Sonora Permit Requirements Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Heavy RestrictionsKey Facts
- Permit Required
- Transient Use Permit (annual renewal)
- Primary Residence Only
- Yes — must be operator's primary residence
- ADU Rentals
- Prohibited
- Business License
- Required
- Transient Occupancy Tax
- 12%
- Local Contact
- Must be available 24/7 and on-site within 30 minutes
- Fire Inspection
- Required before permit issuance
- Signage
- No signs indicating rental use allowed
The Short Version
Sonora requires a Transient Use Permit for all short-term rentals, limited to primary residences only. Operators must also obtain a business license, pass a fire inspection, collect a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax, and designate a 24/7 local contact person who can arrive within 30 minutes. ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals.
Full Breakdown
The City of Sonora regulates short-term rentals under Municipal Code Chapter 17.64 (Transient Residential Use). A separate Transient Use Permit is required for each parcel operating as a short-term rental, and permits must be renewed annually. Only the operator's primary residence qualifies — investment properties and ADUs are not eligible. Operators must obtain a business license, pass a fire safety inspection (covering smoke/CO alarms, fire extinguishers, visible address, and defensible space compliance), collect and remit a 12% Transient Occupancy Tax, and designate a local contact person available by phone 24/7 who can be physically present within 30 minutes. On-site parking must be provided when possible; if unavailable, a maximum of two vehicles may park on-street. Guests cannot park boats, RVs, or vehicles in unpaved areas. No signage indicating rental availability is permitted.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Operating a short-term rental without a Transient Use Permit is unlawful. Violations may result in fines, permit revocation, and enforcement action under the general penalty provisions of the Sonora Municipal Code. Failure to collect and remit the 12% TOT is also subject to penalties. A 24/7 complaint hotline is available at (209) 299-4442.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent out my investment property as an Airbnb?
Can I rent out my ADU on Airbnb?
What tax do I need to collect?
Is there a complaint hotline?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Sonora
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