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Archives: FAQs

How much are City employees paid?

Compensation data for the City of Sonoma can be found at the State Controllers Office. For the City’s current salary schedule, visit the salary and benefits page.

Can chain stores and franchises locate in Sonoma?

The City has a formula business ordinance which places certain restrictions and requirements on chain and franchise businesses.  Learn more about the formula business ordinance and contact the Planning Department for more information.

Is there any way to expedite my building permit?

FAST START Plan Check is a way to “fast track” the processing of your building permit application so you can get your project underway quickly. We recognize that for many projects, time is of the essence.  Using FAST START can significantly reduce the turnaround on your plan check, enabling you to get going faster.  There’s no … Continued

How are recreation services provided in Sonoma?

The City of Sonoma does not operate its own Recreation Department.  Instead, traditional recreational and community services programs  are provided by local non-profit organizations with the support of the City.  Find information about the recreation, parks and community services available in Sonoma on our Recreation page.

How can I get a copy of my accident report?

Call the Police Department at 707-996-3602.  Provide the Report Number, date and contact information. You must be named as a party involved in the accident or an insurer of the named party to obtain a copy of the report. Please bring photo ID when picking up the report.

Is the City’s water affected by the fires or rain run-off?

The City of Sonoma’s water supply and distribution system was not compromised by the fires.  Sonoma’s primary source of water is supplied by the Sonoma County Water Agency.  The Water Agency pumps water that is naturally filtered through rock, sand and gravel from wells about 100 feet below the bed of the Russian River and … Continued

Are sandbags available during floods?

If flood alerts are issued for Sonoma Creek and its tributaries, the City will have a limited number of sandbags available free of charge during normal business hours.  Visit our sandbag instructions page for details.

Is City Hall closed on holidays?

City Hall is closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Day – January 1 (or closest Friday or Monday if it falls on a weekend) Martin Luther King Day – Third Monday in January Presidents’ Day – Third Monday in February Memorial Day – Last Monday in May Independence Day – July 4 (or closest Friday or Monday if it … Continued

How will winter rains affect burned areas and areas downstream?

Some properties within or downstream of the burn areas may be at increased risk for flash flooding, mudflows and debris flows during periods of intense rainfall. Specific areas of risk have been identified by the County on a Post-Fire Hazard Assessment Map.  You can learn more about the map in the News on sonomacountyrecovers.org. Visit … Continued

Are fire recovery resources available for local businesses?

The Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce is conducting one-on-one outreach to local businesses to assess needs, and is also collecting information on available resources for businesses affecting by the fires, including employment issues and economic injury as well as direct fire damage.  The Sonoma County Economic Development Board is providing business resources on their fire … Continued

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