Frequently Asked Questions

Both ADUs and Junior ADUs (JADUs) must be on a permanent foundation and have a separate entrance, a kitchen facility, and living area that is separate from the primary dwelling unit. However, a JADU only requires a smaller "efficiency kitchen". An ADU must have its own bathroom, while a JADU may have its own bathroom or share the bathroom in the primary dwelling unit. ADUs are allowed on lots with multifamily or single-family dwellings, while JADUs are only allowed on lots with single-family dwellings. ADUs may be conversions of existing space, attached or detached, while JADUs are only allowed as conversions of existing space. The maximum size of a JADU is 500 square feet, while the maximum size of an ADU is 850 square feet for studios and 1-bedroom units and 1,000 square feet for multi-bedroom units.

The City maintains a Zoning Map (PDF), which designates zoning districts throughout the City. In addition, zoning district information explaining your setback and site coverage requirements are in the "Development Standards" section of the City's Zoning Code. These requirements can be found in Section 17.10.020, Development Standards Table. See Zoning and Allowed ADU Types (PDF).

ADUs can be built by-right in any zone that allows residential uses. ADUs are not subject to lot size requirements, density limitations, or growth-control measures. JADUs can be built within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling by-right in any zone that allows single-family residential uses. This is subject to different rules and requirements depending on the zone.  

See the ADU Development Standards flyer for a summary of requirements for each type of ADU.   

ADUs must adhere to the lot coverage requirements prescribed by the underlying zoning for the lot. Additionally, for ADUs larger than 800 square feet, the ADU together with the primary residence cannot cover more than 50 percent of the lot area.  However, ADUs of 800 square feet or less are not subject to maximum lot coverage requirements. Internal conversions are exempt from lot coverage requirements. 

For JADUs, the owner must record a deed restriction that requires the owner to occupy either the primary dwelling or the JADU. There are no owner occupancy requirements for other ADUs. 

An existing garage can be converted into an ADU or JADU by making the garage space livable in accordance with applicable California Residential Code standards. At minimum, a garage conversion ADU or JADU must include cooking facilities, heating, sanitation (JADUs may use primary dwelling), hot and cold water, separate entrances, fireproofing (ADU), egress window, vapor barrier, and fire sprinklers where applicable. Email the City Building Division to determine the requirements for building an ADU or JADU in a garage.

If your house shares a water line with a neighbor, your property will need to be disconnected from the shared service and a new water service will need to be installed from the City main to the property to serve the primary residence, and the ADU. You may need to upsize your existing lateral water line to serve both your primary dwelling and the new ADU. The water lateral will need to be constructed per City standards and a new water meter for the ADU installed. See water lateral schematic (PDF). 

Electrical panels and sub-panels, also known as circuit breaker panels/sub-panels or service panels/sub-panels, must be accessible to the ADU and JADU. Problems can arise if the ADU or JADU occupant cannot access the electrical panel or sub-panel when a circuit is overloaded, or a fault occurs. Electrical sub-panels serve as a waypoint between the main electric panel and branch circuits further down the electrical line and can be installed in a secondary location on your property to be accessible to the ADU or JADU.

Begin by looking for a design professional who can help design your ADU. A design professional could be an architect, designer, design/build firm, or modular/prefabrication company. Once you have met with the design professional and shown them your design ideas and lot limitations, they can help draw up preliminary designs for your ADU or JADU. The ADU Center is a local nonprofit that provides support to homeowners interested in building an ADU or JADU. Learn more about the resources they provide. 

Most projects take one to two years to complete, but there are different aspects of the project that can change that timeline. Typically, it takes owners up to three months to hire the key players on their team, and the following one to six months to develop plans and submit a complete ADU or JADU application. The number of rounds of review and your team’s timely response to City comments will dictate how quickly the team can start construction. Traditional construction of an ADU or JADU will take between six months and one year. 

A detailed fee estimate will be provided to you after you submit a complete application. For budget purposes, however, you can expect to pay 3 to 5% of your overall construction costs toward fees. While the City does charge building, planning and engineering fees, the City does not collect development impact fees for ADUs and JADUs.   

You can request a delay in code compliance, subject to certain findings. See Section 17.07.020.X.12 of the City’s Municipal Code for further details. 

Yes, legalizing existing, unpermitted ADUs or JADUs is encouraged! Email the Building Division for more information about requirements for getting an unpermitted ADU legalized. 

The Building team are available to answer your questions. 

Yes, as long as they are dog and child friendly.

For safety purposes, this event is limited to dogs only.

Demo schedules will be posted a week prior to the event date.

• Furthest Treat Catcher
• Cute Tick Talent Contest
• Dog/Person Look Alike
• Musical Mats

Not on site, but there will be adoptable animals to meet!

• Kona Ice
• Good Vybes Lemonade
• Jamerikan Jerk
• Nothing Bundt Cakes
• The Spot
• MamaZara Empanadas
• HopMonk Tavern
• Lovely Coffee Co.

Yes!

Yes!

Yes!

Email Mickey Zeldes or call 707-584-3057 for an application.

We are not allowing drive-thru restaurants in the downtown developer for a few reasons:

• The goal of Downtown Rohnert Park is a development centered around people, not cars. Having drive-thru restaurants would increase traffic in the development.
• Drive-thru restaurants take up a lot of space with drive-thru lanes and signboards. We want to prioritize that space for the public through plazas, seating, walking paths, and other people-friendly amenities.
• The increased traffic and idling of cars would add significant greenhouse gas emissions, which would go against the goal of building a walkable Downtown Rohnert Park centered around people... not the automobile.

The final design and layout of Downtown Rohnert Park will be decided when the City partners with a developer.

However, our conceptual site maps incorporate a town square that could support our wonderful Community Services events in the future at downtown Rohnert Park!

One unfortunate issue in recent months is that some of the trees on the property are in poor health. Rohnert Park expects that 33 trees will need to be removed to ensure the public's safety when on the property.

The city was not pleased that the prior owner cut down so many trees before deciding to not proceed with the project and will remove trees only when absolutely necessary. The city's arborist has determined that 20 Coast Redwoods have declined beyond recovery and will need to be removed at some point. Plenty of new trees will be planted as the downtown is built.

See the Rohnert Park Tree Map.

We're building housing for several reasons. One is that this region and the state need more housing to make it more affordable. Increasing housing is a top priority for the City Council. Additionally, state law requires cities to build housing if we develop public property, and 25% of the units need to be affordable.

Rohnert Park residents have long asked for more non-chain retail and restaurants. Concentrating those non-chain businesses in the downtown area will turn the 30-acre site into a walkable downtown. Park once and spend your next few hours wandering around the square, poking into new shops and restaurants, or simply enjoying your choice of beverage on the square.

During the past year, the City has worked with Urban Design Consultants to determine the optimal places to put housing, retail, and hotel. The Hotel was situated near the SMART station as an easy way for folks getting off the train to travel to the hotel. The Achilles Heel of public transportation has always been the "first and last mile," meaning people often must drive to public transit, which defeats the purpose of using public transit. By placing the hotel close to the SMART stop, people only need to walk a short distance to the hotel instead of driving or relying on a ride-sharing service.

These designs are conceptual and focused towards showing developers the land uses (where retail, housing, and hotel could go) as well as highlighting how we want the shops and residential units to interact with the street and environment (Form Based Code). The actual design and color of the buildings may well change, as are the amenities (benches, trees, greenery) surrounding the retail and residential are subject to change. Check out the “Form Based Code” FAQ section to get a glimpse of Form Based Code in action.

Hotels can be an extremely valuable addition to a downtown area. They bring leisure visitors to the heart of a community. They can fill a market need by accommodating visitors to nearby businesses and institutions such as Sonoma State and the Casino. Hotels can generate sales for nearby retail and service businesses and capture tourism dollars in the community. Hotels also generate significant tax revenues while creating many new jobs. 

Developments like this can easily cost $200 million or more. Neither the City nor developers have that kind of money to instantly pay for the development. Cities rely on developers and investors to shoulder upfront financial risk of paying for a development of this magnitude. The majority of the money to pay for the development comes from the developer and their investors. Additional funding comes from federal, state, and local grants and loans, all of which take time to apply for and receive.

On October 24, 2023 we presented the conceptual layout of Downtown Rohnert Park, with 60,000 to 120,000 square feet of new retail, 300 to 500 housing units, of which 25% will be affordable, a boutique hotel, and central to the entire project, a large community square.

On November 1, 2023, the City will send a Request for Qualifications to the development community. This signaled that we are prepared to partner with a developer to begin work on Downtown Rohnert Park. On November 30th, we will host developers at the Downtown Site to answer any questions and allow the development community to see the site for themselves.

Downtown Rohnert Park will have something for everyone. For those who enjoy new and unique food and beverage places, you can get there along the walkable blocks and streets with scattered greenery and high-class amenities (i.e., benches, playgrounds, art). For those who want to slow down and enjoy the scenery, those same walkable blocks and streets will lead to pocket parks and a central green space/community square. Others may want to try out downtown residential living, taking advantage of the SMART train Rohnert Park Station being a stone's throw away.

Put simply: a great downtown is a place centered around people and the environment, not the automobile.

• Market Rate Housing. We plan on having between 300 and 375 market rate housing units. Having housing on the property is important, because it will help pay for the affordable housing and the retail establishments in the downtown. Also, we will need to have at least 300 housing units on the property so we can comply with the Surplus Land Act.
• Affordable Housing. We plan on having between 100 and 125 affordable housing units. Affordable housing is another critical piece of the downtown. The Surplus Land Act requires the City to make a percentage of housing units affordable before we can partner with a qualified developer; adding between 100 and 125 units of affordable housing to our community meets the state's intent on delivering more affordable housing and meets our City Council's goals of developing a vibrant community and improving infrastructure and neighborhoods.
• Hotel. There are benefits to having a hotel at the downtown property. Tourism supports the local economy by increasing the money spent at nearby stores and other attractions and generating taxes from visitors. Having the hotel next to the train station allows visitors to take the SMART train from Sonoma County Airport or the Bay Area, thereby reducing traffic in and around Rohnert Park.
• Retail. This is the engine that will drive downtown Rohnert Park. Our 2022 Retail Market Analysis states that we can support up to 140,000 square feet of new retail and restaurants. Based on community feedback, we will look for developers who can deliver unique casual and fine dining options, along with brewpubs, entertainment venues, and gift/clothing shops.
• Parks and Open Spaces. Key to our downtown will be community parks, pocket parks, and of course, a central community square. Rohnert Park boasts outstanding community events throughout the year, and we are looking forward to having those community events in the downtown community square.

We asked two downtown questions in our 2023 Community Survey: what is important in a downtown, and what types of businesses should be in a downtown?

When asked what is important in a downtown, we found that a majority of people want:

• new restaurants
• places to sit and socialize
• more outdoor events and festivals
• greenery and open spaces
• a downtown that is walkable.

When asked what types of businesses people want to see, we found that the significant majority of people want:

• casual restaurants
• entertainment venues
• gift and clothing shops
• fine dining
• brewpubs

The goal is to make this a walkable downtown where each building connects and blends together - regardless of whether the building is a two-bedroom apartment, a hot new restaurant, or a fun and quirky retail business.

That is what Form-Based Code is - designing buildings and areas that are inviting, appealing, and work with the existing area and landscape. The following are two examples of traditional "zoning" and Form-Based Code.

Traditional Zoning vs Form Based Code - Richmond, CA

Traditional Zoning vs Form-Based Code - Savannah, CA

Traditional zoning is more concerned with the function of the building (i.e. what it will do). This is one of the reasons why our (U.S.) cities have retail in one place, industrial and manufacturing in another place, and residential in another place. Learn more about U.S. zoning and impress your friends and family!

Form-based code focuses on the look and feel of the buildings. City blocks should be walkable and filled with interesting things to look at, from nice park benches and trees to the facades of the buildings themselves.

If you are interested and want to learn more about Form-Based Code and start your journey in becoming an urban planner, check out the great introduction video!

