The City of San Rafael's Design Review Board consists of design professionals appointed by the City Council to provide advice on new development projects and most exterior changes to existing buildings. The Board evaluates applications based on the San Rafael General Plan with the goal of having new projects harmonize with the natural environment and surrounding area. The five-member Board is advisory, with final permit decisions made by the Planning Division staff, Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission or City Council, depending on the complexity of the project. The Design Review Board welcomes input from members of the public on design issues.
Meetings are held twice monthly, usually on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 7:00 pm in the City Council chambers. Meeting minutes and agendas are available on the City of San Rafael website.