News Flash

Planning & Building

Posted on: April 24, 2023

City of Mill Valley to Consider Mandatory Retrofit Program

Soft Story Retrofit Program. Image of a two story apartment building with parking underneath


At their June 5, 2023* meeting, the Mill Valley City Council will consider a new, mandatory “Soft Story” Retrofit Program with an objective of protecting existing housing stock in the community. “Soft Story” structures are typically multi-story residential buildings with open parking or commercial space on the first floor. These buildings, built prior to modern building codes, may sway or sometimes collapse in an earthquake.


The program is important both for public safety and for preserving the diversity of housing options in Mill Valley, including workforce and affordable housing.

The City estimates that as many as 50 to 90 buildings would be considered Soft Story (with 3 or more units) in City Limits. The program would include a screening phase to confirm building conditions and would allow property owners several years to complete a retrofit.

We invite you to learn more:

Please visit www.cityofmillvalley.org/SoftStory 

Contact us if you have further questions:

Patrick Kelly, Director of Building and Planning

Email: pkelly@cityofmillvalley.org

Call: 415-388-4039

* Meeting date is subject to change. Check the City website for more info.

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