The downtown project will increase traffic in the area. We will take numerous steps to minimize the impact, such as:

• Continue to coordinate the timing of our traffic lights
• Provide safe ways to walk and bicycle to and from downtown
• Provide room for ride-sharing services to operate outside of the flow of traffic
• Promote public transit- starting with the adjacent SMART station
• Designing streets to promote the smooth flow of vehicles
• The pedestrian-friendly downtown design will encourage visitors arriving by car to "park once" and then walk to wherever they would like to go.

Possibly. It depends on the developer the City partners with. However, parks, green spaces, and a large community square is something the City knows is important and will be a vital part to the downtown. This, along with affordable housing and ensuring retail gets built are the City's priorities for downtown development.

We are looking forward to seeing our wonderful Community Services events in the future at downtown Rohnert Park!

The vacant 30-acre State Farm property was privately owned from 2010 to 2022. Because the property was privately held, the City could not take the lead on downtown development.

Now that we own the property, we are in a better position to deliver. We will partner with a qualified developer, and the City can have a greater say in how the land gets developed. We have owned the property since April 2022 and these types of projects can easily take many years to complete. We cannot make guarantees on timing given the economics of development. We will eliminate some of the challenges faced by prior owners. For example, we do not plan to include office space as we don't need it in Rohnert Park. Also, we don't plan to build a parking garage, which can be very expensive, but instead provide parking on streets within and adjacent to the property. While timelines are uncertain, the previous work we have done to prepare the site, coupled with the City owning the property, will accelerate development.

The City has three sources of water supply: groundwater, water purchased from Sonoma Water, and recycled water. Together, these three sources of supply form a very robust water portfolio that allows the City to meet planned demand even in drought years. The recycled water irrigates our parks and street medians, landscapes at schools and some businesses, Roberts Lake, Foxtail Golf Course and Sonoma State University.

There is a critical shortage of housing in Sonoma County; by reducing waste and practicing conservation, we can increase housing, build the other features of downtown, and have enough water. Residents use less water than ever before. Our residents are using 16% less water now than compared to 2013, even with the addition of new homes. In addition to expanding the use of recycled water, new residential development is designed to comply with strict water use standards. All new housing must have low-flow plumbing and drought-tolerant landscaping. In the long run, even accounting for dry years, Rohnert Park's water supply can meet the needs of our current residents and the new housing if we conserve.

City Policy (Policy No. 490.16.1) (PDF) allows for non-city community/civic event usage by local non-profits.

For-profit organizations should contact the Billboard Operator directly.

Please contact the Billboard Operator directly:

Tom Jackson
Veale Outdoor Advertising
Phone: 707-481-7461
Email Tom Jackson

Please email the completed Application (PDF) and artwork at least ten (10) business days prior to the requested start date.

Approved applications will be charged according to City Policy Exhibit B - Cost Recovery Rate Schedule (PDF).

Please review the detailed Guidelines (PDF) and Specifications (PDF) prior to creating a message. A 1-page User Guidelines Summary (PDF) is available.

Digital specifications are as follows:

• File Size: 200px H by 704px W
• File Type: uncompressed.jpg
• DPI: 72 default setting
• Color Mode: RGB and CMYK

Public Safety responds to an average of 1660 alarm calls each year, all of which are considered urgent. That's about 4-5 each day. Of those alarm responses, only 22% are actual alarms set off by criminal activity or hazardous situations. 78% of all alarm calls are unfounded. Many cities have adopted strict false alarm laws in order to inform the public and encourage property and business owners' involvement to reduce false alarm responses.

Alarm companies do not always have current or complete emergency contact information for the properties with an alarm. This can lead to officers being unable to access secured properties. Having your alarm registered with a minimum of two emergency contacts helps us make notifications if the alarm company can't. Also, knowing the types of alarms the property has can also make a difference in how officers determine their response to the alarm.

If you've received the letter, it's because Public Safety was notified of an alarm in which police or fire resources were sent and was determined to be unfounded. The Public Safety department sends letters to notify businesses and residents of the false alarm in order to increase awareness and address any malfunctioning equipment.

Your first false alarm of the calendar year is free of charge. After that, the 2nd alarm is $50, 3rd alarm is $100 and then $150 for each additional false alarm. These reset at the start of each calendar year. Your letter should have the number of false alarms listed, but if you're still not sure, you can call City Hall Finance at 707-585-6760.

Please send payments to City Hall, 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928

If you have a registration form included with your alarm notification letter, please send that to City Hall as well, along with a $30 check for first-time registrations, or $15 for renewals.

Quite often, the alarm company will call Public Safety if they cannot get ahold of the property owner or if the directions on the account are not clear. We advise periodically checking in with your alarm company to review directions on the account as well as have them service your alarm system annually.

High winds, power outages, and even the daily newspaper toss can set off alarm systems. We recommend an annual check-up of your alarm sensors and working with the technician to set up an alarm system that works into your lifestyle effortlessly. Have a trusted person as a backup contact who can reset the alarm if you're not home. Ensure that sensors are in place and secure. If you set it off accidentally, call your alarm company first to cancel them, and Public Safety second to ensure we were cancelled.

Volunteering offers a variety of ways for individuals ages 13 and above to contribute their time, skills, talents and interests, get involved in civic activities, and make a difference for the benefit of both the Rohnert Park community and the volunteer.

Some examples of ongoing opportunities for youth ages 13 and older include assisting at the Animal Shelter or in the Summer Camp Program. One-day special events include Founder's Day and National Night Out.

Anyone interested in volunteering for the City must first complete and submit a volunteer application (PDF). Please be advised that most volunteer assignments in the City require volunteers 18 years of age and older to be fingerprinted by the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety and cleared with the Department of Justice before beginning volunteer service.

Anyone interested in volunteering for the City must first complete and submit a volunteer application (PDF). Please be advised that most volunteer assignments in the City require volunteers 18 years of age and older to be fingerprinted by the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety and cleared with the Department of Justice before beginning volunteer service.

A landscape water budget is an estimate of how much water is needed to maintain a healthy landscape based on factors such as climate, landscaped area, and plant type.

The water budget equation includes reference evapotranspiration (ETo) data from a local weather station, plant factors that relater to plant type water use needs, and irrigated areas of turf and shrubs. Estimates total water use can be determined using the following formula:

Estimated Total Water Use Equation: (ETo)×(0.62)×[(PF × HA÷IE) + SLA]

• ETo= Reference evapotranspiration (weather factor)
• PF= Plant factor
• HA= Hydrozone area = square footage of irrigated area(s), by plant type (turf or shrubs)
• IE= Irrigation efficiency
• SLA= Special Landscape Area

The CRT is designed to be a bridge between the community and the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety. It will be designed to facilitate and enhance communication and the relationship between the Police Department and the community. The Community Round Table will assist in informing the Director of Public Safety of the broader community's concerns and views regarding public safety, thus guiding the focus of law enforcement services.

10 to 16

Members of the Community Round Table must be passionate about working in a positive and meaningful manner to improve the relationship between the Department of Public Safety and the community. Members must be able to work as a group and be willing to provide honest and constructive feedback to the Director of Public Safety.

Members will be selected based on a review of applications. The goal is to create a diverse group of individuals who represent many demographics and socioeconomic groups with the community.

Members will provide a two-way conduit of information to the community and the police department. They will provide input and information to the Director of Public Safety regarding issues in the community and engagement between the Department and community members. Members will be asked to serve 1 to 2 years on the team.

There is no volunteer time expectation, just attending the meetings.

Monthly

Input can be provided through email, through a Community Round Table member, or at a meeting.

On any given night, there are an estimated 279 individuals experiencing homelessness in Rohnert Park. In the entire County, there are 2,522 individuals experiencing homelessness on any given night. To learn more about the demographics of individuals experiencing homelessness, see the 2024 Sonoma County Homeless Point-in-Time Count Report. 

The City is taking numerous steps to address the challenges of homelessness, including connecting those experiencing homelessness to services, funding interim and permanent housing options, and responding to encampments. Learn more about what the City is doing to address homelessness.

Based on the annual Homeless Census and Survey, the number of homeless individuals in Rohnert Park at any one time has increased from about 45 people in 2015 to 279 in 2024. Due to increased development, staff presence in the creeks to address water quality, and the completion of the SMART train tracks, homeless individuals may be moving to different parts of the city, which can make them more visible.

There is little evidence that Rohnert Park is attracting homeless individuals from out of the area. The 2024 Homeless Point-in Time Survey showed that 79% of homeless individuals were already living in Sonoma County when they became homeless. There is evidence that some individuals experiencing homelessness move between the County’s largest population centers, travelling up and down the 101 corridor between Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park and Petaluma.

While there are some who may never want to move into housing, 93% of individuals experiencing homelessness report that they would gladly accept affordable permanent housing if it became available (see 2024 Homeless Point-in-Time Survey). The reality is that, for most, affordable housing – often with supportive services they need to remain safely housed – is not available to them.

Many factors contribute to homelessness, including insufficient income, the cost of housing, lack of physical and mental health services and lack of support systems. While many factors may cause someone to lose their housing, at root, the data shows that homelessness is a housing issue. In areas with high rents and low affordable housing supply, homelessness increases.  

California has 12% of the overall U.S. population, but about 30% of the nation's homeless population (about 172,000 total). The cost and lack of housing is a primary reason. If people lose their housing, it is much harder to find another place to live in California, which is short millions of housing units. California's population is the largest in the United States as well. A 2018 study by Zillow Research showed that homelessness increases more rapidly in areas where rent exceeds a third of a renter's income. Between 2013 and 2018, renters in Rohnert Park were paying an average of 39% of their income on rent. Per the Zillow study, as of 2018, renters in Santa Rosa were paying an average of 43.7% of their income towards rent.

Rohnert Park opened Labath Landing, a 60-unit interim housing program for people experiencing homelessness, in 2022. Visit the Labath Landing page for more information.

In Sonoma County, there are shelter beds available for about one-third of the individuals experiencing homelessness Countywide, leaving two-thirds unsheltered most of the year.

Homeless individuals are able to access public restrooms at the parks or library during open hours and Unsheltered Friends Outreach (UFO) operates a weekly shower program for people experiencing homelessness. The City provides portable toilets and hand-washing stations in or near major encampments at its discretion.

If a homeless individual - or any individual - is on your private home property and was not invited by you, they are trespassing and you should contact Public Safety to assist in removing them. If you see homeless individuals on public property and they are not breaking any laws, they are allowed to be there. While it is not acceptable for anyone to break any laws, being homeless is not a crime and homeless individuals enjoy the same rights as any other residents.

Learn more about how you can help.

Rohnert Park and Cotati launched the SAFE team in 2021, whose services include responding to people who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol and those in need of treatment for mental illness. 

The City also partners with Catholic Charities, a non-profit focused on helping people experiencing homelessness. Catholic Charities has an outreach team dedicated to Rohnert Park that regularly visits encampments and offers services to individuals there, which may include referrals to substance use and mental health support. Unfortunately, in Sonoma County, there are not sufficient mental health and substance use services available to adequately meet the needs.

City parks are closed at night, so no one should be in them overnight. The City adopted an ordinance in 2022 that gives us stronger tools to address encampments, prohibiting camping near sensitive areas, including creeks, schools, daycare facilities, facilities serving homeless individuals, libraries, and in the middle of streets, sidewalks and public right-of-ways. Additionally, the City prohibits camping within 600 feet of active groundwater wells in order to protect water quality. Watch the September 13, 2022 City Council discussion on this topic, item 7A.

RVs and vehicles are allowed to park on public streets as long as they are legally registered and move 1/10 of a mile every 72 hours. Everyone with an RV or vehicle may park it in a location that does not violate these rules. When RVs and vehicles violate these rules, Public Safety staff start the abatement process. Visit the RVs and Vehicles on Public Streets page to learn more.

The City works with Catholic Charities and Unsheltered Friends Outreach to provide outreach services to people experiencing homelessness in Rohnert Park, including those living in RVs and vehicles. These services include connecting people with housing and shelter options, obtaining government identification, and connecting with medical, mental health and substance use services. Read more about homeless services funded by the City on the Homeless Services page.

