If you’re planning a vacation in Sonoma County, you might be considering staying in a vacation rental. However, not all areas of the county allow vacation rentals. In fact, there are specific locations in unincorporated Sonoma County where short-term rentals are not permitted.
What are Vacation Rentals?
Vacation rentals refer to homes or properties that are rented out for short periods of time, usually less than 30 days. They’ve become popular alternatives to hotels, offering travelers more space and privacy.
Where Are Vacation Rentals Not Allowed?
According to the Sonoma County Code, short-term rentals (defined as less than 30 days) are not allowed in the following areas:
Sonoma Coast
The entire Sonoma Coast is off-limits to vacation rentals. This includes the towns of Jenner, Bodega Bay, Sea Ranch, and Timber Cove.
Russian River Area
In the Russian River area, which includes Guerneville and Monte Rio, vacation rentals are allowed only in designated zones. These zones include:
- Monte Rio Recreation and Park District
- Rio Nido Roadway Corridor
- Northwood Lodge Area
- Sunshine Estates Area
- Vacation Beach Area
- Summerhome Park Area
- Camp Rose Roadway Corridor (up to 1/4 mile from Hwy 116)
If you plan on renting a property in the Russian River area outside of these designated zones, you may be subject to fines.
Other Areas
In addition to the Sonoma Coast and Russian River area, there are other parts of unincorporated Sonoma County where vacation rentals are not allowed. These include:
- The town of Kenwood
- The town of Glen Ellen
- Unincorporated areas adjacent to the city of Sonoma
- Unincorporated areas adjacent to the city of Healdsburg
Why Are Vacation Rentals Not Allowed in Some Areas?
The restrictions on vacation rentals in certain parts of Sonoma County are in place to protect the character and quality of life in those areas. The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors has received complaints from residents who feel that vacation rentals disrupt their neighborhoods, create noise and parking issues, and drive up housing prices.
How to Find a Legal Vacation Rental
If you’re looking for a vacation rental in Sonoma County, it’s important to make sure it’s legal. You can check the Sonoma County Permit & Resource Management Department’s website for a list of permitted vacation rentals.
In addition, many vacation rental websites, such as Airbnb and VRBO, have filters that allow you to search only for properties that are legally permitted.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Sonoma County and want to stay in a vacation rental, make sure you’re aware of the restrictions on short-term rentals in certain areas. By doing your research and booking a legal property, you can ensure a peaceful and enjoyable stay in this beautiful part of California.