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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. How do I know if I need a building permit?

View our understanding the permit process guide Understanding the Permit Process

3. What is required for my kitchen and/or bathroom remodel permit?

1. Existing and proposed floor plan with dimensions about the remodeled area. Partial floor plan is allowed, but plan must show adjacent rooms/areas. Show all the proposed work on the plan. Call out any appliances or fixtures to be removed or replaced. For new water fixtures, please complete the Town’s Water Conservation form, available on the Forms page

2. If walls are being demolished, then show the existing framing layout to determine if the wall is bearing or non-bearing. Engineering may be required if the walls are bearing.

3. The plans must meet 2022 California Residential Code (CRC), 2022 California Mechanical Code (CMC), 2022 California Electrical Code (CEC), 2022 California Plumbing Code (CPC), 2022 California Energy Code (CEnC), 2022 California Green Building Standards Code (CalGreen), and the California Civil Code. Contact the Building inspector for any questions or additional information, including requirements for new/altered plumbing (water, sewer, or gas lines) or mechanical (exhaust hood).

4. What is required for my retaining wall permit?

If your proposed retaining wall is less than 4ft tall measured from the base of the footing to the top, usually a permit is not required, and may be built per the Marin County Uniform Construction Standards.

If your proposed retaining wall is greater than 4ft tall measured from the base of the footing to the top, please provide the following:

1. A Site Plan, fully dimensioned, showing the location, extent, and height of the retaining wall in relation to any building, structure, pool, property lines and public utility easements.
2. Detail(s) showing complete construction details with dimensions of the retaining wall. Detail(s) are to be wet stamped and signed by a California registered civil or structural engineer. For segmental gravity retaining walls, the detail(s) must clearly identify the block manufacturer, block type, drainage requirements, and maximum wall height.
3. Structural Calculations wet stamped and signed by a California registered civil or structural engineer (or standardized engineering calculations and ICC ES Evaluation Report for applicable segmental gravity retaining walls). 
4. A Soils Report and engineer’s conformance letter may be required.

5. What is required for my Deck, Stairs, Guardrail, and/or Landing permit?

1. Site Plan showing existing building footprint and the location of new/reconstructed deck/porch/stair with distances to property lines. The site plan shall also contain project information [i.e., title block, project address, owner’s information, scope of work statement).

2. Framing Plan showing size, spacing and span of floor joists and supporting beams/ girders.

3. Foundation Plan showing location, size and depth of supporting individual footings/ piers. Foundation and framing plans can be combined if clarity is maintained.

4. Construction Sections/Details of footings/piers, framing, connections, floor transitions, stairs, guardrails and handrails. Materials used must be provided.

5. If the structure is not designed per the California Residential Code, an engineer’s structural calculations are required. 

6. If the structure is in the WUI, the walking surface material of decks, porches, balconies and stairs shall be Ignition-resistant material, Non-combustible material, or Materials passing performance requirements of SFM Standard 12-7A-4A.

6. What is the fence height limit?

See Planning Department FAQ for fences

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.

Fence height limits

7. What are the approved hours for construction in the town?

Construction, demolition and the operation of miscellaneous noise sources such as vehicle back-up alarms, power saws and other similar noise sources are allowed during the following times:                            

               Monday through Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.;                            

               Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.;                            

               Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.                            

               Work hours may be extended until 8:00 p.m. for homeowners or residents working alone on their own property

No Work is allowed on Holidays Observed by the Town:

November 23rd - Thanksgiving Day

November 24th - Day after Thanksgiving

December 22nd - Christmas Eve 

December 25th - Christmas

December 29th - Half Day New Year's Eve 

 California Municipal Code 

Bald Hill Construction Hours:

Construction, demolition and the operation of miscellaneous noise sources such as vehicle back-up alarms, power saws and other similar noise sources are allowed during the following times: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

See the Bald Hill page for more information. 

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1. Does San Anselmo have any ordinances regarding leaf blower usage?