The City requires all its homeless service providers to provide regular reports for the programs funded through the City. The reports detail how many people have been served and housed through the program and, of those housed, what percentage kept their housing after assistance ended. Quarterly outcome data is reported on the City's homelessness page. Additionally, the City has a Homeless Taskforce made up of City staff that meet weekly to discuss the most effective ways and to address homelessness in our community.

If you see homeless individuals in public places and they are not breaking any laws, they are allowed to be there. While it is not acceptable for anyone to break any laws, being homeless is not a crime and homeless individuals have the same rights as any other resident. If anyone is dumping trash, or interfering with your use of a park, path, sidewalk, or other facilities, call Public Safety.

Learn how to protect your bicycle from theft and general bicycle safety on Public Safety’s Bicycle Safety and Theft Prevention page.

According to the California Attorney General's Office Victims' Services Unit, you can be a victim of a hate crime if you have been targeted because of your:

• Race or ethnicity
• Nationality
• Religion
• Gender
• Sexual orientation
• Physical or mental disability
• Your association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics

If you are a victim of a hate crime or you have witnessed a hate crime, please report the incident to the police as soon as possible. Regardless of whether the call comes during the incident or after, please call 911 and be prepared to relay the following information:

• Your injuries: Medical assistance will be called to assist if needed.
• The specifics of the crime: What happened? Who, what, where, when.
• What was said? Tell the dispatcher and the responding officer if the suspects used words that indicate a hate crime.
• Were any weapons involved? Please describe the gun, knife, etc. in as much detail as possible.
• Description of the suspects: Age, race, ethnicity, height, weight and clothing. Any unusual or defining characteristics: Scars, marks, tattoos, piercings, speech pattern, etc.
• Suspect vehicle description: Color, make, model, vehicle license plate number.
• Direction of travel: Which way did they leave the scene?

Even if you believe them to be insignificant, your information is vital to increasing public safety for all who live in your community. Calling 911 immediately helps us to:

• Prevent further harm or violence
• Collect evidence before it is destroyed
• Interview witnesses who can assist with convictions
• Apprehend suspects so they do not victimize others
• Warn the community of hate crime activity in the area through social media and alerts
• Increase patrols in the area.

The Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety's LGBTQIA+ Liaison serves as the direct contact point for internal RPDPS staff members and out in the community. Increasing safety for all, the liaison can be reached at the numbers provided. The RPDPS LGBTQIA+ Liaison duties include:

• Working closely with the LGBTQIA+ community on a variety of community-related events and issues
• Attending meetings and maintaining relationships with LGBTQIA+ community organizations
• Coordinating multi-governmental agency responses to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community
• Facilitating RPDPS participation in LGBTQIA+ related events throughout the region
• Acting as a Liaison between staff and Human Resources to assist with LGBTQIA+ related Issues/concerns
• Working with Training Coordinators to ensure LGBTQIA+ professional development
• Assisting with LGBTQIA+ social media messaging and educational outreach for public safety

You can access victim resources here.

A civilian complaint is your opportunity to address whatever issue or concern you may have about a Department member's performance. You can make a complaint about anything that concerns you. It will be taken seriously and handled appropriately by supervisory staff.

A personnel complaint may be made by anyone. However, it the complainant is under the age of 18, we require that the complainant be accompanied by a parent or an adult.

A complainant does not normally have to testify in any formal hearing. During the investigation, you, along with all witnesses, may be questioned concerning the incident. It is essential to any investigation to ask all pertinent questions and obtain factual information. Once an investigation is concluded, a disposition will be determined.

We encourage you to make your complaint by telephone, by mail, or by email; however, in-person is also an option. The complaint may be made at the Department of Public Safety or another mutually convenient location. The Department is primarily interested in learning about your concerns about law enforcement conduct or a need for improvement in our delivery of services.

A complaint may be made 24 hours a day. After normal business hours, a personnel complaint may be registered with any supervisor or the on-duty Watch Commander, or by calling 707-584-2600.

The complaint is assigned to a supervisor for further investigation, then sent to an independent police auditor for review. You will be notified in writing the disposition of the complaint.

Each allegation will be classified with one of the following dispositions:

• Unfounded - When the investigation discloses that the alleged act(s) did not occur or did not involve department personnel. Complaints that are determined to be frivolous will fall within the classification of unfounded.
• Exonerated - When the investigation discloses that the alleged act occurred, but that the act was justified, lawful and/or proper.
• Not Sustained - When the investigation discloses that there is insufficient evidence to sustain the complaint or fully exonerate the employee.
• Sustained - When the investigation discloses sufficient evidence to establish that the act occurred and that it constituted misconduct.

We invite civilians to bring their concerns regarding law enforcement practices and services to our attention; however, anyone who alleges that a crime was committed and reports that to a peace officer, knowing the report to be false, could be charged with a misdemeanor.

There are two types of personnel complaints. The first is an informal complaint. This complaint is normally handled by the employee's supervisor for minor transgressions and is brought to the employee's attention by the supervisor. 

The second type of complaint is a formal complaint. This is for more serious types of transgressions. The formal complaint is lodged with the employee's supervisor, watch commander, Lieutenant, Deputy Chief and/or Director of Public Safety

Submit a permit application for an alcoholic beverage establishment along with an application fee of $250.

ABC has approved AB 1221-compliant RBS training courses from a variety of approved RBS training providers. ABC will be adding additional training provider courses as they are approved. Servers may search for approved RBS training providers via the RBS Portal. The approved in-person and online courses range from approximately 90 minutes to 4 hours in length.

Rainwater that flows across the land is called stormwater.  In vegetated areas such as forests, fields and wetlands, rainwater seeps into the ground. However, when rain falls on paved and other hard surfaces, it runs off and is conveyed by pipes and infrastructure directly to wetlands, streams, creeks and eventually to the Laguna de Santa Rosa.  Stormwater runoff is generated by runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops during rainfall events that often contain pollutants in quantities that could adversely affect water quality.

Urban Runoff is rain and any other water that passes through and out of developed areas (streets, parking lots, rooftops, etc.) into the storm drain system and eventually to creeks and other waters.

Any substance that is not naturally in rain can be considered a pollutant. Potential pollutants can include:

• Sediment: Bare soil/ground, construction, dirt from vehicles are all sources of sediment that can turn water cloudy making it less suitable for aquatic life and plants. Sediment also carries pollutants such as chemicals, oils and metals as well.
• Nutrients: Excessive nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen can over stimulate the growth of algae and other aquatic plants, affecting water quality, creating unpleasant odors and lowered dissolved oxygen levels from plant decay. Some forms of algae are also toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, pets, and humans. Fertilizers, animal wastes, detergents, road de-icing salts, automobile emissions, and organic matter are all contributors to excessive nutrient levels in stormwater runoff.
• pH: Waters with very low (acidic) or very high (basic) pH are corrosive and can cause biological problems for aquatic organisms and fish. Cement used in concrete products and concrete pavements, chemical cleaners and acidic chemicals all can tribute to pH.
• Metals: Many metals, including lead, copper, and zinc, are commonly found in urban runoff. Dissolved metals, in very low concentrations, can be toxic to aquatic organisms and interfere with reproduction. Metals can adhere to and contaminate sediments in creeks and streams. Pesticides and paints, vehicle use and other materials contribute to metals in stormwater.
• Oils and Grease: Oil and grease can be toxic to aquatic organisms at relatively low concentrations. Oil and grease from vehicles, streets and roadways, parking lots, gas stations and other equipment/machinery contribute to oils and grease in storm water.
• Bacteria and other pathogens: Fecal coliform bacteria in water may indicate the presence of pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria and viruses. Pet and other animal wastes, failing septic systems, livestock waste in agricultural areas and on hobby farms and fertilizers can all contribute fecal coliform bacteria.
• Toxic Organic Compounds: Toxic compounds such as pesticides, cleaners, and paints are particularly dangerous in the aquatic environment and can be lethal to aquatic organisms. Excessive application of insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and rodenticides, shortly before a storm, or application on impervious surfaces can result in the pesticide being carried to receiving waters. Cleaners, even those marked non-toxic and biodegradable, are toxic to aquatic organisms in very small quantities. Many other toxic organic compounds can also affect receiving waters, including phenols, glycol ethers, esters, nitrosamines, and other nitrogen compounds. Common sources of these compounds include wood preservatives, antifreeze, and cleansers.

No, stormwater flows do not receive treatment prior to entering the storm drain system and local creeks.

The storm drain system was built to collect and transport rain to prevent flooding in urban areas. Anything that flows or is discharged into the storm drain system goes directly into local creeks without any treatment. The sanitary sewer system collects and transports sanitary wastes from homes and businesses (sinks, baths, and toilets) plumbing systems to the City of Santa Rosa’s Laguna wastewater treatment plant, where the wastewater is treated and reused.

As authorized by the Clean Water Act (CWA), the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States. The CWA was amended in 1987 and expanded from the wastewater treatment and industrial process water discharges to include stormwater discharges. In 1990, the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued rules governing the quality of stormwater runoff. These regulations require that stormwater discharges be regulated under the NPDES program that regulates wastewater discharges. The NPDES Program is a federal program that has been delegated to the State of California for implementation through the State Water Resources Control Board.

The City was previously designated as a Small Phase II Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) in 2003. The 2003 Order was adopted on April 30, 2003. In early 2013, Phase II cities, including the City, elected to participate in the Phase I MS4 program. The current NPDES permit was adopted by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board on January 6, 2016.

In October 2005, the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board approved the City's Municipal Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) to:

• Educate and inform the public about urban runoff pollution
• Encourage public participation in community and clean-up events
• Work with industries and businesses to encourage pollution prevention
• Require construction activities to reduce erosion and pollution
• Require developing projects to include pollution controls that will continue to operate after construction is complete
• Work with our own internal departments to ensure that our maintenance and development projects are designed to reduce pollution.

Putting anything into storm drains or creeks is more than inconsiderate - it's against the law. Violation of the stormwater ordinance is an infraction or misdemeanor at the discretion of the City. The City can require you to clean up the discharge at your expense. For continued violations, the City can take civil action.

Any intentional dumping in the right-of-way may also be subject to Penal Code 374.2(a), which carries fines. Anyone discharging materials that could cause harm to fish or wildlife may be subject to prosecution and fines up to $25,000 per day, per violation. (Refer to the California Water Code, California Fish and Game Code, U.S. Clean Water Act.)

If you see anyone illegally dumping within City Limits, you may report the problem to the Public Safety Department by calling 584-2611 or 584-2600.

In general, public property includes parks, streets, sidewalks, and street infrastructure - for example, traffic signals, streetlights, water hydrants, and signs. Report graffiti in these areas to the Rohnert Park Department of Public Works. Private property is typically located behind the sidewalk - for example, buildings, walls, and fences.

Generally, it is the responsibility of the property owner to remove graffiti on private property. There are products that can remove graffiti paint available at your local home supply stores.

The Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) provides water for 600,000 people in Sonoma and Marin counties. Sonoma Water relies on the Russian River and two reservoirs. As of March 24, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom has lifted the drought state of emergency and has rescinded the emergency level 2 drought restrictions for the majority of the state, including Sonoma County. There are currently no drought restrictions. Get more information about the impacts of low rainfall on the Russian River.

Drought Relief in the Russian River Watershed

While some parts of the state continue to experience severe drought conditions, we are pleased to announce that in the Russian River watershed, conditions have significantly improved. Thanks to recent developments and Executive Order N-5-23, curtailment orders implementing drought emergency regulations in the Russian River watershed have been rescinded. This signifies that water right holders in this region will no longer be obligated to adhere to curtailment requirements under the emergency regulation, and additional regulations specific to certain areas have also been rescinded.

We appreciate your ongoing commitment to responsible water use, and we encourage residents to stay informed about the specific water regulations applicable to their region.

