10/10 Update: 516 Canal St. Fire

On the morning of Thursday, August 21st, the San Rafael Fire Department (SRFD) responded to a structure fire at an apartment complex located at 516 Canal Street. Over the past month City staff has been working with service organizations to address the ongoing needs of displaced residents as well as working with the owner to prepare the site for demolition.

Case Management Update:

• As of October 10, only 4 households have not secured permanent housing.

• Of the 3 households currently pending:
  • Two householdshave been approved for units and are awaiting maintenance and repainting before they can move in.
  • The third householdmay either move in with one of the approved families or, if approved for a studio unit (they previously applied for), will live independently.

• The final remaining household of two people-who were previously supported by BHRS-was transferred to Ritter this week for housing support. They have a housing voucher, and so it is anticipated they will be rehoused soon.

The City is grateful for the work and support of the Canal Alliance, Marin Community Foundation, County of Marin, St. Vincent de Paul, Make it Home, Ritter Center, Adopt a Family, and many more for their support.

Investigation:

The cause of the investigation is still pending. There are no other updates at this time.

Demolition of the 516 Canal Street Property:

The owner applied for a demolition building permit (B2509-144) on September 19, 2025. As with nearly all permit applications, it requires the review and approval of several departments to issue the permit, and as of this writing, the demolition permit is still under review.  The City is committed to working with the property owner to issue the permit, so the building may be demolished safely and the site cleared.