The updated hours of operation are: 

• Monday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (7:00 am to 5:00 pm for multi-unit and non-residential properties)
  
• Saturday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Sundays and Holidays - no leaf blowers use

This ordinance is enforced by the Town's Code Enforcement & Police Department through verbal and/or written notices. Follow-up actions include warnings and fines of up to $500.

As of June 1, 2023, the use of electric (either battery- operated or corded) landscape equipment will be required for residents, Town staff and Town contractors. 
(adoption of Ordinance # 1173)

Starting January 1, 2024, the use of electric landscape equipment will be required for commercial landscapers as well.

Covered equipment includes, but is not limited to: leaf blowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, edgers, pole saws, chainsaws, and mowers. 
Chainsaws with blades or blade attachments 18 inches or longer and brush cutters are exempted. 

These ordinances will help reduce the Town’s greenhouse gas emissions and protect the health and safety of residents and equipment operators by reducing hazardous air pollutants emitted during the use of gas-powered landscape equipment.

Additionally, starting in 2024, California will be prohibiting the sale of new gas-powered landscape equipment per Assembly Bill 1346. This regulation will help the State achieve its goal of transitioning to 100% zero-emission off-road vehicles and equipment by 2035.

More information is available on the Town's Landscape Equipment webpage.

        

2. What are the hours of operation for Marin Sanitary Service?

Hours of garbage collection are 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. For commercial areas, and selected residential areas between 700 and 1500 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, collection hours are 5:00 am to 6:00 pm.

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1. What is the impact of COVID-19 on the Town’s budget and services?

In April of 2020, Town staff projected a budget shortfall of $730,000 for the upcoming, 2020-21 fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020.[1] The shortfall was due to COVID-caused reductions in sales tax revenue, along with planning, building and recreation fees. These projected reductions will be partially offset by continued property tax growth. The Town Council will review and update its budget after 6 months. To help mitigate the projected revenue shortfall, the Town identified one-time or on-going services and project-related cost reductions coupled with personnel cost reductions. The Town Council reduced staff costs by 1) partial hiring freeze; 2) up to 5% pay cuts for all full-time employees; 3) eliminating “cash outs” of sick leave. No currently filled staff positions were eliminated. The Town’s reserves provided about $27,000 to fill the remaining budget gap. Reserves were reduced to $3.6 million, achieving the Town’s goal of maintaining 20% of the annual General Fund set aside as reserve funding.  Town Hall is currently opening Monday and Wednesday from 8:30 am to noon. [1] Town of San Anselmo Staff Report for 2020-2021 Preliminary Proposed Budget and Work Plan, ITEM 10 for the meeting of June 9, 2020[1] .  Staff Report, June 13, 2020, 2020-2021 Budget and Work Plan, ITEM 9 for the meeting of June 23, 2020

 

2. Why can’t the Town afford to provide a higher level of service, considering the wealth of the community and high home prices?

Property taxes account for about 77% of General Fund revenues, so limited property tax also limits Town resources.[1] Despite high home sales prices, State Proposition 13[1] , approved in 1978, limits increases in property taxes to 2% maximum each year (until property is sold). Many homes are assessed and taxes at values much lower than market sales values, thus property tax revenues do not fully reflect high home values. The Town only receives 26 cents of each property tax dollar;[2] the remainder goes to the County, schools, and other agencies. The Town has few other sources of tax revenue since it does not have multiple shopping malls, big box stores, or other major commercial activities that typically generate revenues. However, the Town must still fund street maintenance, police, fire and other services, while performing essential upgrades to aging infrastructure and facilities. [1] Town of San Anselmo: Budget and Work Plan 2020-2021, pg. 36. [2] Ibid, Town Budget FY2020-2021, pg. 36.

 

3. How much of the Town’s budget goes towards pensions, and what are the potential future impacts on the budget and services from growing pension obligations?

