Sonora, CA

Sonora limits construction equipment operation to specific daytime hours, with progressively shorter windows on weekends and holidays. These restrictions apply to all construction equipment within city limits.

The City of Sonora regulates noise primarily through its construction hours restrictions and general nuisance provisions. While the city does not publish specific residential quiet hours with decibel thresholds, noise complaints are handled through the Sonora Police Department and general nuisance abatement ordinances.

Short-term rental operators in Sonora must maintain a valid Transient Use Permit, business license, fire inspection certification, and proof of solid waste service. Permits are subject to annual renewal and compliance with neighborhood compatibility standards.

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.

Sonora designates Fire Hazard Severity Zones and requires property owners to maintain defensible space around buildings. Zone A (0–30 feet) requires full vegetation clearance, while Zone B (30–100 feet) requires fuel reduction. These requirements apply to all backyard fire activity and property maintenance.

Open burning is generally prohibited within Sonora city limits under Municipal Code Chapter 8.32. Residents who wish to burn must obtain a burn permit ($60/year) from the Sonora Fire Department, which includes a site inspection. Recreational fires must comply with California Fire Code setback requirements — at least 25 feet from any structure.

Sonora enforces a 72-hour continuous parking limit on all city streets. Vehicles exceeding this limit may be cited and towed. Additional restrictions apply near intersections and for commercial or oversized vehicles.

Sonora has strict parking rules for oversized vehicles and trailers. Trailers may not park on city streets for more than 12 hours. Vehicles taller than 6 feet are prohibited within 100 feet of any city intersection. All vehicles face a 72-hour continuous parking limit on public streets.

Sonora requires dead or dying grass to be cut to a maximum of 2 inches under its weed abatement and defensible space ordinances. The Fire Chief has authority over weed and debris removal. Ornamental vegetation is exempt as long as it does not obstruct sidewalks or streets.

Sonora allows residents to keep chickens and small livestock on residential land, with density limits based on lot size. Parcels under half an acre may keep up to 3 small non-hoofed animals. Roosters are strictly prohibited. Livestock must be kept outdoors in a clean manner, with a minimum 25-foot setback for animal structures. Limited egg sales are permitted from the parcel.

Operating a business from a residence in Sonora requires a Home Occupation Permit under Municipal Code Chapter 17.59 and a Business License with an Occupancy Permit. The city inspects for building and fire safety compliance before issuing permits.