Gravel in Fairfax, CA

In Fairfax and Marin County, delivered gravel prices vary by type and supplier. A typical range for common gravels (crushed stone, pea gravel, decomposed granite) is about $50 to $100 per ton delivered, which translates roughly to $65 to $150 per cubic yard depending on material density and delivery fees. Prices can be higher for decorative river rock or specialty color blends, and minimum orders (Hello Gravel requires 3 tons) and access constraints can increase delivery charges.

For steep, hilly driveways in Fairfax, angular crushed rock (3/4u0022 crushed stone with fines) and stabilized decomposed granite (DG) perform best because they lock together and compact well for traction. Avoid loose, rounded pea gravel or river rock since those roll and shift on slopes; install a proper compacted base, geotextile fabric, and edge restraints for best performance.

Use this quick guide: 2-car driveway (approx 20x24 ft): 2u0022 depth = ~3 to 4 cubic yards (4–6 tons), 3u0022 depth = ~4.5 to 6 cubic yards (6–9 tons). 20x30 patio (600 sq ft): 2u0022 = ~3.7 cu yd (5–6 tons), 3u0022 = ~5.6 cu yd (7–9 tons). 100 ft pathway (assumes 3 ft wide = 300 sq ft): 2u0022 = ~1.9 cu yd (3 tons), 3u0022 = ~2.8 cu yd (4–5 tons). These are estimates; 1 cubic yard of gravel typically weighs about 1.3–1.5 tons depending on material, and Hello Gravel has a 3-ton minimum.

Yes. Hello Gravel partners with local suppliers and contracted haulers in Fairfax and Marin County who deliver decorative gravel. Many local landscape contractors offer installation services, but installation is arranged separately from Hello Gravel deliveries; request delivery details and add installation notes at checkout, or contact our team for local installer referrals.

Because Fairfax has wet winters and hilly terrain, plan for proper drainage: slope surfaces away from structures, install geotextile fabric over compacted subgrade, build a compacted crushed-rock base, and include swales or French drains where water concentrates. Use edge restraints, check dams or terraces on slopes, and larger rock or rip-rap in channels to reduce washouts; regular inspection after storms is important.

Rules vary: Fairfax town regulations, Marin County ordinances, and HOA covenants can all affect front-yard changes. Many HOAs require design review and some neighborhoods restrict visible gravel or certain colors; check with the Town of Fairfax planning department and your HOA before ordering, and consult Hello Gravel if you need documentation for permits or project planning.

Installation costs depend on site access, scope, and preparation needs. For simple spreading over an existing base, expect roughly $10 to $25 per cubic yard for labor and spreading in the Marin area; full driveway installations that include excavation, geotextile, crushed base, compaction, and edging often range from $6 to $15 per square foot. Get site-specific quotes because steep slopes, retaining walls, or heavy excavation can raise costs significantly.

Gravel typically needs top-ups every 2 to 5 years for driveways and more frequently for high-traffic paths; steeper slopes and heavy rain seasons accelerate loss. Local maintenance services commonly include grading and re-spreading, compaction, weed control, topping up, and edge repair; schedule inspections after winter storms to address erosion early.

Tell your supplier and Hello Gravel about gated driveways, narrow roads, overhead obstructions, and preferred drop location at checkout so haulers can plan the right truck and placement. Standard delivery needs 2+ business days and next-day is available if ordered before noon CST; for tight access or steep driveways request a smaller truck or on-site guidance and note that drivers’ ability to tailgate-spread is at their discretion.