The Town’s budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, spends $2,828,459 for pension costs for past and present employees[1] (including the Town share of police and fire department pension costs), or about 17.17% of its General Fund expenditures. The Town’s existing pension liability is about 75% funded when compared to the value of its pension assets. (2018-19 audit for Misc employees). The remaining 25%, which is currently unfunded, totals approximately $26 million. In addition to general revenues, the Town applies pension taxes totaling over $2 million collected from property owners.[2] The Town also issued a Pension Obligation Bond in 2012 [1] that repaid a portion of its pension obligation; the bond will be paid off by the end of 2021, freeing up revenue to apply to pension costs or other Town priorities. Over the next ten years, pension costs are projected to double,[3]. Town revenues typically rise moderately each year. Unless additional revenues can be found to help address these additional pension costs more of the annual budget will be needed. Inevitably, this will affect operating expenses. In 2019, the Town established Section 115 Trusts for unfunded pension and retiree medical costs, and placed $500,000 into the pension trust fund $100,000 into the retiree medical (Other Post Employment Benefits or OPEB) trust. The Town will add to these trust funds each year. These funds can help in the future to soften the potential impact of pension costs on other services. The Town can augment the trust fund as part of the annual budget process. Further information can be found in a 2019 Ad Hoc Financial Advisory Committee presentation[4] and reports prepared by the Town’s Staff[5] and pension advisor.[6] [1] Staff report March 1, 2018 for the Meeting of March 13, 2018, ITEM 7 - Presentation by Bartel Associates (Bartel 2018).[2] [2] The Town’s pension tax is used to pay for the cost of the employee pension program. The rate is $0.059 per $100 of a property’s assessed value. [3] Town of San Anselmo: Budget and Work Plan 2020-2021, pg. 8. [4] Town of San Anselmo Financial Advisory Committee Report March 26, 2019.[3] [HY4] [5] Staff report March 1, 2018 for the Meeting of March 13, 2018, ITEM 7 - Presentation by Bartel Associates (Bartel 2018).[5] [6] Town of San Anselmo Misc. and Public Safety Plans, CalPERS Actuarial Issues, March 13, 2018.  [RB1] Reference Town’s budget forecast and/or detailed pension analysis.

4. Measure M failed in November 2019, so what is next to finance some sort of renovation of Memorial Park? Is there any money available in our current budget?

2019’s Measure M, if approved, would have issued an $8.8 million dollar bond to be repaid by San Anselmo property owners over 30 years. The bond proceeds would have funded a major [HY1] renovation to Memorial Park as described in the framework for the Memorial Park Master Plan approved by the Town Council [1]. The Town budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020 [does not] list upgrades to Memorial Park.[2]   The Town receives a share of a Countywide Measure A sales tax (1/4 cent rate), or about $90,000 annually; the Council allocates 70% to Memorial Park restoration.[3] A total of about $439,000 has accumulated in the Measure A fund.[4] In addition, in 2021 the Town expects to collect $177,000 in Prop 68 Park Bond funds from the state that can be used for park improvements. The Town is developing plans for utilizing these funds to improve Memorial Park. COVID impacts have reduced the Town’s General Fund reserves to around $3,592,488 or about 21% of the Town’s budget. With this draw down, the reserve fund still [HY3] achieves the Town’s reserve policy goal of 20% of operational costs. Although fund reserves are typically used for emergency purposes, these funds could be drawn down to pay for Memorial Park improvements, and/or other services and capital expenditures. In addition, future revenues could improve and provide additional funds that could be programmed for Memorial Park improvements. [1] Staff Report – Town Council Meeting, Feb. 27, 2018 – ITEM 8 - Memorial Park Master Plan (2) Ibid, Town Budget FY2020-2021, Appendix A. [3] Ibid, Town Budget FY2020-2021, pg. 135. [4] Ibid, Town Budget FY2020-2021, Measure A Parks Tax Fund, pg. 136.

5. What services does the Town share with neighboring cities and agencies? Are there additional options for sharing which could save the Town money and improve its level of service?

