Street Parking Limits: Rohnert Park vs Santa Rosa

Can I leave my car parked on a county road in front of my house indefinitely?

No. Sonoma County Code Chapter 18, Article III prohibits parking any vehicle on a street, roadway, or parking lot in the unincorporated area for more than 72 consecutive hours. Move it before the 72 hours run out to avoid citation or tow.

Who do I call to report a vehicle parked too long?

Report vehicles parked over 72 hours on unincorporated county roads to the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. Abandoned vehicles on private property should be reported to Permit Sonoma Code Enforcement.

Can I leave my car parked on a Santa Rosa street in front of my house for a week while I travel?

No. Santa Rosa City Code Title 11 limits on-street parking to 72 consecutive hours. After 72 hours the vehicle can be cited and towed under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k). Ask a neighbor to move it or store it off-street if you'll be gone longer.

Does moving my car a few feet reset the 72-hour clock?

No. California courts have long held that the vehicle must actually be driven and re-parked - inching it forward or back does not restart the 72-hour clock. The Santa Rosa FAQ explicitly says the vehicle must be 'moved at least once every 72 hours.'

How do I report a vehicle parked too long on my street?

Call Santa Rosa Police non-emergency dispatch at 707-543-3200 to report parking violations including vehicles exceeding the 72-hour limit. You can also report through the City's online code-enforcement portal.