Who issues your permit
- Inside city limits: the city's building department. That includes Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Windsor (a town), Healdsburg, Sebastopol, Sonoma and Cloverdale.
- Unincorporated areas: Permit Sonoma, the County's permit agency. That covers places such as Glen Ellen, Kenwood, Forestville, Guerneville, Monte Rio, Occidental and Bodega Bay, plus rural areas outside the cities.
A mailing address can be misleading: a "Santa Rosa" or "Sebastopol" address may be outside city limits. Check your parcel before you assume.
When is a permit needed?
Rules vary, but as a general pattern, replacing a roof covering or doing structural work usually needs a permit, while small repairs often don't. Fire hazard zone rules can also affect what materials are approved (OSFM). Ask your building department directly, or let your contractor confirm in writing.
Who pulls the permit?
Usually the licensed contractor, in their name. Be cautious if a contractor asks you to pull an "owner-builder" permit for work they're doing; that can shift legal responsibility to you. Verify the contractor's license on CSLB.
Want a local pro to take a look?It's free for homeowners and there's no obligation.
Inspections
Expect at least a final inspection, and sometimes an in-progress check of the deck or underlayment. Keep the signed-off permit with your home records; buyers and insurers may ask for it.
After a disaster
After fires and floods, local agencies sometimes set up expedited permitting. CSLB warns that unlicensed contracting in a declared disaster area is a felony (CSLB).
Need a roofer who handles permits? Request help.
Sources
Sources checked October 18, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Does a roof repair need a permit?
Small repairs often don't, but rules vary by jurisdiction and scope. Ask your building department or Permit Sonoma.
How do I know if I'm in city limits?
Check your parcel on your county or city's online maps, or call your city's planning or building department.