Sonoma County increases access to parks with expanded library pass program

Local library patrons will soon find it easier to check out free parking passes to visit more than 60 regional parks, trails and beaches, thanks to an expanded partnership between Sonoma County Regional Parks and Sonoma County Library. 
 
The Board of Supervisors in late April approved Regional Parks’ recommendation to substantially increase the number of day-use parking passes available for check out at libraries countywide. The expanded inventory will help reduce wait times for passes and improve access to the county’s regional parks for library cardholders. 
 
“Libraries and parks are welcoming places where everyone belongs,” said Regional Parks Director Bert Whitaker. “We’re committed to making parks accessible to everyone. This program helps remove financial barriers to outdoor experiences while supporting health, wellness and connection to nature. By partnering with local libraries, we’re using trusted community spaces to help more people discover and enjoy their public lands." 
 
Since launching in 2018, the parks pass partnership has grown steadily in popularity, with demand now far exceeding supply. In 2025, the system’s 100 passes were checked out 921 times, nearly double the previous year’s total. More than 300 holds are currently pending and wait times for a pass often stretch five to six months. 
 
An additional 350 passes will be phased into circulation beginning June 1. The additional passes will first be made available to cardholders on the waitlist.   
 
Passes can be reserved online, similar to the process for reserving a book. Some passes are designated as “Lucky Day” items available for in-person check out at local branches on a first-come, first-served basis. Passes can be borrowed for up to three weeks.  
 
“Libraries are designed to open doors — not only to knowledge, but to experiences people might not otherwise have,” said Library Director Erika Thibault. “This partnership reflects that purpose, creating new pathways for residents to explore, connect and spend time in the spaces that make Sonoma County special. It’s about making opportunity visible, tangible and within reach for everyone we serve.” 
 
The program also is expanding to include the Sonoma County Public Law Library, where 10 parking passes will be available for checkout after June 1. Patrons must visit the Law Library at 2604 Ventura Ave. in Santa Rosa to check out a pass.  

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 Media Contact: 
Tina Luster, Marketing Specialist 
Sonoma County Regional Parks 
Tina.Luster@sonomacounty.gov  
SonomaCountyParks.org