Mandatory Mediation

Any tenant or landlord eligible for mediation under § 5.55.040 of the Town of Fairfax Municipal Code may request mediation services from the designated service provider.

The Mandatory Mediation program offers an opportunity for landlords and tenants to discuss issues related to increases in monthly rent greater than 5% over a 12-month period.

In mediation, a neutral third-party, called a mediator, facilitates discussion between tenants and landlords with the goal of amicably settling a dispute. Mediation does not guarantee a reduction in any rent increase and tenants are required to pay all rent legally due to the landlord during the mediation process. Both landlords and tenants are required to participate fully in the mediation process. If a landlord does not participate in good faith, the rent increase in question may be deemed invalid.

On November 5, 2024, Fairfax voters approved Measure I, resulting in the repeal of the Town's Just Cause Eviction and Rent Stabilization Ordinances. These local regulations have been replaced by the standards outlined in the California Tenant Protection Act of 2019 and provisions from the prior Town Code. The prior Town Code included a section on mediation services.

Voluntary Mediation

The District Attorney's Office continues to offer voluntary mediation services through its Consumer Protection Unit. The program provides free dispute resolution services to tenants and landlords who seek facilitated conversation of disputes including those relating to repairs, security deposits, and evictions or lease terminations.

These services are available to all rentals throughout Marin, in both incorporated (such as the City of Novato or Town of San Anselmo) and unincorporated areas.