Archives: FAQs

Does my neighbor have a building permit?

You can search our permit records online to find out if your neighbor has a building permit.

What is a business license?

A business license is a tax for doing business. The San Rafael Municipal Code requires that you obtain a license to conduct business within the city limits of San Rafael, even if your physical office is located outside city limits. A business license is not a permit. It is not evidence that the holder is … Continued

Why is it important to properly maintain a sewer lateral?

As private laterals age, just as sewer mains do, they can develop leaks, become clogged by fats, oils and grease, and become cracked by roots. This situation leads to sewage spills and overflows, threatening public health and the environment. Defective sewer laterals affect us all.

What is my Zoning District?

Please see our online Zoning Map to find this information. Contact Planning with further questions.

Who is responsible for sewer laterals?

Property owners are responsible for maintaining the entire length of the sewer lateral, including the portion that runs under the street.

Are improperly maintained sewer laterals a more severe problem during winter rains?

Yes. During wet weather, stormwater enters through cracks and breaks, allowing massive amounts of stormwater to enter the public sewer system, causing additional spills and overloading the wastewater treatment process. The result increases the threat to public health, requires costly upgrades to the public system, and has, at times, contaminated San Francisco Bay and its … Continued

How can I avoid having sewer lateral problems?

The simple answer is not to put anything down the drain or in the toilet that could cause problems. This includes: fats, oils and grease, medications, wipes and hazardous liquids. Fats, oils and grease clog sewer lines, and medications and hazardous liquids pose challenges for the sewage treatment process. Also, never connect any storm drain … Continued