Ordinance Regulating Encampments

On August 18, 2024, the City Council passed Ordinance 2040, amending regulations for camping on public property. 

The camping ordinance, effective October 3, 2024, prohibits camping near schools, playgrounds, and public facilities while allowing regulated camping in designated areas. The ordinance aims to protect public health and safety by addressing risks from unpermitted structures,  and aligns with state laws and recent court rulings on homelessness — balancing the need for public space management with the rights of unhoused individuals. 

Requesting Enforcement? 

All requests for camping ordinance enforcement should be sent by email to: EndHomelessness@CityofSanRafael.org. 

Staff coordinate with San Rafael Police, the Public Works Department, and the City’s debris management contractor to add the site to the list for weekly noticing and abatement. 

Details of the Camping Ordinance Regulations 

Camping on public property is permitted in the City of San Rafael, so long as certain campsite size maximums and set-back requirements are met. 

Campsite Size Restrictions 

• Permanent structures prohibited, but temporary items (tarps, tents) allowed if removable and not affixed to property, vegetation, or infrastructure 
• Up to 200 sq. ft. for one person 
• Up to 400 sq. ft. for up to 4 people camping together 

Proximity and Safety Buffers 

• 10-foot clearance between campsites 
• 10-foot setback from public utilities, infrastructure, or private properties 
• At least 5 feet from roadway pavements 

Camping Prohibitions

Camping is prohibited at: 

• All City Parks 
• Falkirk Cultural Center 
• Lindaro Street (between Andersen and Jordan) 
• Mahon Creek Path (between Lincoln and Andersen) 

Camping is also prohibited: 

• Within 100 feet of a playground 
• Within 250 feet of a school 
• On open space properties, parking garages, public facilities, or public rights-of-way/sidewalks (when blocking access) 

Enforcement and Monitoring 

The City enforces the camping ordinance on a weekly basis, notifying non-compliant campsites on Tuesday mornings and scheduling abatement work two days later on Thursdays. Generally, a 48-hour notice is provided, but if not removed, the City may abate the structure directly. Staff continually monitor this approach and make adjustments as needed.  

The City prioritizes voluntary compliance, outreach and assistance. Emergency abatement occurs when there is a significant health or safety risk to the camper or the public.