Archives: FAQs

What gives you the authority to conduct this work?

The work has been authorized by the Fire Chief under the San Rafael Municipal Code and California Fire Code.

Will crews remove dead wood along the side of the road?

Yes. If crews observe dead trees, downed limbs, or dead vegetation within reach of the roadway, they will remove the debris.

Will the Fire Department be removing trees and vegetation from private property without the owner’s permission?

No, vegetation removal will occur in and from the public right-of-way. If vegetation that threatens evacuation routes is observed outside of the right-of-way, clearly on private property, SRFD will ask permission before removing.

Will the Fire Department be removing mature trees?

Rarely. This program will focus on trimming individual tree limbs, shrubs, and other vegetation that overhangs the roadway. No mature trees will be removed unless a safety hazard is identified by a certified arborist and/or fire officials and it is determined that removal is the only safe option.

A New Approach to Zoning: The “Form Based Code”

The key regulatory component of the Draft Plan is the “form-based code” (Chapter 9). The code serves as the zoning regulations for Downtown and will replace many existing regulations and provisions. Unlike conventional zoning that describe regulations and requirements in text, a form-based code explains and describes regulations using graphics. It combines zoning regulations with desired design approaches that are typically found in advisory design guidelines. The … Continued

How can I pay for my business license when City Hall is closed?

There is a mail drop near the rear doors of City Hall. Otherwise, payments can be made online at Business License Division – San Rafael (cityofsanrafael.org) or via U.S. mail.

What’s in the plan?

The Draft Downtown Precise Plan (Draft Plan) is comprehensive and lengthy. Much of the Draft Plan includes critical (and mandatory) background information that supports the vision and recommendations of the Draft Plan, including existing conditions, demographics, and housing policies. Keep in mind that unlike the greater, overarching Draft General Plan 2040 which is solely a … Continued

What is the Downtown Precise Plan?

For decades, Downtown San Rafael has been the focus of planning studies and actions including Our Vision of Downtown San Rafael (1993); Downtown (SMART) Station Area Plan (2012); “Good Design Guidelines” (2017); and Downtown Parking & Wayfinding Study (2018). All of these efforts share the common goal of maintaining Downtown as the City’s center. During the early … Continued