DUI Checkpoints in Mendocino County, CA

City	Location	Date
Ukiah	Ukiah – DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location	Friday, August 29, 2025 \| Time not released

Mendocino County, known for its stunning coastline, redwood forests, and wine country charm, draws thousands of visitors every year. From towns like Ukiah and Willits to Fort Bragg and Mendocino Village, the roads here stay busy with locals, tourists, and seasonal workers alike.

In 2024, Mendocino County saw over 60 DUI-related incidents, including 3 fatalities and several injuries. Because many roadways here are rural, winding, and dimly lit at night, impaired driving becomes especially dangerous. To prevent these tragedies, local law enforcement steps up DUI enforcement with regular checkpoints—especially on weekends, holidays, and during big tourist events like wine festivals and coastside concerts.

Most checkpoints are active between 6 PM and midnight, focusing on catching impaired drivers before accidents can happen.

Ukiah – Perkins Street near South Orchard Avenue

Exact Location: Right near shopping centers, restaurants, and bars in the heart of Ukiah.

Agency: Ukiah Police Department

Details: This is one of the busiest DUI checkpoint zones in Mendocino County. It’s usually active during events like First Friday Art Walk or Redwood Empire Fair. Officers check for alcohol and drug impairment, valid driver’s licenses, and expired registrations. Typical hours: 6 PM to 11:30 PM, Friday and Saturday nights.

Willits – Main Street (Highway 101) near Commercial Street

Exact Location: Just off Highway 101, where local traffic and through-travelers mix.

Agency: Willits Police Department

Details: This checkpoint is ideal for monitoring highway drivers, festival traffic, and weekend bar crowds. Officers use signage and cones to guide vehicles safely. This spot is especially busy during summer events and Roots of Motive Power Festival weekends. Officers run checks between 6 PM and midnight.

Fort Bragg – Highway 1 near Oak Street

Exact Location: Right before entering the downtown area near popular seafood restaurants and bars.

Agency: Fort Bragg Police Department

Details: With tourists visiting the Glass Beach, Noyo Harbor, and nearby inns, this spot is perfect for catching impaired drivers after dinner and drinks. The checkpoint runs during summer months and coastal festivals, especially between 5:30 PM and 10:30 PM.

Mendocino Village – Little Lake Road near Lansing Street

Exact Location: Just outside downtown Mendocino near popular B&Bs and wine tasting spots.

Agency: Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office

Details: This checkpoint is usually run during art festivals, wine tours, and wedding weekends. It’s a quieter area, but high-end events bring in visitors who may not realize how strict DUI laws are. Officers monitor for cannabis and alcohol use, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 PM to 10 PM.

Boonville – Highway 128 near the Fairgrounds

Exact Location: Just outside town near the fairgrounds and popular wineries.

Agency: California Highway Patrol – Ukiah Area

Details: This rural checkpoint is used during Anderson Valley wine weekends, county fairs, and holidays. With winding backroads and limited lighting, impaired drivers are a big risk here. CHP officers are on-site with breathalyzers, DREs (Drug Recognition Experts), and support vehicles from 6 PM to midnight.

DUI Penalties in Mendocino County

Getting caught driving under the influence in Mendocino isn’t just a slap on the wrist. Here’s what you’re looking at:

First Offense:

Fines up to $2,000
License suspension for 6 months
DUI classes (3 to 9 months)
Possible jail time (up to 6 months)
Increased insurance rates

Second or Third Offense:

Longer license suspension or revocation
Mandatory jail time
Ignition interlock device required
Up to $10,000 in fines and legal fees

And if someone gets hurt? You could face felony DUI charges—that means prison time.

Tourist DUI in Mendocino County

Tourists, listen up: Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Mendocino County sees a lot of DUI arrests involving out-of-towners, especially during wine tastings, weddings, and festivals. Law enforcement doesn’t go easy on visitors. If you’re caught drinking and driving:

You may have to return to California for court
Rental cars can be towed or impounded
Out-of-state licenses can still be suspended or restricted
You may be hit with costly fines, legal fees, and criminal records

Tip: If you’re wine tasting or partying on the coast, book a local ride service, stay overnight, or assign a sober driver. Don’t gamble with your freedom or someone else’s life.

DUI checkpoints in Mendocino County aren’t just about busting people—they’re about saving lives. Whether you’re a local enjoying a night out or a tourist exploring the coast, be smart and plan ahead.

If you drink, don’t drive. Use a ride service, call a cab, or crash at a nearby inn. That one decision could protect your future—and everyone else on the road.