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1. How do I get a copy of my plans?

If you want a copy of plans on file with the Town you need to complete this affidavit, get it notarized, submit it to the Building Department and then they will reach out to the design professional to complete this form.

2. What is my zoning district?

Zoning information is available online  or email the Planning Department at planning@townofsananselmo.org or call 415-258-4636.

3. Where can I find the Town Municipal Code?

The Code can be found online at: https://library.municode.com/ca/san_anselmo/codes/code_of_ordinances

Link to Municipal Code

4. Where can I find information on pending or current planning applications or projects?

If you know the address, you can search for the projects and building permits on the Town's etrakit website. You can browse a list of administrative and Planning Commission applications that have been submitted to the Planning Department on the Town's website.

5. When is the next Planning Commission Meeting?

The meetings are regularly scheduled for the first and third Mondays. Please check here for upcoming meeting packets.

6. Can I have a second unit on my property?

The Town encourages development of Accessory Dwelling Units and residential parcels can usually have a second unit. Visit the Accessory Dwelling Unit page on the Town website. Visit ADU Marin for general information. Or call or email the planning department, 415-258-4636 or planning@townofsananselmo.org. 

7. Where can I report work without a permit?

Most construction work requires a permit from the Building Department and permits are required to be posted on site. Sometimes Planning Department approval is also required. Begin by contacting the Building Department with the address of the property in question to find out if any permits have been issued for the address. The Building Department can contact the property owner and/or inspect from public places or, with permission, from adjacent sites to determine if work is taking place that requires a permit and stop work at the site, if appropriate.

8. How much can I add on to my house?

The Town has floor area ratio limits that apply based on property location (hillside area or flat lands) and lot size. You will need to have an accurate lot size and accurate calculation of your existing floor area. Call or email the Planning Department for the floor area ratio applicable to your site (415) 258-4617 planning@townofsananselmo.org

9. What is the fence height limit?

It depends on the location of the property and the location of the fence on the site. See Zoning Code Minor Exceptions Table 4B. Please contact us with an address for more information:

• Most fences can be up to 6 feet tall with a 2 foot lattice top (for a total height of 8 feet). However, there are many exceptions to this height limit.
• All fences over 7 feet tall require a Building Permit from the Building Department.
• All fences in a public right-of-way require an Encroachment Permit from the Public Works Department.
• Fences located within 20 feet of a front property line or within 12 feet of a street side yard property line require a Fence Permit from the Public Works Department. These fences may be limited in height and/or required to be transparent.  
• Fences in the Bald Hill Area have special design requirements and may be required to be transparent or allow corridors for animal movement. 
• Properties with rear frontages on Center Blvd and Red Hill Avenue have special height limits and may be limited to 6 feet tall, or may be up to 10 feet tall with a 2 foot lattice top.

             

10. How can I find Planning Commission minutes?

View Planning Commission minutes since 2015 here.

Archived Planning Commission minutes are here.

11. How can I find Planning Commission decisions?

The agendas, meeting documents, video and minutes for Planning Commission meetings are here.