The reach of last October’s North Bay fires extended well beyond wine country, affecting industries in neighboring counties and ones outside the state as well. Due to its proximity to the fire zone, Marin took a swift punch in a spot that was already hurting: housing. To help alleviate the pressure of displaced residents from Napa and Sonoma counties searching for dwellings in house-strapped Marin, legislation that incentivizes home owners to build rental rooms in their houses was passed. The Marin County Board of Supervisors decided to waive building and planning fees up to $1,500 until the end of the year for secondary dwelling units. The fee waiver does not apply to owners who benefit from renting units short-term for 30 days or less, and those who do receive the waiver must commit to hosting only long-term renters for the first year.
