Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in San Rafael

San Rafael, CA Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Permit type
Minor encroachment permit
Named example
SRMC § 11.04.020
Max duration
One year
Private-property scaffolding
Governed by state building code

Summary

San Rafael, California, in Marin County classifies scaffolding placed over a public sidewalk or street as a temporary encroachment, so contractors need a minor encroachment permit from Public Works before erecting it in the right-of-way.

"Temporary encroachment" means an encroachment which is intended to continue for a specified, limited period of time, not to exceed one (1) year, and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:1.Debris boxes;2.Scaffoldings;3.Tree trimming by private property owners or their contractors;...A temporary encroachment or minor continuing encroachment shall be approved only upon issuance of a minor encroachment permit.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37).

Full Breakdown

Section 11.04.020 of the San Rafael Municipal Code lists 'Scaffoldings' among the examples of a 'temporary encroachment': one lasting no more than one year. Section 11.04.040.010 requires that any such temporary encroachment, scaffolding included, be approved through a minor encroachment permit from the Public Works Director before installation. This rule reaches only scaffolding erected within the public right-of-way, such as over a sidewalk; scaffolding confined entirely to private property is instead governed by the state-adopted California Building Standards Code that Title 12 of this code adopts by reference, not by this section.

Violations & Fines

Erecting scaffolding in the right-of-way without a minor encroachment permit is unlawful under Section 11.04.030.010, punishable as an infraction or misdemeanor and abatable as a public nuisance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this apply to scaffolding on my own property?
No. Section 11.04.020 only reaches scaffolding placed within the public right-of-way; scaffolding kept entirely on private land follows the state-adopted Building Standards Code instead.
How long can a scaffolding encroachment permit last?
Up to one year, since Section 11.04.020 caps a 'temporary encroachment' at that duration.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Rafael

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsBuilding PermitsSome RestrictionsGreen Building CodeSome RestrictionsPlumbing PermitsSome RestrictionsFire Sprinkler RequirementsHeavy RestrictionsElectrical PermitsSome RestrictionsBuilding InspectionsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome Restrictions

All San Rafael rules

California rules heatmap·Compare San Rafael to another location·View the California building safety overview

Get notified when Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed in San Rafael, CA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.