Ordinance Permitting Motion Picture and Television Production, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems, and Adoption of a Filming Operations Permit Policy

The City of Sonoma is implementing a regulatory update to govern commercial filming and drone activities within its jurisdiction. This action involves the repeal and replacement of Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 7.40, which covers permits for motion picture and television production, and the introduction of Chapter 7.42, specifically addressing Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The initiative includes the adoption of a new Filming Operations Permit Policy designed to establish clear administrative guidelines for the application, approval, and operational compliance of filming and drone activities. The project is managed by the Community Development Director, Jennifer Gates, and is located in Sonoma, California. To ensure regulatory compliance, the City has filed a Notice of Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), asserting that the ordinance adoption will not have a significant environmental impact. This legislative action is focused on creating a standardized permitting process and a policy framework for consistent enforcement and oversight of production teams and drone operators.