We have some exciting news to share regarding our city's water conservation efforts! We would like to announce that the Level 2 water restrictions, which included mandatory compliance with various measures, have been lifted.

Let's recap the Level 2 restrictions that have now been lifted.

Level 2 Water Shortage Restrictions (No Longer in Effect)

• Restaurants were required to serve water on request.
• Hotels were obligated to allow guests to opt out of daily linen service.
• Filling new pools was prohibited.
• New water hauler accounts were restricted.
• Rate surcharges were under consideration.
• A water waste ordinance was in effect.
• Ornamental water features without circulating pumps were prohibited.
• Landscaping hours were restricted to between 8 pm and 6 am.

Now, let's explore the current Level 1 Water Shortage Contingency Plan:

Level 1 Water Shortage Contingency Plan: Voluntary Compliance

• Education and Outreach: We will continue to expand our education and outreach initiatives, working to raise awareness about responsible water usage within our community.
• Increased Water Waste Patrols: Our dedicated teams will intensify water waste patrols to identify and address any instances of water misuse.
• Targeting High Water Users: We will focus on the top 100 water users in our city, collaborating with them to explore opportunities for water conservation.

While we are pleased to announce the lifting of our Level 2 restrictions, it's important to note that certain water conservation measures established by the State Water Board remain in place. These regulations serve as the baseline for responsible water management and must be followed by all residents in California. Your continued adherence to these guidelines is crucial as we work together to ensure a sustainable water future for our state.

Yes, residents are encouraged to maintain their vehicles and wash their cars. To practice responsible water usage, please use a hose equipped with an automatic shutoff nozzle, ensuring controlled and efficient water flow. Consider directing runoff towards vegetated or rock areas when available, and opt for cleaning detergents without harsh chemicals to minimize environmental impact.

You are allowed to water decorative grass on your property unless you are in commercial, industrial, or institutional areas, including common areas of homeowner's associations (HOAs). However, please make sure that your watering practices do not lead to excessive runoff.

Yes, restrictions relating to time of day watering have been removed, allowing you the flexibility to water your landscape when it suits your schedule. Keep in mind that watering in the evenings or mornings can improve plant health by reducing water loss to evaporation during hot daytime hours. However, please remember to use water wisely and avoid wastage. Additionally, it's important to note that the application of water to irrigate turf or ornamental landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall of at least one-fourth of an inch of rain is prohibited.

For more information: Water Conservation Portal - Emergency Conservation Regulation | California State Water Resources Control Board

While not mandatory, we strongly encourage you to explore the idea of reducing decorative grass watering and replacing it with water-wise plants. This proactive step helps conserve water and makes your landscape more resilient to climate variations. Check out our Cash to Grass rebate program, which can provide up to $1000 for grass removal.

For valuable information and practical tips on converting your landscape and creating a climate-ready yard, we invite you to visit SaveOurWater.com. Additionally, you can visit QWEL.net to find qualified water-efficient landscapers in your area.

Yes, the State Water Board's emergency regulations do not restrict the filling, refilling, or use of swimming pools. You are still allowed to maintain your pool.

Yes, you can fill decorative fountains and pools with a recirculating pump, promoting responsible water use and conservation in our community.

The City is taking several steps, including:

• Promoting water conservation messaging.
• Making it easier to report water waste on the City's website.
• Increasing enforcement against those who waste water. We initially place a door hanger to help educate the homeowner, and then issue fines if problems continue.
• Offering Cash for Grass, which provides a $1 per square foot rebate, up to 1,000 square feet of lawn removed.

Irrigation accounts for approximately 50% of summertime water use. By turning off irrigation during the winter and conserving water in the warmer months, we can achieve our community-wide 20% water savings goal.

• Purchase a front-load washing machine and/or high-efficiency toilet.
• Run the dishwasher and clothes washer with full loads only.
• Consider replacing your lawn with a low-water use alternative landscape. The City of Rohnert Park is offering a $1 per square foot rebate through our Cash for Grass program.

Get other ideas.

We have three sources of water: 45% from the Russian River, 35% from groundwater, and 20% from recycled wastewater. The Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) relies on the Russian River and two reservoirs, Lake Sonoma and Lake Mendocino.

The recycled water irrigates our parks and street medians, landscapes at schools and some businesses, Roberts Lake, Foxtail Golf Course and Sonoma State University.

Yes, we have enough water to get us through the drought. In the long run, even accounting for dry years, Rohnert Park's water supply can meet the needs of our current and new residents.

2020 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP)

The state's water restrictions are based on the overall state and regional situations. The state does not account for local conditions such as those in Rohnert Park, where we have enough water.

There is a critical shortage of housing in Sonoma County, and residents use less water than ever before. Our residents are using 16% less water than compared to 2013, even with the addition of new homes. In addition to expanding the use of recycled water, new housing must have low-flow plumbing and drought-tolerant landscaping. Because of these changes and others, in the long run, even accounting for dry years, Rohnert Park's water supply can meet the needs of our current residents and the new housing.

Yes, we do! The City of Rohnert Park has a water contingency plan.

2022 Update of Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) (PDF)

Redistricting is the regular process of adjusting the lines of voting districts in accordance with population shifts. In California, public agencies and other organizations must review the lines of their districts every ten years once the results of the Census are released and if necessary, redraw the district boundaries so that each district is substantially equal in population. This ensures that each elected official represents about the same number of constituents.

All district lines must be reviewed to meet strict requirements for population equality, voting rights protections, and in accordance with the California FAIR MAPS Act. More than 500 jurisdictions in California must redistrict in 2021 to 2022.

Redistricting determines which neighborhoods and communities are grouped together into a district for purposes of electing councilmembers. The City Council will seek input in selecting the next district map for electing councilmembers. You have an opportunity to share with the City Council how you think district boundaries should be drawn to best represent your community, either during the public hearings or by emailing your comments.

Find a map of the City's current City Council districts.

1. Federal Laws

• Equal Population (based on total population of residents as determined by the most recent Federal decennial Census and adjusted by the State to reassign incarcerated persons to the last known place of residence)
• Federal Voting Rights Act
• No Racial Gerrymandering

2. California Criteria for Cities (to the extent practicable and in the following order of priority)

• Geographically contiguous (areas that meet only at the points of adjoining corners are not contiguous. Areas that are separated by water and not connected by a bridge, tunnel, or ferry service are not contiguous.)
• Undivided neighborhoods and "communities of interest" (Socio-economic geographic areas that should be kept together for purposes of its effective and fair representation)
• Easily identifiable boundaries
• Compact (Do not bypass one group of people to get to a more distant group of people)
• Prohibited:
• "Shall not favor or discriminate against a political party."

The Fair Maps Act defines a "community of interest" as a population that shares common social or economic interests that should be included within a single district for purposes of its effective and fair representation. Communities of interest do not include relationships with political parties, incumbents, or political candidates.

Below are useful excerpts from the Local Government Redistricting Toolkit by Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Asian Law Caucus (2020)

"Communities of interest are the overlapping sets of neighborhoods, networks, and groups that share interests, views, cultures, histories, languages, and values and whose boundaries can be identified on a map.

The following elements help define communities of interest:

• Shared interests in schools, housing, community safety, transit, health conditions, land use, environmental conditions, and/or other issues;
• Common social and civic networks, including churches, mosques, temples, homeowner associations, and community centers, and shared use of community spaces, like parks and shopping centers;
• Racial and ethnic compositions, cultural identities, and households that predominantly speak a language other than English;
• Similar socio-economic status, including but not limited to income, home-ownership, and education levels;
• Shared political boundary lines from other jurisdictions, such as school districts, community college districts, and water districts."

After you submit your map, the demographic consultants will generate the population and other demographic details for your proposed map. Maps can be viewed on the Draft Maps page or on the Interactive Review Map.

Once submitted, maps are considered public records.

Online publications and guides to redistricting:

• From MALDEF, the NAACP and the Asian Justice Center (PDF)
• From the Asian Americans Advancing Justice (PDF)
• From the California Independent Redistricting Commission FAQs

The City will reach out to local media to publicize the redistricting process. Also, we will make a good-faith effort to notify community groups of various kinds about the redistricting process. Our public hearings will be provided in applicable languages if residents email a request in advance.

The City will notify the public about redistricting hearings, post maps online before adoption, and maintain this dedicated web page for all relevant information about the redistricting process.

Share your specific thoughts, draw a map, or attend an upcoming hearing to get involved!

• Email written testimony about the process or a specific map.
• See the calendar of public hearings at which you can speak about the process or a specific map.
• Get information on drawing and submitting maps.

At the hearings, we want you to:

• Share your story
• Define your neighborhood or community of interest
• Explain why redistricting is relevant to your community
• Get the tools you need to draw a map of one district or of all five districts
• Share your opinions of the draft maps
• Talk to your neighbors and local organizations

Common acronyms and demographic categories:

• NH: Non-Hispanic
• VAP: Voting age population
• CVAP: Citizen Voting Age Population
• CVRA: California Voting Rights Act
• FAIR MAPS Act: Fair And Inclusive Redistricting for Municipalities and Political Subdivisions

No, you do not need to submit a fully completed map. You can draw boundaries for only your neighborhood or only a portion of the city. It is helpful if you submit written commentary with your map describing why the particular neighborhood or area should be kept together in a single district.

Yes, you may submit more than one map. Please draw as many maps as you like. We suggest you submit only your top 2 to 3 preferred maps to assist the City Council in focusing on the map that best represents your community; however, there is no limit.

The State Legislature enacted Government Code Section 910, et al., which provides legal guidelines for resolving disputes involving public funds. These laws require the filing of a sufficient and timely claim with a public entity before a lawsuit can be brought. These guidelines exist for both the public and the public agency. Some of those legal guidelines are:

1. Claims for death, injury to person, or to personal property must be filed not later than six months after the occurrence. See Government Code Section 911.2.
2. Claims for damages to real property must be filed not later than one (1) year after the occurrence. See Government Code Section 911.2.
3. A written Application for Leave to Present a Late Claim, along with a copy of the proposed claim, must be filed when a claim is not submitted within the time guideline. See Government Code Section 911.4.

Please also refer to Rohnert Park Municipal Code Chapter 2.44 - Claims Against the City for more information.

1. To ensure processing of your claim, complete each item on the claim form.
2. Mail or hand-deliver the completed and signed claim to the City Clerk, City of Rohnert Park, 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928. Government Code Section 915 requires claims to be mailed or hand-delivered to the City Clerk.
3. Once your claim is received, it will be forwarded to the City's Risk Manager for processing.
4. Once the investigation of your claim has been completed, you will be notified in writing or contacted directly with regard to the merits of your claim. In order for the City to utilize public funds for payment on any claim, there must first be an evaluation of liability.
5. If you have any questions about completing this form or the claims process, please contact the City Clerk at 707-588-2227. The City Clerk can assist you with processing your claim, but is not a resource for legal guidance regarding claims. If you have any legal questions about your claim, please refer to Government Code 910 et al. for guidance or seek professional help from an attorney.

Presentation of a false claim is a felony (Penal Code §72). Pursuant to CCP §§128.5 and 1038, the City may seek to recover costs of defense in the event an action is filed that is later determined not to have been brought in good faith and with reasonable cause.

If you believe that the city is responsible for damages to you or your property, you must file a written claim within six months of the incident, in most cases. In order to meet legal requirements, you must supply specific information. To assist you in meeting those requirements, the city has prepared a claim form for your use. Hard copy claim forms are available from the City Clerk's Office. Completed claim forms must be mailed or hand delivered to the City Clerk's Office along with copies of invoices, receipts, or pictures documenting your damages. The City Clerk is located at City of Rohnert Park, 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928.

After a claim is filed, it is forwarded to the City's Risk Manager for handling. The City's third-party administrator will send the claimant an acknowledgement letter. After an investigation of the claim facts, the Risk Manager will provide notice within forty-five (45) days as to whether the claim is accepted or denied. If the claim is determined to be untimely or incomplete, it will be returned to you with notice and instructions.

