San Francisco has amended its Planning Code and Zoning Map to reduce commercial development requirements in the Central SoMa Special Use District and eliminate the Transit Center C-3-O(SD) Commercial Special Use District. The ordinance removes mandates requiring specific commercial-to-residential ratios for large developments, providing developers greater flexibility in project design. The changes align with San Francisco’s broader strategy to encourage housing production and adapt to shifting real estate demands in the post-pandemic era. The legislation follows high vacancy rates in commercial buildings, particularly in SoMa, and the need for more residential units downtown. With this modification, developers can propose residential-heavy projects without being constrained by previous commercial allocation rules. The city expects this change to accelerate housing development and downtown revitalization.
This zoning modification is a significant step toward revitalizing downtown San Francisco and addressing the housing crisis. By removing commercial development mandates, the city opens the door for more residential projects, reducing office vacancies and increasing housing supply in one of the most transit-accessible areas.