The Town shares many functions with other municipalities in Marin County, including sharing police services with two other jurisdictions, forming the Central Marin Police Authority, and sharing fire services with three other jurisdictions to form the Ross Valley Fire Department. The Central Marin Police Authority was established in 2013, and reduces costs to the Town by about $1 million annually from administrative and service efficiencies[RB1] . Fire services to the Town are provided by the Ross Valley Fire Department JPA that includes Ross, Fairfax, and unincorporated Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District. The Town collaborates with Marin’s other ten cities and towns and the County on a range of other programs and services through joint powers authorities and other agreements. More information is included in a summary presentation available on the Town’s website. Exploration and evaluation of additional shared services opportunities is ongoing. For example, the current draft Municipal Services Review proposes expansion of the Ross Valley Fire JPA to include additional cities.

 

6. How much is spent on maintaining roads every year, and who pays for it?

The Town follows a 7-year plan Capital Improvement Plan, which includes an annual program for road maintenance. Each year, roads are prioritized to maximize the benefit of routine maintenance, and also a portion of roads in the worst condition are brought up to standard. Over the past few years the overall average condition of roads has improved according to standard measures. The Town spends between $3 to 4 million every year on road-related maintenance and rehabilitation. Road maintenance is funded by a combination of General Fund revenues, gas taxes and other regional transportation revenues. Town voters approved Measure D in 2013 which increased local sales taxes by ½ cent per dollar of taxable sales; in the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2019 this tax generated about $900,000 in revenue. Measure D is a “general tax” and may be used for any purpose. Its stated intent is to increase maintenance of roads and other capital facilities. The Town’s Capital Program Monitoring Committee (CPMC) annually reviews and affirms the expenditure of Measure D funds for their intended purpose. A description of road funds and other capital maintenance can be found in the report from the Dept. of Public Works to the CPMC. Measure D expires in 2024. To extend the tax will require Council action and approval by a majority of voters.

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1. How do I know if I need a building permit?

View our Permit Guidelines

2. How can I apply for a job with the Town of San Anselmo?

All open positions are posted on our website - on the Employment Opportunity webpage, found HERE

Every applicant needs to submit a completed Town application for consideration. Any applicable supplemental information needed will be stated in the specific job posting. It is very important to follow the instructions to be considered. Applications can be submitted through the by mail, or hand delivered to 525 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960 or by email to hr@townofsananselmo.org. All applications must be received before the deadline.

3. How do I get to the library?

The Library is located at: 110 Tunstead Avenue, San Anselmo CA  94960
Parking can be found on the street in front of the building or behind it in the Town public parking lot.

Directions:
From Highway 101 southbound take the Central San Rafael exit. Turn left on Third Street, heading west to Redhill Avenue / Miracle Mile. At the big intersection, "The Hub," turn left on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. At the second light, turn right onto Tunstead Avenue. Take a quick right onto San Anselmo Avenue, then a quick left onto Tunstead Avenue again. The library is the first building on the right. Parking is on-street or in the municipal lot on Magnolia Avenue (one block past Tunstead off of San Anselmo Avenue).

From Highway 101 northbound take the San Anselmo exit (450B) and follow Sir Francis Drake Boulevard west into San Anselmo. Turn left on Tunstead Avenue, make a quick right on San Anselmo Avenue and a quick left back onto Tunstead Avenue. The library is on the right.

4. I lost a parking ticket or have questions about a parking ticket. What do I do?

For lost tickets:

Call the Marin Parking Authority at 800-281-PARK and give them the license number of the car that got the ticket and they will send you a copy.

For questions about a ticket or additional information:

Central Marin Police - Parking Citation Information website: HERE

5. When do I need a fence permit?

A separate permit (click here to apply) review by Public Works is required for the installation of any fence, privacy wall and/or solid opaque screen planting located within 20 feet of the front property line or within 12 feet of a street side yard property line fronting a street and if it is 6 feet or higher. 

