San Anselmo: defensible space, inspections, and tree permits
By Michael Schuck, ISA Certified Arborist WE-15750A · Updated 2026-10-20
Who inspects, and what they look for
Ross Valley Fire Department (San Anselmo, Fairfax, Ross, Sleepy Hollow), with MWPA evaluations. San Anselmo's Residential Direct Assistance program — Ross Valley Fire crews do fuel reduction out to 100–200 feet for residents with financial or physical limitations — had its environmental clearance filed in January 2026. Sleepy Hollow FPD runs its own Zone 0 vegetation and vent program.
Tree permits and the fire question
Heritage trees at 22 inches DBH on developed lots; any tree at 7 inches on undeveloped lots; acacia excluded (SAMC 4-13). No fire clause — emergency removal only with Fire Chief, Police, or Public Works permission. Violations are infractions or misdemeanors. Because the threshold is high, most defensible-space work on a developed lot is permit-free; the report is for the big oaks and bays.
Programs and money
MWPA Resident Grant, Marin Chipper Days, San Anselmo direct assistance, Sleepy Hollow FPD direct assistance, Senior Measure C exemption. Details and links on the Marin County page and resources.
A typical San Anselmo job
A Sleepy Hollow lot with closed oak canopy over the house and coyote brush and broom running uphill into open space. Prune to clearance, thin the understory to the 3× rule, break up the brush in Zone 2, and use the 22-inch threshold to do most of it without a permit.
Booking
Text or call with the address and the notice or letter. Site consultation $375 ($450 with written opinion), within 7 days. Defensible Space Plan $850. Permit arborist report $750–1,250. Consulting only — no tree work sold or referred. Services and pricing →
Questions we get
Who inspects defensible space in San Anselmo?
Ross Valley Fire Department (San Anselmo, Fairfax, Ross, Sleepy Hollow), with MWPA evaluations.
Can I remove a tree for fire safety in San Anselmo without a permit?
Heritage trees at 22 inches DBH on developed lots; any tree at 7 inches on undeveloped lots; acacia excluded (SAMC 4-13). No fire clause — emergency removal only with Fire Chief, Police, or Public Works permission. Violations are infractions or misdemeanors. Because the threshold is high, most defensible-space work on a developed lot is permit-free; the report is for the big oaks and bays.
What programs help pay for vegetation work in San Anselmo?
MWPA Resident Grant, Marin Chipper Days, San Anselmo direct assistance, Sleepy Hollow FPD direct assistance, Senior Measure C exemption.