Our mission is to make San Rafael an exceptional place to live and work.
We're dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community by:
Encouraging Public Engagement: Building enthusiastic partnerships with all community members to spark creativity and involvement.
Supporting Decision-Making: Helping both decision-makers and residents develop and implement policies that balance environmental, economic, and social needs for today and tomorrow.
Streamlining Development: Processing development permits efficiently and ensuring new projects enhance their surroundings.
Maintaining Safety: Ensuring the safety and upkeep of buildings, properties, and neighborhoods through effective code enforcement, public education, and collaboration with other City Departments and agencies.
We’re here to work together with you to make San Rafael the best it can be!
On November 18, 2025, the San Rafael Planning Commission approved a proposal to build new housing at 1248 Fifth Avenue (1230 Fifth Avenue Project), located at the northeast corner of Fifth Avenue and C Street. This development is a California Senate Bill (SB) 330 (2019) and State Density Bonus project. About the Project The project includes:...
The 2025 Triennial Edition of the California Building Standards Code (Title 24) goes into effect on January 1, 2026. For questions or more information, please contact building@cityofsanrafael.org. Submittal Deadlines The building code in effect at the time a complete building permit application is submitted will apply to the project for its entire duration. Due to...
On Wednesday, November 26, the City of San Rafael completed the purchase of the property located at 350 Merrydale Road. This marks an important step forward in its partnership with the County of Marin to provide both interim shelter and permanent affordable housing in San Rafael. With the acquisition finalized, the City and County will...