No, small claims cases are filed with the Sonoma County Superior Court. However, before filing an action with the small claims court, a claim must first have been filed with the City and rejected.

The California Water Code defines recycled water as "water which, as a result of treatment of waste, is suitable for a direct beneficial use or a controlled use that would not otherwise occur." Water from tubs, toilets and sinks inside homes and offices travels to the City of Santa Rosa's Laguna Treatment Plant, where it is cleaned through a treatment process that is ranked among the top five percent in the world for wastewater treatment technology. The result is recycled water - a high-quality, tertiary-treated water that is safe for the irrigation of landscapes, agricultural crops, vegetable crops that are eaten raw, vineyards, playgrounds, golf courses, parks, cemeteries, freeway embankments, and street medians. It is also frequently used in industrial processes, decorative fountains, fire suppression systems and much more.

Water recycling allows water managers to match water quality to specific reuse applications. This reduces the amount of fresh water required for non-drinking uses, ensuring that the best and purest sources of water will be reserved for the highest use - public drinking water.

The City receives recycled water via the Santa Rosa Subregional Water Reuse System (Subregional System) Laguna Treatment Plant. The Subregional System receives and treats wastewater from more than 225,000 residents and 6,500 businesses in the cities of Cotati, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, the South Park Sanitation District, and portions of unincorporated Sonoma County. After entering the Laguna Treatment Plant, wastewater from homes and businesses undergoes a carefully regulated purification and disinfection process, known as tertiary treatment. Throughout the process, samples are taken and tested in a state-of-the-art laboratory to ensure high-quality water.

Santa Rosa treats its wastewater to tertiary recycled water standards (also referred to as advanced water treatment), which is the highest level of treatment defined by the State of California (Referred to as Title 22); this level of treatment allows for unrestricted reuse in virtually all recycled water applications. To ensure a consistent level of quality, which meets or exceeds its intended uses, the City's recycled water is monitored and tested daily.

Yes, recycled water is safe. To ensure a consistent level of safety, recycled water is continually regulated, monitored and tested by the Laguna Environmental Laboratory, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the Department of Public Health. This ensures water quality that far exceeds its intended use. In thousands of applications throughout the U.S., there has never been a documented illness from recycled water use. Consistent inspections and strict regulations are also in place to ensure that the drinking and recycled water systems remain separate. Nature has recycled water for millions of years. By duplicating much of nature's process, it is now possible for us to purify water to a level that is beyond our drinking water standards.

The California Department of Public Health (DPH) establishes and enforces the standards for recycled water. Both the City and the customers using the water for irrigation must meet State requirements for recycled water. In addition, the California Regional Water Quality Control Boards issue water recycling permits based on the established DPH regulations.

The City has been using recycled water throughout the City on approximately 580 acres of urban landscaping, including City parks, schools, SSU, commercial properties and Foxtail Golf Course since 1998.  In 2014, the city saved over 270 million gallons of potable water by using recycled water for irrigation.

Yes, over 1,600 sites in 22 states are irrigated with recycled water. The water is treated to a quality that can be used to supply a recreational lake used for boating and swimming. The California Department of Public Health has determined that the water is essentially “pathogen free.” In other words, this water is carefully monitored and cleaner and safer than water at most beaches.

Santa Rosa’s Urban Reuse Project is for landscape irrigation and potential industrial uses only. However, indirect drinking-water reuse occurs in some communities as recycled water from an upstream community rejoins a river and becomes part of a downstream water supply. In addition, milestone groundwater recharge projects in Southern California have an excellent track record of success, with over 30 years of history and no outbreaks of waterborne disease linked to recycled water. Through groundwater recharge, recycled water percolates into groundwater basins, mixes with naturally occurring groundwater, and eventually is pumped out for drinking-water use. Treatment technologies are constantly improving, and indirect potable reuse is likely to become a well-accepted part of future water supply planning.

Recycled water offers a drought resistant water source that is dependable, locally controlled, and generally beneficial to the environment. Recycled water allows communities to become less dependent on groundwater and surface water sources and can decrease the diversion of water from sensitive ecosystems. Additionally, recycled water may reduce the nutrient loads from wastewater discharges into waterways, thereby reducing and preventing pollution.

These terms are generally used interchangeably, and which word is used depends on the region. Recycled or reclaimed water is water that is used more than once before it passes back into the natural water cycle. Thus, water recycling is the reuse of treated water for beneficial purposes such as agricultural and landscape irrigation, industrial processes, toilet flushing, or replenishing a groundwater basin (referred to as groundwater recharge).

Nonpotable recycled water goes through a separate pipeline system to the customers. It is completely separate from the drinking water pipeline system. Periodic cross connection tests ensure that the nonpotable recycled water pipelines are not accidentally connected to the drinking water system. In addition, there is ongoing monitoring and testing of the nonpotable recycled water and drinking water systems to protect the public's health.

Recycled water can play a major role in the management of landscapes in the City. The higher nutrient content of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in recycled water is beneficial to landscapes. In many cases, turf and other landscape plants will be able to obtain from recycled water all the phosphorous and potassium they require, and a large part of their nitrogen requirement. Sufficient micro-nutrients are also supplied by recycled water.

The Small Grants Program is the Rohnert Park Foundation’s community grant program. Its purpose is to focus resources on and provide funding to areas of need in the community of Rohnert Park, which enhance new partnerships with community members, nonprofits, foundations, public agencies, and similar entities and sustain or enhance the community. Rohnert Park city staff will administer the Small Grants Program on behalf of the foundation. Funding of the program comes from Second Amended and Restated Memorandum of Understanding by and between the City of Rohnert Park and the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR), dated June 27, 2023. 

Examples of eligible costs for programming and community projects:

• Program support
• Education
• Community Artwork
• Community beautification projects

Examples of ineligible costs:

• Actions taken outside the grant performance period
• Indirect overhead business expenses of the grantee's fixed or ordinary operating costs such as rent, insurance, etc.
• Mortgage payments
• Property taxes or utilities (this does not apply to costs included in the overhead policy submitted and approved with the grantee's application)
• Outside project site boundaries, fundraising, food or grant writing
• Salary, benefits, and administration costs exceeding 10% of the total grant amount

The maximum grant award is $10,000. Up to $300,000 of awards may be granted in this cycle of funding. The amount of grant award will be determined in part by an applicant's justification for the amount of the request.

Nonprofit organizations who intend to deliver a service or offer a project in Rohnert Park are eligible for funding. Eligible nonprofit organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All applications will complete an “Eligibility Screening Form” to determine eligibility.

1. The Grant Administrator performs initial review of grant applications. If there has not been staff pre-consultation, it is recommended that an applicant engage in consultation with the Foundation staff, specifically the Grant Administrator, to determine whether any concerns or deficiencies in the application exist. If an application is deemed incomplete, the applicant will be notified at the email address supplied in the application within two weeks of review. The Grant Administrator reviews applications for consistency with the intent of the Small Grants program, specifically, to benefit or improve the Rohnert Park community. As part of the policy review, an applicant may be requested to submit additional information about any part of its project.
2. The Small Grants Review Committee will review the application and other pertinent documents prepared by the grantee and other pertinent information about the project, and determine whether to recommend the grant application for consideration by the Executive Director and Foundation board. If the Review Committee deems an application ineligible, the applicant shall be notified in writing and the applicant may appear at the Foundation board meeting and comment on the Review Committee's decision during the public comment period.
3. When the Review Committee has recommended an application should be presented for consideration by the Foundation board, Foundation staff will prepare a staff recommendation for consideration by the Foundation Board. Foundation staff shall then recommend the grant application for consideration by the Foundation Board at a Foundation Board meeting. The start date for the grant agreement will be the date upon execution of the grant agreement.
4. All grant applications will be objectively scored using the updated Grant scoring rubric.
5. An applicant should be aware, however, that notwithstanding staff comments and recommendations, all decisions regarding grant applications are at the discretion of the Foundation Board.

The Small Grants fund is anticipated to operate on a two-year fiscal-year cycle. The Foundation will only accept grant applications following the issuance of the Small Grants Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA). Funding for the Small Grants Fund comes from the Second Amended and Restated Memorandum of Understanding by and between the City of Rohnert Park and FIGR. The maximum amount for a grant award is $10,000, while the minimum amount is $5,000. Funding for the program shall be determined on an annual basis during the foundation budgeting process and will be contingent upon funding availability.

In order to provide a diverse use for these funds, an organization can only receive one grant per grant cycle.

The Foundation board and Executive Director have determined that a two-year grant cycle is adequate time to complete a project.

If by "ongoing" funding you mean can a group apply for grants every subsequent two-year cycle, yes. Non-profit groups may apply for funding every grant cycle; however, no preference will be given to non-profits that were previously awarded Small Grants funds. Every grant application will be objectively scored and ranked, regardless of previous grant awards.

No. Only financial grants are available through the Small Grants Program.

Yes. If an organization’s project is selected, a grant contract can be established through a fiscal agent organization. Keep in mind that by signing the grant contract, the fiscal agent agrees to comply with the contractual terms, including fiscal reporting, records retention, and the final reporting schedule.

In general, Small Grants projects are intended to be available to as many members of the Rohnert Park community as possible. However, the reality of most projects is they target certain groups (e.g., student conferences), are located in non-public areas (e.g., on a school campus, or in a building that normally limits access to business hours), or have some other natural restrictions (e.g., are performed in a protected habitat). For this program, the Foundation seeks to understand how accessible your program is to the general public in the context of selecting a diverse portfolio of awards that best benefit the interests and character of the Rohnert Park community.

The evaluation committee seeks to understand the feasibility of a proposed project. Projects that demonstrate that they have secured the proper permissions and any partnerships needed to conduct the project will be scored favorably. For example, if an applicant proposes to install a park bench, the proposal should describe how the organization has or will secure permission from the park’s operator. As part of the evaluation process, the committee may reach out to the partners needed to conduct the project in order to confirm that the project has the permission to proceed, if funded.

No, the Foundation Board will consider will not waive Rohnert Park permits or fees. Applicants are expected to understand the permit and approval process required of their projects. The Small Grants Program will not seek waivers for any non-City permits. If funded, an applicant will be fully responsible for securing any non-City permit (e.g., County permits, food distribution permits, etc.).

No, as long as the project is completed by the end of the grant cycle, an approved project can build design review into its schedule. Successful applicants will be able to demonstrate that they understand the approval process for their respective projects, and which commissions or committees will need to give approval. Note: a successful grant award will not supersede the City’s approval process, and a successful awardee is expected to secure the proper permissions within the grant timeline.

The Foundation will communicate with the person identified as the Primary Contact Person in the organization’s grant application. If approved, a contract package will be delivered directly to the recipient organization at the address listed in the grant application.

A check will be delivered after the contract is fully executed. The Small Grants program will reimburse non-profit groups for work completed per the grant application. On a case-by-case basis, the Executive Director may authorize a percentage of the grant amount to be awarded up front. 

Please email your questions to Paul Carey, the Grant Administrator, or call 707-585-6754.

Substantial rises in housing costs in the late 1980s created concerns among residents regarding the affordability of all types of housing. Mobile home parks were particularly hard hit by rising space rents. To address these concerns, in 1987, Rohnert Park residents approved Ordinance No. 949. Called the Mobile Home Ordinance, it established the Mobile Home Parks Rent Appeals Board (“Board”).

The board is made up of five members appointed by the Rohnert Park City Council. The Board has regulatory authority related to the amount of rent that can be charged for each mobile home space that is under rent control. In that capacity, the Board is charged with alleviating the hardship of unreasonable rent increases while still ensuring the park owners a fair return. Some of the main duties of the Board are setting maximum yearly rent increases and reviewing pass-through expenses from park landowners. The purpose of the Board is to ensure that residents of the mobile home communities have fair representation, a balance between park owners and residents, and communication when there are proposed increases to space rent.

Members of the Rent Appeals Board are appointed by the Rohnert Park City Council. They are not compensated for their time or service.

