Signage Rules: Rohnert Park vs Sonoma
How do signage rules rules compare between Rohnert Park, CA and Sonoma, CA?
Rohnert Park and Sonoma have similar restriction levels.
Rohnert Park, CA
Sonoma County
Sonoma County Code § 26-88-121 limits home-occupation signage to a single attached, non-illuminated sign of no more than two (2) square feet. The dwelling's residential character must be preserved.
View full Rohnert Park rules →Sonoma, CA
Sonoma County
Under SMC §19.50.040, a home occupation in the City of Sonoma may not display window signs, advertising signs, merchandise, products, or stock in trade visible from the exterior; the City Planner may allow one name plate not exceeding one (1) square foot.
View full Sonoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rohnert Park | Sonoma |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Sonoma County Code § 26-88-121 | - |
| Max Sign Size | 2 square feet | - |
| Number Allowed | One (1) | - |
| Mounting | Must be attached (no free-standing) | - |
| Illumination | Prohibited | - |
| Maximum sign size | - | 1 sq ft (name plate only) |
| Illuminated signs? | - | Prohibited |
| Window/merchandise displays? | - | Prohibited |
| Discretion | - | Name plate allowed only by City Planner approval |
| City vs. county | - | Stricter than unincorporated county (2 sq ft allowed) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rohnert Park FAQ
Can I put a small lit sign by my driveway advertising my home business?
No. Sonoma County Code § 26-88-121 only allows one attached, non-illuminated sign of 2 square feet or less. Free-standing driveway signs and any illumination are prohibited for home occupations.
What about a window decal or sandwich board on the day I see clients?
The ordinance limits signage to one attached 2-sq-ft sign. A permanent window decal could count toward that single sign; a sandwich board would be a second sign and is not allowed under § 26-88-121.
Sonoma FAQ
Can I put a small business sign on my mailbox or front door in Sonoma?
Only with City Planner approval, and only as a single name plate not exceeding 1 square foot. SMC §19.50.040 prohibits any other home-occupation signage on the premises, including window decals, A-frames, or yard signs.
Can the name plate be lit at night?
No. SMC §19.50.040 forbids changes to the residential character through lighting or signs, so the name plate must be non-illuminated.
Are open/closed flags or sandwich-board signs allowed for a home business?
No. Window signs, advertising signs, and merchandise displays identifying the home occupation are expressly prohibited under SMC §19.50.040(B). Violations are cited under SMC Ch. 1.28.
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