The Public Works Department issues three major types of permits
Encroachment Permits
An encroachment permit is needed to conduct activities in the “public right of way,” which is public property in the City of San Rafael such as driveways, sidewalks, curbs and gutters. You need an encroachment permit if any structure, object or improvement is placed or constructed in, under or over any public right of way.
Transportation Permits
A transportation permit is required anytime a vehicle and/or load exceeds the following legal dimensions, on roads in the City of San Rafael.
Grading Permits
Grading is the removal or deposition of earth material by artificial means. Earth material is defined as any rock or natural soil or combination thereof. Grading is generally a combination of excavation (cuts) and placement (fill) of soil. Common examples of grading include, but are not limited to, construction of driveways, building pads, site improvements or reservoirs, and restoration/stabilization of hillsides, slopes or stream banks.