Planning Commission 11/10/2026 at 7PM

The San Rafael Planning Commission’s regular meeting on November 10, 2026, approved the sign program for 703 Third Street. The program allows 12 building signs—nine for the residential portion and three for commercial tenant space—with design and placement standards. The commission also heard a request for a major environmental and design review permit for 790 Mission Avenue: an eight-story, 105-unit residential building with 14 below-market-rate units, requiring demolition of an existing commercial building, lot consolidation, density transfer, and multiple development-standard waivers. Commissioners discussed parking, traffic, neighboring properties, affordability, and requested changes to approval conditions. Staff recommended approval with a clarification to condition 54 concerning the timing of development impact fee payments; however, the transcript does not capture a motion or vote on the 790 Mission application.

The commission then began a study session on proposed updates to the city’s environmental design review process, including changes to review levels and notice requirements for housing, commercial development, demolitions, and other improvements. The proposals aim to streamline review for projects meeting zoning standards while retaining options to elevate controversial applications; no action was taken in the portion provided. No procurement activity, purchasing decisions, or government spending awards were identified.