Santa Rosa became the largest city in the nation to ban new gas stations on Tuesday, joining other cities in Sonoma County that have led a coordinated effort to combat climate impacts of fossil fuel.
In the latest volley of a locally grown movement that supporters hope will catch on across the nation, the City Council voted 6-0 to ban construction of gas stations and expansion of fossil fuel infrastructure at existing gas stations within city limits.
The new rules will not close gas stations though it will put some limits on current operators.
Santa Rosa has 44 operating gas stations and there are two proposed stations under review at Rincon Road and North Wright Road. Gas stations that submit completed applications before the ban goes into effect in October will be considered by staff.
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/santa-rosa-approv…
Jaak
P.S. - Sonoma County epicenter of this movement:
Petaluma was the first city in the nation to ban new gas stations in 2021, bringing international attention to a local movement that had been gathering steam for years. Sebastopol, Rohnert Park and Cotati have since approved bans and leaders in Windsor are expected to consider an ordinance there on Sept. 7.