Sandbags in Sonoma County: where to find them and how to use them
Sandbags are one of the cheapest flood tools there is, and one of the most misunderstood. They redirect shallow, moving water. They don't seal out rising floodwater, and water can seep through them.
Where to find them
The County posts sandbag assembly stations during weather events on its sandbag page. Its list has included fire stations in Occidental, Monte Rio, Forestville and Geyserville, plus city-sponsored stations in Santa Rosa, Windsor and Healdsburg. Stations are self-serve: sand and bags, but bags aren't pre-filled, and the County asks people to bring their own shovel.
City details we confirmed on official pages:
- Sonoma: self-serve sand at Depot Park, 270 First St. W, from October 20, 2026 for city residents; empty bags at City Hall, limit 10 (City of Sonoma).
- Santa Rosa: sand and bags at 55 Stony Point Road during significant rain events, with ID showing a Santa Rosa address (Rain Ready).
- Sebastopol: free sand and bags behind the Youth Annex, 425 Morris Street, sunrise to sunset, up to 25 bags per resident (City of Sebastopol).
Always check the official page first. Locations and hours change from storm to storm.
How to fill them
- Fill bags about half full. Overfilled bags don't lie flat and leave gaps.
- Fold the top under rather than tying it if you're laying them in a row.
- Wear gloves. Wet sand is heavy, so lift with your legs and work in pairs.
How to place them
- Lay bags like bricks, offsetting the joints, and press each one down.
- Put a sheet of plastic on the water side first if you can.
- Use them to steer water away from doorways, garage doors and low vents, not to wall off the whole house.
Want a local pro to take a look?It's free for homeowners and there's no obligation.
After the storm
Sandbags that sat in floodwater may be contaminated. Ask your city or the County how to dispose of them.
Beyond sandbags
Clear gutters, extend downspouts and sign up for SoCoAlert. Read the full El Niño flood prevention guide.
Sources
- SoCoEmergency: Sandbags
- City of Sonoma: Planning ahead for winter weather
- City of Sonoma: Sandbag filling station
- City of Santa Rosa: Rain Ready
- City of Sebastopol: Sandbags available
Sources checked October 18, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Are sandbags free?
Many county and city stations offer free sand and bags while supplies last. Some cities limit them to residents.
How many sandbags do I need?
It depends on the width of the opening and how high you need to go. Plan for more than you think, and pick them up before the storm.