San Anselmo Municipal Code link here (10-3.402 table 4B footnote 3). 

See Fence Permit Diagram for more info.

See the Public Works - Forms and Permit page for more information and updates: HERE

6. How do I register for a recreation class, program or activity?

Recreation Department Information:

To view all of the Recreation Departments current programs and catalog, and to register online, please go to:
www.sananselmorecreation.org or click HERE

7. What are the rules around using leaf blowers and other landscape equipment in San Anselmo?

Leaf Blower & Landscape Equipment Information
As of June 1, 2023, the use of electric (either battery- operated or corded) landscape equipment will be required for residents, Town staff and Town contractors.
(adoption of Ordinance # 1173)

Starting January 1, 2024, the use of electric landscape equipment will be required for commercial landscapers as well.

Covered equipment includes, but is not limited to: leaf blowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, edgers, pole saws, chainsaws, and mowers.
Chainsaws with blades or blade attachments 18 inches or longer and brush cutters are exempted.

Allowed Hours of Operation
The hours of operation have been updated to be in line with other Marin County cities and towns. The new hours of operation are:
•    Monday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (7:00 am to 5:00 pm for multi-unit and non-residential properties)
•    Saturday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
•    Sundays and Holidays - no leaf blower use allowed

Enforcement
Starting on June 1, 2023 and through December 1, 2023, any resident using gas-powered leaf blowers and other gas powered landscape equipment will be issued a warning letter explaining the new regulations per Ordinance 1173.
After December 1, 2023, if a warning letter was already issued, a $100 citation will be issued. If additional violations are reported and confirmed, increasing citations of $200 - $500 may be issued.  
Starting January 1, 2024, the use of electric landscape equipment will be required and enforced for commercial landscapers as well.

More information is available on the Town's Landscape Equipment webpage.

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1. What is the Town of San Anselmo's hiring process?

Once the deadline has passed, all the applications will be reviewed for completeness and qualification. The most qualified applicants will be chosen to interview with an oral board, which is comprised of a small group of persons in the related field. Each applicant selected will meet with the board and will be asked the same set of predetermined questions. Sometimes there will be a written exam as well. Based on the answers, the top three candidates will be asked to return to meet with the hiring manager. A collective decision will be made to offer the position to the best candidate.

2. How can I apply for a job with the Town of San Anselmo?

All open positions are posted on our website. Every applicant needs to submit a completed Town application for consideration. Any applicable supplemental information needed will be stated in the specific job posting. It is very important to follow the instructions to be considered. Applications can be submitted by mail, hand delivered to 525 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960 or by email to hr@townofsananselmo.org. All applications must be received before the deadline:

3. What kind of documentation is required for employment with the Town of San Anselmo?

Depending on the employment position you may be required to have:

• Live Scan finger printing


• A current California driver's license


• A California DMV driving report


• A health physical

You will be required to show proof of ability to work in the United States.

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1. How do I get to the library?

The Library is located at: 110 Tunstead Avenue, San Anselmo CA  94960
Parking can be found on the street in front of the building or behind it in the Town public parking lot.

Directions:
From Highway 101 southbound take the Central San Rafael exit. Turn left on Third Street, heading west to Redhill Avenue / Miracle Mile. At the big intersection, "The Hub," turn left on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. At the second light, turn right onto Tunstead Avenue. Take a quick right onto San Anselmo Avenue, then a quick left onto Tunstead Avenue again. The library is the first building on the right. Parking is on-street or in the municipal lot on Magnolia Avenue (one block past Tunstead off of San Anselmo Avenue).

From Highway 101 northbound take the San Anselmo exit (450B) and follow Sir Francis Drake Boulevard west into San Anselmo. Turn left on Tunstead Avenue, make a quick right on San Anselmo Avenue and a quick left back onto Tunstead Avenue. The library is on the right.

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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.

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1. I lost the parking ticket that I got. What do I do?

