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Public Health Rules in Sonoma County, CA (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Sonoma County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Sonoma County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Restaurant Grade Cards

Sonoma County posts a color-coded pass, conditional-pass, or closed placard at every inspected food facility after each routine inspection, visible to patrons from the entrance.

Sonoma County Restaurant Placard Program

Some Restrictions

Sonoma County Code § 14-3-060

Upon completion of a routine inspection or reinspection, the health officer shall determine the appropriate placard to post at the food facility, shall notify the food facility operator of the intended posting of the placard, and shall provide the operator an opportunity to respond at that point. After the opportunity to respond, the health officer shall post the appropriate placard at every fo...

Food Handler Certification

Anyone involved with a microenterprise home kitchen operation in unincorporated Sonoma County must obtain a Food Handler Certification under the county's MEHKO ordinance, on top of the operator's separate food safety manager certification.

Sonoma County MEHKO Food Handler Rule

Some Restrictions

Sonoma County Code § 14-3-070(e)(18)

(17)The MEHKO Operator shall successfully pass an approved and accredited food safety manager certification examination.(18)Any person(s) involved with the MEHKO shall obtain a Food Handler Certification.

Public Health Rules by City in Sonoma County

2 cities in Sonoma County have their own public health rules rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.

All Sonoma County ordinances

See every category we cover for Sonoma County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Sonoma County Ordinance Hub →