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San Francisco Overview
San Francisco Charter
San Francisco Administrative Code
ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
CHAPTER 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS
CHAPTER 2: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
CHAPTER 2A: EXECUTIVE BRANCH
CHAPTER 2B: ASSESSMENT APPEALS BOARDS (TAX APPEAL BOARDS)
CHAPTER 3: BUDGET PROCEDURES
CHAPTER 4: CITY BUILDINGS, EQUIPMENT, AND VEHICLES
CHAPTER 5: COMMITTEES
CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
CHAPTER 7: DISASTER COUNCIL
CHAPTER 8: DOCUMENTS, RECORDS AND PUBLICATIONS
CHAPTER 9A: FARMERS' MARKET
CHAPTER 9B: FLEA MARKET
CHAPTER 10: FINANCE, TAXATION, AND OTHER FISCAL MATTERS
CHAPTER 10A: [REQUEST FOR SHERIFF’S SERVICES]*
CHAPTER 10B: SPECIAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS SERVICES
CHAPTER 10C: REIMBURSEMENT FOR TOWING AND STORAGE OF VEHICLES
CHAPTER 10E: PLANNING MONITORING
CHAPTER 10F: 1660 MISSION STREET SURCHARGE
CHAPTER 10G: BOARD OF APPEALS SURCHARGE FOR PERMITS AND FEES
CHAPTER 10H: RECOVERY OF COSTS OF EMERGENCY RESPONSE
CHAPTER 11: FRANCHISES
CHAPTER 12: HOUSING AUTHORITY
CHAPTER 12A: HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
CHAPTER 12D: MINORITY/WOMEN/LOCAL BUSINESS UTILIZATION
CHAPTER 12E: BAN ON CITY USE OF GAS-POWERED LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER 12F: IMPLEMENTING THE MACBRIDE PRINCIPLES - NORTHERN IRELAND
CHAPTER 12G: PROHIBITION ON USE OF PUBLIC FUNDS FOR POLITICAL ACTIVITY BY RECIPIENTS OF CITY CONTRACTS, GRANTS, AND LOANS
CHAPTER 12H: IMMIGRATION STATUS
CHAPTER 12I: CIVIL IMMIGRATION DETAINERS
CHAPTER 12J: CITY BUSINESS WITH BURMA PROHIBITED
CHAPTER 12L: PUBLIC ACCESS TO RECORDS AND MEETINGS OF NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
CHAPTER 12M: PROTECTION OF PRIVATE INFORMATION*
CHAPTER 12N: LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, QUEER, AND QUESTIONING YOUTH: YOUTH SERVICES SENSITIVITY TRAINING
CHAPTER 12O: EARNED INCOME CREDIT INFORMATION
CHAPTER 12S: WORKING FAMILIES CREDIT PROGRAM
CHAPTER 12X: [REPEALED]*
CHAPTER 12Y: SAN FRANCISCO SLAVERY DISCLOSURE ORDINANCE*
CHAPTER 13: JAILS AND PRISONERS
CHAPTER 14A: DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM
CHAPTER 14B: LOCAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE UTILIZATION AND NON-DISCRIMINATION IN CONTRACTING ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 14C: [EXPIRED]
CHAPTER 15: MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE
CHAPTER 16: OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES GENERALLY
CHAPTER 17: PUBLIC OFF-STREET PARKING FACILITIES
CHAPTER 18: PAYROLL PROCEDURE
CHAPTER 19. COMMUNITY SAFETY CAMERA ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 19A: PUBLIC HEALTH
CHAPTER 19B: ACQUISITION OF SURVEILLANCE TECHNOLOGY
CHAPTER 20: SOCIAL SERVICES
CHAPTER 21: ACQUISITION OF COMMODITIES AND SERVICES
CHAPTER 21A: HEALTH-RELATED COMMODITIES AND SERVICES
CHAPTER 21B: COMMODITIES AND SERVICES RELATING TO PROJECTS ADDRESSING HOMELESSNESS
CHAPTER 21D: FOOD PURCHASES AT HOSPITALS OPERATED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND JAILS OPERATED BY THE SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
CHAPTER 21E: GOODS OR SERVICES CONTRACTS FOR INCARCERATED PERSONS
CHAPTER 21F: SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION SOCIAL IMPACT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM.
