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New construction · San Rafael

How does the wildfire (WUI) zone affect new construction in San Rafael?

San Rafael parcels in a Fire Hazard Severity Zone must meet California Building Code Chapter 7A — ignition-resistant exteriors, ember-resistant vents, Class A roofing, and defensible space. Hillside parcels across Sun Valley, Dominican, and Peacock Gap are in VHFHSZ — Chapter 7A and Marin defensible-space rules apply.

What changes the answer in San Rafael.

Hillside parcels across Sun Valley, Dominican, and Peacock Gap are in VHFHSZ — Chapter 7A and Marin defensible-space rules apply. Site access in San Rafael can require temporary street-use or encroachment permits depending on street width, on-street parking restrictions, and proximity to schools or transit corridors.

  • Hillside parcels across Sun Valley, Dominican, and Peacock Gap are in VHFHSZ — Chapter 7A and Marin defensible-space rules apply.
  • Chapter 7A material requirements
  • Defensible-space inspection prior to final
  • Site access in San Rafael can require temporary street-use or encroachment permits depending on street width, on-street parking restrictions, and proximity to schools or transit corridors.

Source-backed note

Cal Fire and City of San Rafael Community Development Department — Building Division jointly verify Chapter 7A compliance; the parcel's official FHSZ designation is the controlling input.

Reference: Cal Fire — Fire Hazard Severity Zones — Cal Fire / OSFM

Local authority: City of San Rafael Community Development Department — Building Division

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