Fence Ordinance Update; File No. ORD25-0006

Sonoma County is implementing Ordinance No. 6547 to amend Chapter 26 of its Zoning Code by establishing clear, objective standards for fences and similar structures based on height, materials, and design, streamlining the permitting process in residential zoning districts—AR, RR, R1, R2, R3—and the Recreation and Visitor-Serving Commercial (K) district. The update aims to reduce administrative burdens by minimizing discretionary review for compliant fences while ensuring consistent, enforceable regulations aligned with the Sonoma County General Plan. Qualifying agricultural fences are exempted from design review requirements, reinforcing consistency with land use goals. The ordinance was approved on December 16, 2025, and publicly noticed on December 22, 2025, with a posted notice period extending through January 22, 2026. While the action triggers a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemption under Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15303(e), necessitating the filing of a Notice of Exemption and payment of an environmental fee totaling $4,123.50, it is not a procurement or contract action. No federal acquisition regulation clauses, contract types, pricing structures, or procurement-specific clauses such as evaluation factors, delivery schedules, inspection criteria, or contractor representations apply, as this is a regulatory update administered by the County of Sonoma. Administrative responsibilities and contact points are centered on the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office and Permit Sonoma staff, with no identified contracting officers, technical representatives, or federal payment systems involved. The place of performance is countywide, and all compliance documentation, including proof of payment and CDFW determinations, must be submitted through the County’s established channels.