Suppliers' Guide

Doing Business with Sonoma County

Welcome! This guide helps new and current suppliers understand how to do business with the County of Sonoma. Our goal is to maintain fair, competitive, and transparent purchasing practices while ensuring the best value for the public.

Purchasing Division

The Purchasing Division:

• Provides supplies and services for all County departments
  Secures goods at the lowest cost consistent with required quality
  Ensures reliable service and support
  Disposes of surplus property responsibly

How We’re Organized

• Purchasing is centralized under the County’s Purchasing Division.
• Buyers are assigned by commodity group and stay informed about new products and technologies.
• Suppliers are encouraged to contact Buyers directly to discuss needs.
• Supplier calling hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (appointments encouraged). Call (707) 565-2433 between 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM to schedule.

What the County Buys

The County purchases thousands of products and services each year to support:

• Administrative and fiscal services
• Criminal justice and human services
• Health facilities, parks, and grounds
• Vehicle fleets, construction, and highways
• Water Agency operations, permits, and licenses

Register in the Supplier Portal and share your product information to ensure you don’t miss opportunities.

Catalogs

Suppliers may provide product catalogs for use by County departments. Please keep catalogs current—outdated versions will be discarded.

Preference for Recycled Products

Sonoma County prioritizes recycled, recyclable, and reusable products whenever possible. This supports environmental sustainability and helps grow the market for eco-friendly goods.

Bids & Procedures

• Competitive bidding is standard practice.
• Online bidding is the primary method; phone quotes may be used when practical.
• Bids must be submitted by the posted deadline.
• Awards are typically made to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder meeting specifications. Other factors—such as delivery time, supplier experience, and eligible discounts—may also be considered.
• Emergency purchases can be made without formal notice or sealed bids.

Important: Presenting products directly to County departments does not guarantee a sale. Purchases are always made through competitive bidding. Pre-purchase services (e.g., demos or designs) should be contracted separately if compensation is expected.

Bid Lists & Registration

The County uses an online purchasing system for all bids and purchase orders.

• Suppliers must register in the Supplier Portal to participate.
• Registered suppliers select bid categories and receive email notifications for opportunities.

Register in the Supplier Portal

This guide is your starting point for working with Sonoma County. For questions or assistance, please contact the Purchasing Division.