Sonoma County renters in the Lower Russian River area gained extended protection from evictions this week after the county Board of Supervisors passed an eviction moratorium.
The ban on evictions follows an emergency proclamation that was passed after atmospheric river storms dumped about 15 inches of rain in parts of the county over the course of a week, starting Jan. 31.
The moratorium includes residents in six ZIP codes that include unincorporated areas of the county such as Forestville, Guerneville, Rio Nido, Monte Rio, Villa Grande and Duncans Mills, according to a press release from the county.
The Board of Supervisors also rescinded a countywide eviction ban that had been passed after the storms for procedural reasons. The countywide ban was initially the only way the board could restrict evictions because the ordinance giving it the authority did not previously allow for targeted restrictions.
Following the change, countywide eviction restrictions will expire on March 27.
Landlords with renters in the ZIP codes of 95436, 95471, 95446, 95462, 95486 and 95430 will be prevented from evicting tenants until Aug. 25, or 30 days after the board lifts the emergency proclamation.
“Renters in low-lying areas have faced multiple floods this winter — not only forcing them from their homes but also disrupting their ability to travel to work,” said Board of Supervisors chair Lynda Hopkins.
“For many, each storm adds another layer of hardship, making it even harder to recover. These eviction protections are a vital safety net, ensuring that no one loses their place to live because of factors beyond their control,” Hopkins said in a press release.
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