City offices will be closed on November 27 and 28 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Emergency services are available 24/7. Upcoming community engagement session for the 350 Merrydale Interim Shelter Project on December 9 at Venetia Valley School from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  
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Homelessness

City Response to Homelessness Supporting Unhoused Community Members Report Issues Community Questions About Homelessness
Back Ordinance Regulating Encampments Sanctioned Camping Area Interim Shelter Site at 350 Merrydale Road
Back Frequently Asked Questions

Contact

Daniel Cooperman
Community Services Division Director
(415) 256-5565
endhomelessness@cityofsanrafael.org
1400 Fifth Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901

The City of San Rafael is committed to addressing homelessness with compassion and accountability.

Our goal is to honor the dignity of every person while ensuring that public spaces remain safe, clean, and accessible to all. On this page you’ll find information about City policies, the sanctioned camping program, upcoming plans, and ways to connect with services or report issues. 

Aerial photo of downtown San Rafael
Ordinance Regulating Encampments

Learn about San Rafael’s local camping ordinance, why it was updated, and how enforcement works

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Interim Shelter Site

Information about the interim shelter program at 350 Merrydale Road.

Lynn Murphy talking with a person downtown
Community Questions (FAQ)

Answers to common questions about homelessness in San Rafael.

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Supporting Unhoused Community Members

An overview of local services, programs, and ways residents and businesses can help.

Two people speaking to each other at Marin Housing both at a resource fair
Resources for Renters

Information on tenant protections, rental assistance, and programs to prevent homelessness.

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Sanctioned Camping Area

Information about the Mahon Creek Path site, services provided, and future plans.

News and Updates

December 9 Community Engagement Session – 350 Merrydale Interim Shelter

Posted on November 25, 2025

    The City of San Rafael will facilitate a community engagement session on December 9 to receive feedback on the 350 Merrydale Road Interim Shelter. When and where: December 9, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM Venetia Valley School – Multipurpose Room 177 N San Pedro Rd, San Rafael Your ongoing feedback has already led...
People standing at informational booths in a large room

San Rafael Hosts November Seeds of Hope Service Fair and Luncheon

Posted on November 20, 2025

This week’s Seeds of Hope Service Fair and Luncheon at the San Rafael Community Center brought together over 230 people from across the community. The focus of this event was warm clothing and preparing for the colder months. With the recent rain and chilly weather in San Rafael, participants shared how grateful they were to...

San Rafael Approves Acquisition of 350 Merrydale Road to Launch Interim Shelter & Future Affordable Housing

Posted on November 19, 2025

On Monday, November 17, the San Rafael City Council approved the acquisition of the property at 350 Merrydale Road, paving the way for a major step forward in the city’s strategy to address homelessness. This dual-purpose project brings both immediate relief and a long-term vision for affordable housing. The plan includes 65 private cabins, each...

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