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FAQ Topic: Public Safety

Will I receive a bill for ambulance transportation?

Yes, the Fire Department will send you a bill with a health insurance information request form, so that we can bill your health insurance for the transport. For Residents who pay the paramedic tax any charges not covered by your insurance will be covered by the paramedic tax. For non-paramedic tax paying residents, after a … Continued

What can I do if I’m bothered by someone smoking?

If you feel comfortable, you can ask the person smoking to stop and let them know it’s against the law in San Rafael (if they are smoking in a place where it’s not allowed). If you live in a housing unit that shares a wall with another, you can contact your landlord, property owner, or … Continued

Who handles enforcement of San Rafael’s smoking laws?

Landlords and property owners are required to enforce housing related smoking laws through lease agreements. The County of Marin’s Health and Human Services assists with enforcement. You can reach them at (415) 473-3020. Outdoor smoking laws are trickier to enforce. Although police officers have the ability to issue warnings and citations, they are typically engaged … Continued

Who comes to my house when I call 9-1-1?

If the call is about a fire or a medical emergency, firefighter paramedics are the first responders to your home when you call 9-1-1. Since fire stations are located in neighborhoods throughout the City, the firefighter paramedics can reach your home quickly. If you need to go to the hospital, we’ll get you there.  If … Continued

What is the paramedic tax and how do I pay it?

Residents and businesses located within San Rafael, Marinwood and unincorporated county islands within San Rafael pay a tax for emergency medical services (EMS) as a part of their property tax bill. The tax helps fund emergency medical services including ambulances and paramedics at San Rafael Fire Stations. Residents of San Rafael and partnering jurisdictions are … Continued

I received a traffic citation. What are my next steps?

Traffic If you received a traffic citation, you should receive a courtesy notice (within two weeks) from the court explaining the “bail” amount you can pay and give you details on how to contest the ticket.  If you don’t get a courtesy notice, you are still responsible for contacting the court on or before the … Continued

If I live near open space, does my property have a high fire risk?

Generally, if your property touches open space you are probably located in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). These are areas that combine higher vegetation fire risks with homes and structures. You can find out if your home is located in the WUI by checking this document for your address or call our Vegetation Management Specialist … Continued

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