New construction · San Rafael
Do I need a soils report for new construction in San Rafael?
A geotechnical (soils) report is effectively required for new construction in San Rafael. City of San Rafael Community Development Department — Building Division uses it to size the foundation, set drainage, and confirm compliance with California seismic provisions on the parcel.
What changes the answer in San Rafael.
Franciscan complex bedrock and colluvium; geotech required for hillside lots. Regional San Andreas system; CGS landslide hazard zones across the steep terrain.
- Franciscan complex bedrock and colluvium; geotech required for hillside lots.
- Regional San Andreas system; CGS landslide hazard zones across the steep terrain.
- Hillside Residential overlays add slope-band density, ridgeline rules, and Design Review Board action.
- FEMA SFHA along Gallinas Creek and bayside areas; verify on FEMA MSC.
Source-backed note
California Geological Survey publishes seismic-hazard and liquefaction maps; parcels inside designated zones require a site-specific geotechnical investigation under CBC §1803.
Reference: California Geological Survey — Seismic Hazard Zones — California Department of Conservation
Local authority: City of San Rafael Community Development Department — Building Division
Get a San Rafael-specific answer for your parcel.
Send us the address and we'll respond with a feasibility note that cites City of San Rafael Community Development Department — Building Division and the parcel's actual constraints — not a generic checklist.
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