The Board serves the residents in spaces under rent control of the five mobile home parks in Rohnert Park and the park owners. The Board serves primarily as a hearing body to consider rent increases and to ensure that rents are not increased in violation of the Mobile Home Ordinance. All mobile home park residents and park owners are encouraged to attend and participate in monthly meetings.

The Board serves mobile home park residents who are not on leases.

Park residents under rent control pay registration fees to cover the costs of the Rent Appeals Board. Park owners pre-pay this annual expense set by the board, and can pass that expense through to park residents under rent control.

Expenses include reimbursing City staff time, use of City Hall, legal representation, postage, copies and supplies, etc.

Every year in October, the Board reviews and adopts new space rent increases. In June, the Board adopts its annual budget. There are several reasons why a resident under rent control may see an increase in total rent and/or fees. These include:

• Pass-through expenses. The park owner may pre-pay for services that allow for them to be reimbursed by passing that expense to the park residents. Such expenses could be for utilities (if your park owner pays for PG&E), capital improvement projects, and annual administrative expenses such as the "registration fee" needed for the Board to function.
• Capital Improvements. The park owner may construct capital improvement projects within the park. In this case, the park owner will initiate a "capital improvement pass-through" to attempt to recover the cost of the improvement by seeking an individual adjustment of the resident's rents within the mobile home park and file a petition with the Board requesting such rent increases (the capital improvement will usually be broken out separately on the monthly bill).
• Annual Registration Fees. The Board can charge necessary expenses to cover administrative costs such as monthly meetings and application and petition review. These 'registration fees' are established in the adoption of the annual Board budget. Park owners are allowed to pass the cost of registration fees to residents by adding a monthly amount to the space rent (it will be broken out as a separate line item on residents' bills).
• Space Rent Increases. Per the City's mobile home ordinance, space rent increases for rent-controlled mobile home spaces are set based on the annual change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). CPI is a measurement produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) that examines the average prices of consumer goods and services or the "cost of living." If the CPI increases within the established budget year, the landlord is entitled to an increase in space rent for the following budget year. If CPI decreases, space rents will remain the same as the year prior. The ordinance caps increases at 4.0%, so the annual space rent increase can never be more than 4.0%. Learn more about the CPI.

Park residents may file for a rent adjustment petition on the following grounds:

• There has been a discontinuance or substantial reduction of housing service to homeowners/residents without a corresponding reduction in rent.
• The landlord has accepted and retained rent in excess of that permitted within the Ordinance.
• There are Capital improvement project pass-throughs not yet approved by the Board.
• There have been inappropriate registration fees charged.

View the Mobile Home Ordinance.

Park residents are free to attend and speak at any Board meeting. Additionally, feel free to contact the Board's Staff Liaison, Jenna Garcia.

The Board regularly meets on the first Thursday of each month at 6 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928. Meeting agendas are posted on the City's website at least three days preceding regularly scheduled meetings. Any meeting cancellations will be posted here and in public places around the City as well.

Evacuation Warning

Begin preparing for the possibility of evacuation.

Evacuation Order

There is an immediate threat to your safety; leave the area immediately.

Evacuation by street borders 

If you are unaware of your residential evacuation zone and are unable to access the searchable map, please use the link above to locate your zone via street borders.

Emergency preparedness is also an individual responsibility. We strongly encourage all residents of Rohnert Park to develop a household emergency plan and have a go bag available. You can use our Emergency Alerts and Preparedness web page resources to get started.

Shelter In Place means to seek immediate shelter inside a building. This action may be taken during the release of hazardous materials or other emergencies. 

Water Quantity

You should have at least a gallon of water per person per day. The water can be used for drinking, food preparation, personal hygiene, and dishwashing. Don't forget to include water for your pets as well. 

The City of Rohnert Park offers complimentary sand and sandbags during the winter months. The sand and bags can be located within the northern parking lot of the Rohnert Park Community Center complex at 5401 Snyder Lane.

A Red Flag Warning is issued for weather events which may result in extreme fire behavior that will occur within 24 hours.  A Red Flag Warning is the highest alert. During these times extreme caution is urged by all residents, because a simple spark can cause a major wildfire. A Fire Weather Watch is one level below a warning, but fire danger is still high.  Learn more from CAL FIRE.

Permits are valid from January 1st through December 31st. Permits are renewed annually.

New permits will be prorated for the first year on a quarterly basis.

Up to three (3) permits may be purchased per residence, and no more than one permit shall be issued per motor vehicle (with valid DMV registration).

To accommodate special events such as family gatherings and other temporary events, the City may issue “Temporary Parking Permits” to residents within a residential parking permit area. Any resident with a residential parking permit area can apply for a “Temporary Parking Permit at City Hall. A Temporary Parking Permit shall be valid for a maximum period of 14 calendar days and must include the following information:

• The residential parking permit area.
• The dates for which it is valid.
• The address of the residence associated with the temporary parking permit
• The printed name
• The fee is $5.00

No, the permit program only uses hangtags.

A permit holder is not guaranteed a parking space and is not exempt from other traffic controls and regulations existing in the residential permit parking area. Permit holders must comply with all City and State vehicle code requirements. Citations may be issued for violations, including, but not restricted to, the following:

• Parked in excess of the time limit, and permit is not properly displayed.
• Parked in a driveway, and the back end (or front end) protrudes onto the sidewalk.
• Parked facing the wrong direction.
• Parked in front (blocking) a driveway.

The rules of the residential permit program have been established for consistent and equitable use of the permits and parking in the area. In order to achieve the objective, the officers will follow the rules of the program and city any vehicle not displaying a residential permit. Citations are eligible for review based on set criteria for permit holders. There is no guarantee citations will be dismissed because the contestant has purchased a permit.

A petition supporting the addition or removal needs to be signed by 65% of the residents and approval is then a matter of the City Council determination.

"Bingo" means a game of chance in which prizes are awarded on the basis of designated numbers or symbols that are marked or covered by the player on a tangible card in the player's possession and that conform to numbers or symbols, selected at random and announced by a live caller.

RPMC 9.66.010

Yes, the Director of Public Safety may suspend a previously issued bingo permit for any of the following causes:

• The permit holder is determined to be ineligible to hold the permit
• The permit application contains one or more false, misleading or fraudulent statements
• Bingo games authorized by the permit have been conducted in violation of a condition or requirement of the permit, or this chapter, or Penal Code Section 326.5
• There has been one or more violations of federal, state, or city law committed at the location of the bingo games in conjunction or associated with the operation of the bingo games o the bingo games and the accompanying activities have become detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the residents of the city.

RPMC 9.66.150

The total value of the prize shall not exceed five hundred dollars in cash or kind, or both, for each separate game which is held.

RPMC 9.66.170

No, all bingo games shall be open to the public, not just the members of the permit holder organization. The permit holder shall not reserve seats or space for any person. 

RPMC 9.66.230

Notwithstanding that bingo games are open to the public, attendance at any bingo game shall be limited to:

• The occupancy capacity of the room in which such game is conducted, as determined by the appropriate fire department and the building department of the city in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Persons who are eighteen years of age or older
• Persons who are not obviously intoxicated
• Persons physically present at the time and place in which the bingo game is being conducted

The minimum age to legally ride an electric scooter is 16 with a driver's permit or license.

Helmets are required to be worn by anyone under the age of 18. Helmets are strongly encouraged for individuals 18 and over.

Yes, bicyclists must obey stop signs and red signal lights. 

Bicycle lanes are sometimes painted a bright green color to increase visibility and driver awareness.

An E-bike is an electric bicycle, which is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. The maximum speed of an E-bike is 20 MPH for Type 1 and Type 2 and 28 MPH for Type 3.

See the chart below for an explanation of the three classes of E-bikes and how they compare to bicycles and mopeds.

	VEHICLE SPECS		USER REQUIREMENTS
VEHICLE TYPE	PEDAL OPERATED	MAXIMUM MOTOR-ASSISTED SPEED (MPH)	MINIMUM AGE (YEARS)	DRIVER'S LICENSE	LICENSE PLATE	HELMET
BICYCLE	YES	N/A	N/A	NO	NO	17 & UNDER
TYPE 1 E-BIKE	YES	20	N/A	NO	NO	17 & UNDER
TYPE 2 E-BIKE	NO	20	N/A	NO	NO	17 & UNDER
TYPE 3 E-BIKE	YES	28	16	YES	YES	YES
MOPED	NO	N/A	16	YES	YES	YES

Yes, per the California Vehicle Code section 21212(a), all bike riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet while riding a bike. However, when riding a Class 3 E-bike, all riders must wear a helmet regardless of their age.

Pocket Bikes can only be ridden on private property. They can not be ridden in parks, on school property, or on trails, roads, or sidewalks. Failure to comply with the law may result in the bike being impounded. 

Pocket bikes are small motorcycles powered by 40-49cc gasoline engines or electric motors. Pocket bikes meet the definition of a motorcycle as defined by California Vehicle Code 400(a).

Motorized Scooters (With or Without a Seat)

• Driver's license or permit is required
• Properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet is required
• Cannot exceed 15 mph
• Ride in the bike lane, not on the sidewalk
• Ride in the direction of vehicle traffic
• Wear close-toed shoes, reflective gear, and don't text or wear earbuds while riding
• Obey all the rules of the road

More Information

Motorized Bicycles / Mopeds (With or Without Pedals, with an Automatic Transmission)

• Capable of up to 30 mph
• Motorcycle license is required
• DOT-certified motorcycle helmet is required
• Cannot exceed 20 mph
• Insurance might not cover crashes
• (Capable of no more than 20 mph, less than 1000 watt output)
• Rider must be at least 16 years old
• Properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet is required

Electric Bicycle Definition and Class Characteristics

Motorized Bicycle Definition

E-bikes:

• Class 1 & 2: No license required
• Class 3: Riders must be at least 16, but no license is required (CVC §21213(a))

E-scooters:

• Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit and be at least 16 years old to operate an e-scooter in California (CVC §21235(d))

• E-bikes:
  • Class 1 & 2: No minimum age by law, but children should be knowledgeable of the rules of the road
  • Class 3: Minimum age is 16 (CVC §21213(a))
• E-scooters: 
  • Riders must be 16 years of age and obtain a driver’s permit or license

Violating California or local laws (e.g., speeding, riding on sidewalks, riding without a license) can result in citations, fines, and in some cases, impoundment of the device. Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety Officers can and will enforce these rules for public safety.

Yes. Riders should be proficient in the use of hand signals, just like bicyclists and drivers. This includes knowledge of the signals for turns and lane changes.

• E-bikes:
  • Class 1 & 2: No minimum age by law, but children should be knowledgeable of the rules of the road
  • Class 3: Minimum age is 16 (CVC §21213(a))
• E-scooters: 
  • Riders must be old enough to obtain a driver’s permit or license

Yes. Riders should use hand signals just like bicyclists and drivers. This includes signaling for turns and lane changes.

You can utilize our online portal to file non-emergency incident reports, including non-injury traffic accidents.

Non-emergency incident reporting

Noise violations can occur at any hour and may include noise sources such as music, voices, social gatherings, leaf blowers, construction, etc. You can report noise violations at (707) 584-2600.

If you accidentally call 911, do not hang up the phone. Stay on the line and tell the operator what happened. The operator will need to know exactly where you are so the police can verify that the 911 call was accidental.

Property will only be released to its rightful owner. To retrieve property, you must show photo ID and pay any applicable fees. Release hours are by appointment only. Please call (707) 584-2600 to make an appointment.

Not at this time. Livescan fingerprinting can be completed here in Rohnert Park at Ameriprints. 

Our officers are trained to handle an array of situations calmly and professionally. Follow the directions from officers and remain peaceful even if the interaction ends in an arrest.

• Pull to the right.
• Put the vehicle in park.
• Roll down the window.
• Turn on inside lights.
• Keep your hands visible.
• Expect the officer to engage you respectfully and reciprocate the same.
• Ask before reaching for anything.
• You will be asked to provide a Driver’s License, Registration & Proof of Insurance.
• You may be asked questions about the vehicle and other occupants.
• If weapons are present leave them where they are and notify the officer. Keep your hands visible.
• Notify the officer if injured or medical attention is needed.
• Stay peaceful.