CHAPTER 21G: GRANTS
CHAPTER 22: RADIO COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
CHAPTER 22A: INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
CHAPTER 22B: TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
CHAPTER 22C: PUBLIC INTERNET ACCESS
CHAPTER 22D: OPEN DATA POLICY
CHAPTER 22E: CITY-OWNED FIBER-OPTIC FACILITIES
CHAPTER 22G: OFFICE OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGY
CHAPTER 22H: DESIGNATION UNDER HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HIPAA)
CHAPTER 22I: OFFICE OF CYBER SECURITY AND DUTIES OF THE CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER
CHAPTER 23: REAL PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS
CHAPTER 23A: SURPLUS PUBLIC LANDS ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 24: REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
CHAPTER 24A: ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE LOCAL RENT SUPPLEMENT PROGRAM IN THE OFFICE OF MAYOR
CHAPTER 24B: RELOCATION APPEALS BOARD
CHAPTER 25: STREET LIGHTING
CHAPTER 26. DEEMED APPROVED OFF-STREET ALCOHOL USE NUISANCE REGULATIONS
CHAPTER 27: HEALTHY NAIL SALON RECOGNITION PROGRAM
CHAPTER 28: ADMINISTRATIVE DEBARMENT PROCEDURE
CHAPTER 29: FINDINGS OF FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND FEASIBILITY
CHAPTER 29A: APPROVAL OF POWER PLANT; PLANNING CODE SEC. 303(q) CRITERIA
CHAPTER 29B: CHILD CARE FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR CITY AND CITY-FUNDED PROJECTS
CHAPTER 30: CENTRALIZATION OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
CHAPTER 31: CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT PROCEDURES AND FEES
CHAPTER 32: RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION LOAN PROGRAM
CHAPTER 33: COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN
CHAPTER 33A: LOCAL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN (CEDAW)*
CHAPTER 34: NOTIFICATION TO ASSESSOR CONCERNING ZONING RECLASSIFICATIONS OF PROPERTY, CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS AND VARIANCES
CHAPTER 35: RESIDENTIAL, HOTEL, AND PDR COMPATIBILITY AND PROTECTION
CHAPTER 36: COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENTS AREA PLANS AND PROGRAMS
CHAPTER 37: RESIDENTIAL RENT STABILIZATION AND ARBITRATION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 37A: RENT STABILIZATION AND ARBITRATION FEE
CHAPTER 37B: MIDTOWN PARK APARTMENTS
CHAPTER 37C: EVICTION PROTECTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL TENANTS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
CHAPTER 38: COMMERCIAL LANDLORDS; ACCESS IMPROVEMENT OBLIGATIONS AND NOTICE TO SMALL BUSINESS TENANTS REGARDING DISABILITY ACCESS
CHAPTER 39: [RIGHT TO RETURN TO REVITALIZED PUBLIC HOUSING]
CHAPTER 40: HOUSING CODE ENFORCEMENT LOAN PROGRAM
CHAPTER 41: RESIDENTIAL HOTEL UNIT CONVERSION AND DEMOLITION
CHAPTER 41A: RESIDENTIAL UNIT CONVERSION AND DEMOLITION
CHAPTER 41B: COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE ACT
CHAPTER 41C: TIME-SHARE CONVERSION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 41D: RESIDENTIAL HOTEL VISITOR POLICIES
CHAPTER 41E. RESIDENTIAL HOTEL MAIL RECEPTACLE ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 41F: TOURIST HOTEL CONVERSION*
CHAPTER 41G: RESIDENTIAL HOTEL COVID-19 PROTECTIONS
CHAPTER 42: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
CHAPTER 43: MUNICIPAL FINANCE LAW
CHAPTER 44: ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE PLANNING COUNCIL
CHAPTER 45: JURY FEES
CHAPTER 47: PREFERENCE IN CITY AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROGRAMS
CHAPTER 48: RENTAL SUBSIDY PROGRAM FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES
CHAPTER 49: SECURITY DEPOSITS FOR RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTY
CHAPTER 49A: RESIDENTIAL TENANT COMMUNICATIONS
CHAPTER 49B: RESIDENTIAL RENTAL UNITS: LOCK REPLACEMENTS BY LANDLORD WHEN TENANTS VACATE
CHAPTER 50: NONPROFIT PERFORMING ARTS LOAN PROGRAM
CHAPTER 51: VOLUNTARY ARTS CONTRIBUTIONS PROGRAM
CHAPTER 52: SAN FRANCISCO CARBON MITIGATION PROGRAM
CHAPTER 53: URBAN AGRICULTURE
CHAPTER 53A: URBAN AGRICULTURE INCENTIVE ZONES ACT PROCEDURES
