Sonora requires encroachment permits for work within the public right-of-way including sidewalks, streets, and alleys. Permits are obtained through the Public Works Department at 209-532-2922.
Encroachment permits are required when any construction, landscaping, or other activity encroaches on public sidewalks, streets, alleys, or rights-of-way in Sonora. The Public Works Department processes these permits. Activities requiring encroachment permits include utility connections, driveway construction, sidewalk modifications, temporary street closures, and placement of objects in the right-of-way. Loading and unloading exemptions exist for brief periods (under 3 minutes for passengers, under 20 minutes for freight). Outdoor dining permits under Ordinance 868 address restaurant use of sidewalk space separately.
Working in the right-of-way without an encroachment permit may result in stop-work orders, fines, and requirement to restore disturbed areas.
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See how Sonora's encroachment permits rules stack up against other locations.
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