SAUSALITO, CA — On Monday, May 18, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m., Southern Marin Fire Protection District responded to multiple reports of smoke and flames in the Marin Headlands near the Kirby Cove area. Callers reported seeing white smoke coming from the trees and a small fire on the hillside above the beach.

Crews were dispatched at 8:01 p.m., with the first units arriving shortly after 8:12 p.m. Firefighters hiked approximately 300 yards along the trail to Kirby Beach, where they located a small vegetation fire burning mid-slope in light, flashy fuels.

Firefighters established command, made access to the fire, and initiated suppression efforts, including a progressive hose lay. The incident was managed in unified command with Marin County Fire and the National Park Service. Forward progress was stopped at approximately 8:52 p.m., and the final reported fire size was approximately 0.03 acres.

No injuries were reported in the incident information provided. The cause remains under review. SMFD reminds the public to use caution in open space areas, report smoke or fire immediately, and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire, even when fire danger levels are low.

Incident Commander
Adam Vollmer, Battalion Chief
Southern Marin Fire District
avollmer@smfd.org

Photo ID: Conzelman Vegetation Fire

Photo ID: Conzelman Vegetation Fire from Sutro Tower Camera