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Planning Code Amendment: Conditional Use Requirement Removed for Formula Retail on Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco

  • When: 2025/05/01
  • Address: Van Ness Avenue between Broadway and Redwood Street, San Francisco, CA
  • City: San Francisco
  • State: CA
  • Category: Zoning Code Modification
  • Subcategory: Process updates
  • Asset Class: Commercial
  • Property Type: Retail
  • Planning Department: True

This ordinance amends the San Francisco Planning Code by removing the conditional use authorization requirement for formula retail uses within the Residential-Commercial zoning districts along Van Ness Avenue, specifically between Broadway and Redwood Street. This change designates formula retail as a principally permitted use in the RC-4 district in this area. The legislative intent is to address high retail vacancies and stimulate the local economy by easing restrictions. The Planning Department affirmed compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, and the Planning Commission found consistency with the City's General Plan and priority policies. The Small Business Commission supported the legislation with a 7-0 vote on March 24, 2025, citing its potential to attract businesses and fill larger storefronts.

Source

City Representative - Andrea Ruiz-Esquide