• Expect the Officer to engage you respectfully and reciprocate the same
• Consensual/Casual Contact: Officers contact many people in their community either during routine events or during a call for service. During these encounters, you are free to end the contact and/or not speak with the officer if you choose.
• Detention Stops: In a detention stop the police only need reasonable suspicion to stop/detain an individual. Reasonable suspicion means that there were objectively reasonable circumstances to suspect that the detained individual was involved in or was about to be involved in a crime. If you are being detained, you do not have the legal right to walk or run away or resist in any other manner.
• Answer questions if you want to, or request an attorney.
• Provide any required documents (Driver’s License, insurance, etc.).
• Sign paperwork not admitting guilt.
• Ask the officer clarifying questions in a non-argumentative manner.
• Ask for the officer’s name and badge number if you want.
• Ask for an incident or case number.

Yes, the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety has an anonymous crime reporting email. Anonymous reports can also be made via telephone at (707) 584-2677.

Inside the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety is a secured drug drop box in which you can place unwanted or expired medications. 

A Public Safety Officer is a Police Officer. A Public Safety Officer is also a Firefighter. Our Public Safety Officers go through both a Police and Fire Academy.

Yes. All fireworks, including safe and sane, are illegal to possess, sell, transport, or utilize within Rohnert Park city limits. 

You may visit our main station lobby during business hours. If an officer is available, they will be able to sign for you.

Graffiti on public property can be reported through GovReach or by calling (707) 584-2600.

Inoperable vehicles parked on city streets can be reported through GovReach or by calling (707) 584-2600. Please be aware that the process to remove a vehicle from the roadway may not be immediate. 

The Department received an ISO Public Protection Classification rating of 2.

Firefighters can and often do get there first, and time is critical in a medical emergency. Our engines respond in addition to the ambulance. 

Time is critical for someone who has experienced a heart attack, injury, or other illness that makes the person stop breathing. The heart and brain have a better chance of full recovery if they receive oxygen in as soon as possible. Without it, a person can suffer irreversible brain damage or death. Our firefighters can use life-saving techniques, including defibrillation, to help prevent death or permanent injury. These life-saving techniques are much more effective the sooner they are provided to the patient.

Yes, our Community Service Officers (CSO) handle animal control-related calls within the City. They respond to calls regarding stray, sick, aggressive, or injured animals. CSOs also investigate reports of animal cruelty and dog bite incidents. 

To report a barking dog, please call us at (707) 584-2600. 

Yes, if you see something that just doesn't seem right, say something. Although police may not be dispatched to the scene, any information you can provide to dispatch is helpful. The details you provide about an individual(s) description, such as approximate height, weight, sex, color of clothing, and distinguishing features, can be used to determine any patterns or connections to other similar events. 

In 1996, California enacted "Megan's Law," which provides the public with photographs and descriptive information on the most serious sex offenders residing in California who have been convicted of committing sex crimes and are required to register their whereabouts with local law enforcement.

No, unless there is an injury or the accident was a hit-and-run. Parties involved may exchange information and contact their respective insurance carriers. 

No. If the incident occurred outside the City of Rohnert Park, please file the report with the jurisdiction where the incident occurred.

If the incident occurred on Highway 101, please report it to the California Highway Patrol.

To learn about the status of your case, please call 707-584-2600 to be directed to the officer who took the original report. If they are unavailable, you will be transferred to their voicemail, where you may leave a message. Please be sure to be prepared with your case/ report number so you can be better helped when you call. Officers work a 4-day work week. It may take up to 4 days to return your call. 

You'll need to petition the court that had jurisdiction over your case. 

Police case numbers are issued when a police report is made. If the incident or crime has not yet been reported, you may call dispatch at 707-584-2600 to request that an officer contact you to take a report. You may also visit our station in person at 500 City Center Drive, Rohnert Park, CA 94928. If a report has already been taken and you are in need of the case number, please call our records department at 707-584-2606.

RVs that are legally registered can park on public streets. The City requires that RVs and boats parked on the street be moved 1/10 of a mile every 72 hours. We cannot start the 72-hour  'clock' until we have identified the vehicle and marked its tires or parking space.

Public Safety enforces State laws and the Municipal Codes fairly and evenly. There are residents who park or store their RV on the street. Everyone with an RV can park it in a location that does not violate the rules.

RVs and their occupants cannot block public access to sidewalks or discharge waste onto the steet.

The City has the authority to have RVs, boats, and cars towed when they have been parked in the same location beyond the 72-hour limit. however, there is limited capacity to tow larger vehicles.

Towing companies will not tow vehicles if someone is actively residing inside. It is legal to reside in an RV if the owner complies with the legal requirements applying to all RVs.

There are two reasons for an expired registration sticker. The Public Safety Department can determine the reason for the expired registration stickers which will direct the enforcement decisions of the Community Services Officer (CSO).

1. The registered owner has paid the registration fee and the sticker has been been applied to the license plate. The CSO will advise the registered owner to apply the updated sticker as soon as possible and will advise of the 72-hour parking limit. 

2. The registered owner failed to pay the fees or complete required steps such as smog. Enforcement action can begin with a citation. Should the registration remain uncompleted, a second citation will be issued. This is followed by a legal process referred to as abatement. 

The obtain a vehicle release, follow these steps: 

Timing

Visit the Records Bureau during business hours. For recovered stolen vehicles, contact the on-duty Sergeant at 707-584-2600 outside these hours.

Documents Needed

Bring current registration (with all fees paid) and a moving permit if smog is an issue. The registered owner or an authorized representative with a photo ID must be present.

Driver

If the registered owner or representative doesn't have a valid license, bring someone who does to drive the vehicle from the tow yard.

Payment

Bring EXACT CASH, a cashier's check, credit/debit or a money order for the vehicle release fee of $176.00

Tow hearings are conducted pursuant to CA Vehicle Code Section 22852.

Tow hearings may be scheduled weekdays by visiting the Records Bureau or by calling Records during business hours at 707-584-2600. The hearing may not be granted if this request is made 10 or more days since the date of the tow/impound.

If a VALID REQUEST for a post-storage hearing is received, the hearing shall be conducted within two business days after the receipt of the request for the hearing (excluding holidays).

If you wish to meet the Hearing Officer, please complete the Tow Hearing Questionnaire.

The Tow Hearing will only address issues concerning the validity of a tow and possible early release of a vehicle impounded for 30 days. Discussion concerning Officer actions prior to the tow/impound, probable cause, search and seizure, guilt or innocence, or any details about the pending criminal case will not be discussed. You should direct those issues to a criminal defense attorney.

If you are the registered owner of the towed vehicle, you can visit the tow yard with a valid photo ID and retrieve your belongings. 

Property is only released by the tow yard during business hours. Call ahead of time and make an appointment. 

In no circumstance will you be able to remove anything that is connected to the vehicle. This includes, but is not limited to, any components of the sound system. This specifically includes a Stereo or CD face plate. 

If you have a Bluetooth device for your cell phone or a radar detector, etc., you may take those, unless the device is connected by wiring, with the exception of a power cord plugged into an accessory outlet.

Driver Arrested

When the driver is arrested and booked at the jail the officer may tow the vehicle.

Registration Expired

IF the registration is expired for over 6 months the vehicle may be towed.

Evidence Impounds

If you vehicle was used in a crime it is subject to impound for evidentiary purposes.

30 Day Impound

The driver of the vehicle has never had a license or was driving with a suspended license. Before you loan your car to anyone, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure they are properly licensed.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle

If your car was stolen, and we recover it, we will tow it at your expense if we are unable to reach you to pick it up. Any vehicle release fees will be waived. The tow company will still charge for the cost of the towing and any incurred storage.

Parked for over 72 hours Without Moving

It is illegal to leave your car parked on the city street for more than 72 hours without moving it. Generally, we will respond to a complaint about an abandoned vehicle and may store it any time after 72 hours. If the vehicle has been subject to a longer formal "abatement process" and towed pursuant to Vehicle Code Section 22669A, the vehicle release fee will be waived. 

Abandoned vehicles can be reported through the Gov Reach application or by calling (707) 584-2600.

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 9.64.010 defines a peddler as "...any person, whether a resident of the city or not, traveling by foot, wagon, automotive vehicle, or any other type of conveyance, from place to place, from house to house, or from street to street, carrying, conveying or transporting goods, wares, and merchandise, and personal property of any nature whatever, offering and exposing the same for sale, or making sales and delivering articles to purchasers, or who, without traveling from place to place, sell or offer the same for sale from a wagon, automotive vehicle, railroad car, or other vehicle or conveyance..."

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 9.64.010 defines Solicitor as "...any person, whether a resident of the city or not, traveling either by foot, wagon, automotive vehicle, or any other type of conveyance, from place to place, from house to house, or from street to street, taking or attempting to take orders for sale of goods, wares and merchandise and personal property of any nature whatsoever, for future delivery, or for services to be furnished or performed in the future, whether or not such individual has, carries or exposes for sale a sample of the subject of such sale or whether he is collecting advance payments of such sales or not provided that such definition shall include any person, who, for himself or for any other person, hires, leases, uses or occupies any building, structure, railroad car, boat, hotel room, lodging house, apartment, shop or any other place within the city for the sole purpose of exhibiting samples and taking orders for future delivery."

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 9.64.020 prohibits any peddler or solicitor from ringing a doorbell or knocking on any building where there is a printed or affixed sign indicating no peddlers, no solicitors, and/or no agents. 

No, a seller's permit is issued by the State of California for retail tax purposes. Seller's permits are also issued to vendors who set up tables to sell items at local craft and trade shows. A solicitor/peddler's permit is specifically for persons engaged in door-to-door sales and/or solicitation within the City of Rohnert Park. 

Test Answer. Acutaly this is the answer.

More Answers.

Our goal in scheduling our camp programs is to match the summer schedule of the Cotati-Rohnert Park school system, specific dates will be announced in early spring and in our summer Rec Guide. 

For more general information, please see our Parent Handbooks:

Camp Burton Handbook

Teen Camp Handbook

You can register your camper online (HERE), in-person at the Rohnert Park Community Center (5401 Snyder Lane), or over the phone (707)588-3456. Registration opens in spring, dates to be announced.

• Camp Burton- is located at Burton Recreation center at 7421 Burton Ave
• Leaders-in-Training (LIT): this program happens in conjunction with Camp Burton. 
• Teen Camp- this program is excursion based, specific trip locations will be announced in early spring, but all camper drop-off and pick-up times happen at the Rohnert Park Community Center at 5401 Snyder Lane.

• Camp Burton: 5-10 years old
• LIT Program: 12-14 years old
• Teen Camp: 11-14 years old

• Camp Burton: approximately 7 campers to every 1 staff, maximum capacity is 50 campers.
• Teen Camp: 7 campers to every 1 staff, maximum capacity is 14 campers.

• Camp Burton: includes activity rotations focused on art, STEM, and outdoor sports, with pool days on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.
• LIT: Our LIT program focuses on helping campers develop leadership skills in the camp setting, they will help lead games, crafts, and other camp activities.
• Teen Camp: this excursion-based program focusses on exciting trips to locations around Sonoma County and the Bay Area, while teaching campers independence and responsibility as campers are allowed to explore specific filed trip locations using a buddy system and checking in with staff during set times. 

• Camp Burton has a $10 per week deposit, with full payment due the Wednesday prior to camp, if full payment is not received, camper may be dropped from our roster and spot be given to next camper on the waiting list.
• Currently our other camp programs do not have deposit/payment plans available and must be paid in full at time of registration.

• Withdrawals made before 5pm on the Wednesday prior to camp will be charged a $10 withdrawal fee (per session, per child)
• Withdrawals made after the Wednesday before but prior to camp starting will be charged a 50% cancellation fee
• If a withdrawal is made during the week the program begins, no refund will be issued due to staffing and supply costs.

