.40.050, 7.40.090
No person shall use any public or private property, facility or residence for the purpose of taking motion pictures, television, digital media or commercial still photography without first applying for and receiving a permit from the city manager or designee. No such permit shall be issued until the permit applicant has paid the application fee and the use and service charge required in connect...
Student Filming
Student filmmakers in the City of Sonoma still need a location filming permit like any commercial production, but Sonoma Municipal Code Section 7.40.070 lets the city council set a discounted permit fee for student films because of their noncommercial nature.
City of Sonoma Student Film Permit Fee Rules
Some RestrictionsSonoma Municipal Code §§ 7.40.030, 7.40.070
“Student films” shall mean motion picture, television, or still photography produced to satisfy a course or curriculum requirement at an educational institution. The student must supply proof that he/she is currently enrolled in an educational institution. ... A permit application processing fee in an amount established by city council resolution shall be paid by the applicant at the time the a...
Looking for Sonoma County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Sonoma city rules.
Filming & Production in Sonoma County →