Personal Cultivation

Personal cultivation (up to 6 plants accessory to a residential dwelling unit) is exempt from permit and license requirements in all zoning districts, subject to standards required by Zoning Code Sec. 26-18-125(C)(5).

Personal Cultivation Standards 

1. Personal cultivation must comply with best management practices for cannabis cultivation issued by the agricultural commissioner for erosion and sediment control and management of wastes, water, 
   fertilizers, and pesticides.
2. Outdoor Personal Cultivation 
   (1) Cultivation of cannabis cannot be located within the front and side yard setback areas designated by the base zoning district and cannot be visible from a public right of way. 
   (2) Outdoor cannabis cultivation is prohibited on parcels with multi-family units or in medium and high-density residential zones (R2 and R3). 
   (3) All lighting must be fully shielded, downward casting, and cannot spill over onto neighboring properties.
3. Personal Cultivation – Structures. 
   (1) All lighting must be fully contained so that little to no light escapes at a level that is visible from neighboring parcels. 
   (2) The use of a generator is only allowed in the case of an emergency.

Visit the Permit Sonoma Cannabis Program Zoning and Use Permits webpage for more information.