Call the Marin Parking Authority - Citation Processing Center at (toll-free) (800) 989-2058 OR

Contact them online: https://www.citationprocessingcenter.com/citizen-search-citation.aspx

2. Where is the Police Department located?

The Central Marin Police Authority is a full service Police agency for the communities of Corte Madera, Larkspur, San Anselmo and portions of Greenbrae. The communities consolidated police services on January 1, 2013 after two years of planning and public discussion. 

Central Marin Police Authority-Headquarters Facility, located at 250 Doherty Drive in Larkspur.  There is a local office located on the first floor of the San Anselmo Town Hall - at 525 San Anselmo Avenue

For more information, click HERE

3. Why can't I park my car on the street overnight?

OVERNIGHT PARKING

The Town has an ordinance which prohibits overnight parking on any San Anselmo street between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. unless a valid, current overnight street parking permit has been issued and is affixed to the vehicle. For more information about the Town ordinance, click on this link: (SA Municipal Code 3-5.1207)

Overnight parking permits are issued by the Central Marin Police Authority, at the San Anselmo station, located at 525 San Anselmo Avenue. Visit the Central Marin Police Overnight parking page for more information.

Parking enforcement is managed by the Central Marin Police Authority. 

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1. What do I need an encroachment permit for?

For all construction activities that take place within the public right of way (i.e., the streets and sidewalks). In addition, encroachment permits are required for non-construction activities within the public right of way including:

• Construction-related storage on the street including placement of temporary toilet facilities


• Placement of a debris box on the street


• Temporary street closures


• Temporary no parking postings

2. When do I need a fence permit?

A separate permit (click here to apply) review by Public Works is required for the installation of any fence, privacy wall and/or solid opaque screen planting located within 20 feet of the front property line or within 12 feet of a street side yard property line fronting a street and if it is 6 feet or higher. 

San Anselmo Municipal Code link here (10-3.402 table 4B footnote 3). 

See Fence Permit Diagram for more info.

See the Public Works - Forms and Permit page for more information and updates: HERE

3. How does the Town decide which streets are going to be paved?

The Town contracts every three years with an independent engineer to do a rating of every street in town. The resulting rating is called the PCI or Pavement Condition Index and is required by state law. A low rating means a street's pavement is in very bad condition, while a high number indicates the street is in good condition. The ratings go from 1 to 100. Streets are selected by the Public Works Director for treatment based upon their PCI rating, and reviewed by the Capital Program Monitoring Committee each year. The Committee then makes recommendations to the Town Council regarding the capital plan for the upcoming year.

Click HERE to apply for all permits

4. Do I need a permit to cut a tree?

A permit is required to remove or significantly prune any heritage tree, any tree on undeveloped property and any street tree.  A heritage tree is defined as a tree with a diameter at breast height (dbh = 4.5 feet above grade) of 22 inches. A permit is required to remove any tree on undeveloped property with a dbh of 7 inches. Pruning is defined as, and limited to, removal of less than 25% of the tree's foliage. An arborist’s report and photograph of the tree(s) are required prior to this application being complete. Application must include at least one photo showing the context of the tree or application may be deemed incomplete. NOTE: Acacia, Eucalyptus, Plum, Privet and Monterey Pine trees are considered nuisance trees and do not require a permit to remove. (S.A.M.C. Sections 4-9 & 4-13) Tree Supplemental Questionnaire required.

Tree Supplemental Questionnaire

Tree Replacement Criteria

Click HERE to apply for a permit

5. Am I responsible for the trees & sidewalks in front of my house?

Yes!

6. When can I use my leaf blower?

Leaf Blower & Landscape Equipment Information
As of June 1, 2023, the use of electric (either battery- operated or corded) landscape equipment will be required for residents, Town staff and Town contractors.
(adoption of Ordinance # 1173)

Starting January 1, 2024, the use of electric landscape equipment will be required for commercial landscapers as well.

