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San Francisco Approves Ordinance to Streamline Permits for Sidewalk Cafes, Merchandise Displays, and Minor Building Encroachments, Waiving Fees

  • When: 2025/07/15
  • Address: Citywide, San Francisco, CA
  • City: San Francisco
  • State: CA
  • Category: Zoning Code Modification
  • Subcategory: Process Updates
  • Asset Class: Land
  • Property Type: Placemaking

The City Council of San Francisco has approved an ordinance amending the Public Works Code and Administrative Code to streamline approvals for various encroachments in the public right-of-way. This legislation establishes a registration requirement, replacing previous permit requirements and fees for café tables, chairs, and display merchandise on sidewalks. It also eliminates permit requirements and right-of-way occupancy fees for minor appurtenant building features, such as ADA-compliant door actuators, wheelchair lifts, utility fixtures, out-swinging doors, and security gates, when these are approved as part of a building permit. Additionally, the ordinance exempts café tables and chairs and display merchandise from the broader Shared Spaces Program. The measure aims to simplify administrative processes, reduce costs for businesses, and is part of the city's broader PermitSF streamlining effort. The Planning Department's determination under the California Environmental Quality Act was affirmed, and the Small Business Commission supported the legislation with a 6-0 vote.

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