• Our staff are trained in CPR and First Aid. We have First-Aid kits at our two sites as well as in our vans with our Teen Camp program. 
• For minor scrapes and injuries, our staff will administer first aid and notify parents at pick-up. 
• For major injuries, our staff will follow emergency procedures and contact parents as soon as possible. 
• Allergies: we ask that parents notify staff of camper allergies and include information on the camper questionnaire filled out during registration.
• If camper becomes ill at camp, we will contact parents and request camper is picked-up, depending on the severity and issue. We ask that if your camper is ill before camp, that they stay home out of courtesy to our staff and other campers. 

• We do not provide snacks, occasionally our activities will involve snacks, such as cooking activities at Camp Burton or Preschool Camp. But we ask that parents pack lunches and plenty of snacks for their campers. 
• Teen Camp excursions often have time allotted to stop for lunch. It is up to parents if they would like to send their child with a packed lunch or if they would like to send their child with money to buy lunch. Please refer to the weekly itineraries for this program for details. 

Rohnert Park Community Center – 5401 Snyder Lane

• Multi-Use Room – Capacity 350
• Meeting Room #2 & Lounge (combined) – Capacity 75
• Meeting Room #3 – Capacity 40 (no food allowed)
• Garden Room – Capacity 40 (no food allowed)
• Conference Room – Capacity 15 (no food allowed)

Burton Recreation Center – 7421 Burton Ave

• Main Hall – Capacity 200

Senior Center – 6800 Hunter Dr A

• Activity Room – Capacity 150

• We ask that facility reservations be made at least 45 days before your event date. If you’re requesting a space with less notice, approval will depend on staff availability and scheduling.
• Submit a rental application (Facility Rental Application-English, Facility Rental Application- Spanish) to the Rohnert Park Community Center front desk, during business hours, Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm (excluding city-recognized holidays).
• Rentals may be reserved up to one year in advance. If your requested date falls on a weekend, reservations open on the Friday one year prior.
• A refundable deposit is required to hold your date for our large halls:
  • Events with alcohol: $800 deposit
  • Events without alcohol: $400 deposit

Yes. Facility tours can be scheduled during business hours by contacting the Rohnert Park Community Center front desk at (707)588-3456.

Final rental payment is due 30 days before your event date.

Event insurance and contracts for any required security guards also due 30 days prior to rental date.

We provide tables and chairs at no additional cost. Our larger halls include enough chairs to meet the full room capacity. However, the number of tables available may not be sufficient for your specific event needs or layout preferences.

Each facility has a set number and type of tables, and availability may vary. If your event requires more tables than we provide, it is the renter’s responsibility to bring in additional tables.

• Community Center Multi-Use Room – Includes 44 round tables that seat approximately 6-8 people each, 16 rectangular 8-foot tables that seat approximately 8 people, and 16 rectangular 12ft tables that seat approximately 10 people. Please note that the amount of tables able to fit in the room depends on the layout.
• Burton Recreation Center – Includes 200 black banquet chairs and 20 rectangular 8ft tables, seating approximately 8 people each. Renters may bring extra tables if needed.
• Senior Center Activity Room – Includes 150 black folding chairs and 35 rectangular 8ft tables.

Yes, if alcohol is served for more than 5 hours or if deemed necessary by City staff based on event type/size, professional security guards must be hired at the renter’s expense.

Each facility has flat fees plus hourly rates. Please see the attached rental fee sheet for specific pricing. To calculate your cost, add the flat fee with the total number of hours you’d like to rent, choosing the hourly rate from the category that you fall into (non-profit, private resident, non-resident of Rohnert park). 

Community Center- Multi Use Room Fees- English

Community Center- Multi Use Room Fees- Spanish

Community Center- Meeting Room Fees- English

Community Center- Meeting Room Fees- Spanish

Burton Recreation Center Fees- English

Burton Recreation Center- Spanish

Senior Center Fees- English

Senior Center Fees- Spanish

The security deposit is to protect the facility in the event of damage or policy violations. If no damage is found after your event and all rules are followed, your full deposit will be refunded.

Please note, we may withhold part or all of the deposit for the following reasons:

• Damage to the facility or equipment
• Excessive cleaning required
• Staying beyond the contracted time
• Failure to follow facility rules

Our full rental policy details are provided on our rental application.

Facility Rental Application

Yes, outside catering is allowed. A flat kitchen-use fee applies if using the kitchen in any large hall. Kitchens include commercial refrigerators and stovetops, but no cooking tools or utensils.

Outside grills, barbecues, and additional cooking equipment are not permitted.

Yes. Special Event Insurance is required, please see the attached document for specific requirements:

Facility Rental Insurance Information

Insurance is due 30 days prior to rental date.

• Cancellation of your event less than 60 days prior to your event will result in forfeit of your deposit. An administrative fee of $50 will be charged for any cancellation prior to the 60-day period. In either case, all rental fees paid will be refunded in 4-6 weeks. 
• A user may request to change the date of an event if the date is still available at a cost of $25, though any request for changing dates less than 60 days prior to your current date will be treated as a cancellation for the purposes of this policy.

Our facilities have different hours of availability, additionally all cleanup completed by the contracted end time. (Check these)

                Community Center Multi-Use Room Availability

                                Sunday-Thursday: 8:00 AM-10:00 PM

                                Friday-Saturday: 8:00 AM-1:00 AM

                Burton Recreation Center

                                Sunday-Thursday: 8:00 AM- 10:00 PM

                                Friday- Saturday: 8:00 AM- 11:00 PM

                Senior Center

                                Monday-Sunday: 8:00 AM- 10:00 PM

Yes. The correct deposit must be paid. Events serving alcohol for more than 5 hours must hire professional security guards. Alcohol service must completely stop by 10:00pm.

Yes, but restrictions apply. Prohibited items include nails, tacks, push pins, staples, screws, glue, glitter, confetti, and duct tape.

Only painter’s tape and command strips/hooks may be used on surfaces. We strongly recommend free-standing decorations.

If prohibited materials are used, part or all of your deposit may be withheld depending on damage.

Renters must:

• Remove all decorations, supplies, and personal belongings
• Remove all trash and place it in outside dumpsters
• Clean kitchen (if used) of any supplies and debris
• Leave the facility in the same condition it was found
• Check-out with Facility Staff

Failure to complete cleanup may result in deposit withhold.

Deposits are processed after staff review the facility, due to processing time, deposits will be refunded usually within 4-6 weeks following your event. Refunds will be mailed via check to the address on file.

• During business hours (Mon–Fri, 8:00am–5:00pm): Rohnert Park Community Center front desk (707) 588-3456
• During your rental: Facility Staff Phone (707) 807-1860

To ensure construction projects are built safely and in compliance with local building, zoning and fire codes.

Permits are required for any work that involves constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing or changing the occupancy of a building or structure.

Cosmetic work like painting, wallpapering or installing new flooring. 

*Note: Check with the Building Department, who can help you determine if a permit is required: 707-588-2240

You can apply for your permit by creating a PUBLIC USER or a CONTRACTOR account. For detailed instructions please visit https://www.rpcity.org/224/Apply-for-Building-Permits- Online

Building inspections should be scheduled via the online portal at https://rpccrw.rpcity.org/etrakit3/

It is browser sensitive - please use Google Chrome.

Inspections are offered Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to noon and 1 to 3 pm. When scheduling inspections, it is required to request either an am or a pm time slot.

Exact times will not be offered. Morning appointments are between 8 am and noon, and afternoon appointments are between 1 and 3 pm. Inspectors will no longer contact those who have requested an inspection, which allows them to leave the office sooner in order to accommodate a greater number of inspections. Instead, their order of inspections will be posted each inspection day.

Only a licensed California contractor or the legal property owner may be issued a building permit.

A building permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing unless the permit has been pursued in good faith or the permit has been issued. Permit applicants may submit a written request for a one-time extension of 180 days in order for their permit application to remain active and not expire. If this period ends without picking up the building permit, plan check fees will be lost and a permit application will need to be started.

The building permit is good for 1 year from the date it was issued. Permit holders may submit a written request for an extension, if needed, prior to the six months. All permits must be posted at the job site in plain view from the public right-of-way during the entirety of the construction project.

Please visit the building department fee schedule at https://www.rpcity.org/DocumentCenter/View/192/Building-Fee- Schedule-Effective-July-1-2025-PDF?bidId=

Plan check review varies from 10-15 business days depending on the project. Each subsequent review will take 10-15 business days.

Rohnert Park residents consistently say they value safe neighborhoods, clean parks, and reliable 9-1-1 emergency response. Like many California cities, Rohnert Park is facing rising costs and external budget pressures that make it harder to maintain the services you expect and deserve. The City is focused on protecting core services, maintaining financial stability, and planning responsibly.

Yes-the City conducted a Fall survey to get feedback on the public's priorities, which are:

• Maintaining 911 emergency response services
• Protecting local drinking water sources
• Maintaining fire protection services
• Keeping parks and public areas clean and safe
• Maintaining disaster preparedness services
• Addressing fire risks from illegal encampments

Our 28 parks and recreation areas are a source of community pride. The City needs additional funding to address needs identified by your neighbors: repairing park bathrooms; maintaining sports fields; and upgrading aging gas, electrical and sewer lines, park lighting, and children’s playgrounds so that children have safe places to play.

Absolutely. Maintaining fast 911 response times and retaining highly trained public safety officers helps protect lives, homes, and neighborhoods. Rohnert Park’s public safety officers are trained to respond to both fire and police emergencies, which improves coordination and response efficiency. Residents have also emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness and addressing fire risks to keep the community safe.

The City is committed to transparency and making informed decisions that reflect community values. Quality neighborhood parks and safe streets, schools, and neighborhoods help maintain and strengthen local property values. Please join the Our Safety, Our Parks, Our Neighborhoods conversation to provide your feedback.

Please complete a Community Feedback survey. If you’re a member of a local organization and would like a presentation, we’d also be happy to arrange that. Community feedback helps shape future outreach, planning, and decision—making please join the conversation, today!

A Slurry Seal is similar to painting an exterior wall of a house. The purpose is to protect the roadway from water intrusion and extend the life of the exisitng asphalt. A Repave is closer to rebuilding the wall. It’s purpose is to repair the structural section of the road.

Waste collection will not be impacted, please place your bins as usual.

Driveways will be intermintantly blocked during construction with at least 3 days advance notice provided.

We apologize for the delay. Occasionally, the contractor may need to adjust the daily schedule to address higher-priority or unforeseen issues. If no construction work has occurred on your street, parking is permitted after 6:00 PM. The contractor will remove outdated signage and repost updated no-parking notices at least three (3) days in advance of the rescheduled work.

The City provides multiple forms of advance notification. Project information is posted on the City’s website and social media platforms. Flyers are distributed to residents in high-impact areas and posted on barricades throughout the project limits. In addition, the contractor is required to post street signage and distribute door hangers at least three (3) days prior to scheduled construction on your street. If a vehicle remains in a posted work zone, the Contractor and City will make every reasonable effort to contact the registered owner to relocate the vehicle before towing becomes necessary.

The City follows its adopted Pavement Management Plan (PMP), which evaluates roadway conditions citywide and prioritizes streets for maintenance based on pavement condition index (PCI), cost-effectiveness, and long-term preservation strategies. Not all streets require full repaving; some receive preventative maintenance treatments to extend pavement life at a lower cost. You may review the Pavement Management Plan here. For additional information on treatment options, please see the “Learn About Pavement Treatment Types” PDF linked at the top of this project webpage.

The City is coordinating closely with Recology and the contractor to minimize conflicts between street sweeping and construction activities. If temporary adjustments are needed, impacted residents will be notified.

If the City and Contractor are unable to reach you to relocate your vehicle, it may be towed to allow necessary construction work to proceed. If your vehicle has been towed, please contact Public Safety at 707-581-2600 for vehicle location and retrieval information.

Please contact Traffic and Streets Manager, Jason Sampietro, at 707-588-2235 or pwprojects@rpcity.org.

Construction will be Monday through Friday, 8am-6pm.