Covered equipment includes, but is not limited to: leaf blowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, edgers, pole saws, chainsaws, and mowers.
Chainsaws with blades or blade attachments 18 inches or longer and brush cutters are exempted.

Allowed Hours of Operation
The hours of operation have been updated to be in line with other Marin County cities and towns. The new hours of operation are:
•    Monday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (7:00 am to 5:00 pm for multi-unit and non-residential properties)
•    Saturday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
•    Sundays and Holidays - no leaf blower use allowed

Enforcement
Starting on June 1, 2023 and through December 1, 2023, any resident using gas-powered leaf blowers and other gas powered landscape equipment will be issued a warning letter explaining the new regulations per Ordinance 1173.
After December 1, 2023, if a warning letter was already issued, a $100 citation will be issued. If additional violations are reported and confirmed, increasing citations of $200 - $500 may be issued.  
Starting January 1, 2024, the use of electric landscape equipment will be required and enforced for commercial landscapers as well.

More information is available on our Landscape Equipment webpage.

Show All Answers

1. How do I register for a class, program or activity?

For complete information about the Recreation Department programs, please click: HERE

You can find the current Recreation Activity Catalog and sign up for classes at:     www.sananselmorecreation.org 

2. How do I reserve a picnic area?

Park Picnic Areas & Reservation Information:

For information about our Town Parks and various picnic areas, please visit the webpage HERE

You can visit the online reservation system HERE for Robson Harrington Park and Memorial Park.

3. How do I arrange a tour of the Parkside Preschool Program?

For more information visit the Parkside Preschool Program webpage: HERE

Contact:

Dawn Broadbent-Jones              
Parkside Preschool Coordinator
saparksidepreschool@gmail.com

Phone: (415) 258-4644

4. Where is your office located and what are your hours?

San Anselmo Recreation Department

1000 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, Suite 14
San Anselmo (next to Red Hill Shopping Center).        

Phone: (415) 258-4640
Fax: (415) 455-8229               

Department Email

Office Hours

Monday - Thursday
9:00 am - 12:00 noon
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Closed Friday
We are closed between 12:00 - 1:00 pm for lunch, as well as all Federal holidays.

For more information, visit the website: HERE

5. How do I gain access to the Tennis Courts?

Tennis keys are available for purchase at the San Anselmo Recreation Department Office. The fee for San Anselmo Residents is $41 Jan-Dec/$31 Jul-Dec. Non-Residents pay $98 Jan-Dec/$64 Jul-Dec. It is necessary to purchase a new key at the beginning of each calendar year (January).

6. Where is the Robson Harrington House?

Robson-Harrington Park and House 

Located two blocks from the downtown area
237 Crescent Road
San Anselmo

To reserve the indoor facility, please contact the Recreation Department Facilities Rental Coordinator
at (415) 258-4680.  
To reserve a picnic area online: click here.

Gardens
The Robson House grounds are home to the Town’s Community Garden. Approximately 30 small garden plots are worked by members of the community. For more information on the Community Garden, please contact the Recreation Department: recreation@townofsananselmo.org

7. Who do I contact for Lost & Found items?

To inquire about items left in our parks that may have been picked up by our parks maintenance crew, you can call (415) 258-4601.  Valuables such as smart phones, car keys, etc. may have been turned in to the police department - (415) 258-4610.  Items left at the gymnasium or program classroom may be retrieved by returning to that place during business hours.

8. Where do I find Adult Programs?

Please find this information in the current Recreation Activity Catalog:
www.sananselmorecreation.org

9. How do I register for your programs?

For complete information about the Recreation Department programs, please click: HERE

You can find the current Recreation Activity Catalog and sign up for classes at:  www.sananselmorecreation.org 

10. What are the rules for use for dogs at Town parks?

Click on this link to access  Park Rules and Enforcement - Town of San Anselmo  Exhibit A  Town of San Anselmo - Park Rules and Regulations, including Dog Use Rules in Memorial Park, Additional Rules for Open Space Parks and Robson Harrington Park.