Napa and Sonoma Wedding Permits, Curfews and Rules
February 2026 — 6 min read
Wine country weddings are governed by county use permits, and those permits are specific: how many guests, how many events per year, what time music ends, where cars park.
Questions to ask every venue in writing
Get the answers in the contract, not in an email.
- What is the permitted maximum guest count, including vendors?
- What time must amplified music end, indoors and outdoors?
- Is onsite parking permitted, or is a shuttle required?
- What time must the last vehicle leave the property?
- Are there restrictions on open flame, sparklers or fireworks?
Private property weddings
Marrying at a private home in either county usually requires a temporary event permit, neighbour notification and sometimes a traffic plan. Begin at least six months out; approvals can take twelve weeks.
Why planners care so much
A 10pm curfew changes the ceremony time, which changes photography, which changes hair and makeup call time. Permits are not paperwork — they are the skeleton of the day.
Oasis Weddings & Events plans and designs weddings across Sonoma and Napa Valley. If you are dreaming of a wine country celebration, we would love to hear your story.
Frequently asked
- What time does music have to stop at Napa weddings?
- Most Napa and Sonoma County venues must end amplified outdoor music at 10pm under their use permits, though indoor spaces sometimes allow later.