CHAPTER 54: SOUTHEAST COMMUNITY FACILITY COMMISSION
CHAPTER 56: DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS
CHAPTER 57: FILM COMMISSION
CHAPTER 58: RIGHT TO COUNSEL IN CIVIL MATTERS
CHAPTER 58A: RIGHT TO CIVIL COUNSEL FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
CHAPTER 59: HEALTHY FOOD RETAILER ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 59A: FOOD SECURITY AND EQUITY REPORTS
CHAPTER 60: ASSISTED HOUSING PRESERVATION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 61: WATERFRONT LAND USE
CHAPTER 62: DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS
CHAPTER 63: WATER EFFICIENT IRRIGATION ORDINANCE*
CHAPTER 64: CITY EMPLOYEE AND CITY CONTRACTOR SAFETY AND HEALTH
CHAPTER 65: RENT REDUCTION AND RELOCATION PLAN FOR TENANTS INCONVENIENCED BY SEISMIC WORK PERFORMED PURSUANT TO CHAPTERS 14 AND 15 OF THE SAN FRANCISCO BUILDING CODE
CHAPTER 65A: COMPENSATION, OR SUBSTITUTE HOUSING SERVICE, FOR TENANTS AFFECTED BY TEMPORARY SEVERANCE OF SPECIFIED HOUSING SERVICES DURING MANDATORY SEISMIC WORK REQUIRED BY BUILDING CODE CHAPTER 34B
CHAPTER 66: SEISMIC SAFETY RETROFIT PROGRAM
CHAPTER 67: THE SAN FRANCISCO SUNSHINE ORDINANCE OF 1999
CHAPTER 67A: CELL PHONES, PAGERS AND SIMILAR SOUND-PRODUCING ELECTRICAL DEVICES
CHAPTER 67B: PARENTAL LEAVE AND TELECONFERENCING
CHAPTER 68: CULTURAL EQUITY ENDOWMENT FUND
CHAPTER 69: SAN FRANCISCO HEALTH AUTHORITY
CHAPTER 70: IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES PUBLIC AUTHORITY
CHAPTER 71: MILLS ACT CONTRACT PROCEDURES
CHAPTER 72: RELOCATION ASSISTANCE FOR LEAD HAZARD REMEDIATION
CHAPTER 74: RENT ESCROW ACCOUNT PROGRAM
CHAPTER 77: BUILDING INSPECTION COMMISSION APPEALS
CHAPTER 78: DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING INSPECTION PERMIT TRACKING SYSTEM
CHAPTER 79: PREAPPROVAL NOTICE FOR CERTAIN CITY PROJECTS
CHAPTER 79A: ADDITIONAL PREAPPROVAL NOTICE FOR CERTAIN CITY PROJECTS
CHAPTER 80: ANTI-BLIGHT ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURE
CHAPTER 80A: ORDERS TO VACATE DUE TO HAZARDOUS HOUSING CONDITIONS
CHAPTER 82: LOCAL HIRING POLICY FOR CONSTRUCTION
CHAPTER 83: FIRST SOURCE HIRING PROGRAM
CHAPTER 84: SAN FRANCISCO RESIDENTIAL RENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR PERSONS DISQUALIFIED FROM FEDERAL RENT SUBSIDY PROGRAMS BY THE FEDERAL QUALITY HOUSING AND WORK RESPONSIBILITY ACT OF 1998 (QHWRA)
CHAPTER 85: THE HOUSING INNOVATION PROGRAM
CHAPTER 86: CHILDREN AND FAMILIES FIRST COMMISSION
CHAPTER 87: FAIR HOUSING IMPLEMENTATION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 88: PERFORMANCE AND REVIEW ORDINANCE OF 1999
CHAPTER 89: DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES
CHAPTER 90: ENTERTAINMENT COMMISSION
CHAPTER 90A: PROMOTING AND SUSTAINING MUSIC AND CULTURE
CHAPTER 91: LANGUAGE ACCESS
CHAPTER 92: REAL ESTATE LOAN COUNSELING AND EDUCATION
CHAPTER 93: PREGNANCY INFORMATION DISCLOSURE AND PROTECTION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 94: THE SAN FRANCISCO PLAZA PROGRAM
CHAPTER 94A: THE SAN FRANCISCO SHARED SPACES PROGRAM
CHAPTER 95: IDENTIFICATION CARDS
CHAPTER 96: COORDINATION BETWEEN THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND THE DEPARTMENT OF POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY
CHAPTER 96A: LAW ENFORCEMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
CHAPTER 96B: POLICY MAKING MARIJUANA OFFENSES THE LOWEST LAW ENFORCEMENT PRIORITY
CHAPTER 96C: POLICE INTERROGATION OF YOUTH - JEFF ADACHI YOUTH RIGHTS ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 96D: PRESENTATION OF YOUTH CASES
CHAPTER 96E [DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DATA REPORTING]*
CHAPTER 96F: COMMUNITY POLICING PLANS
CHAPTER 96G: LIMITS ON POLICE DEPARTMENT USE AND STORAGE OF DNA PROFILES
CHAPTER 96H: LAW ENFORCEMENT EQUIPMENT POLICIES
CHAPTER 97: HEALTHCARE IMPACT REPORTS
CHAPTER 98: THE BETTER STREETS POLICY
CHAPTER 99: PUBLIC POWER IN NEW CITY DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 100: PROCEDURES GOVERNING THE IMPOSITION OF ADMINISTRATIVE FINES
CHAPTER 101: RESTRICTING THE PURCHASE, SALE, OR DISTRIBUTION OF SUGAR-SWEETENED BEVERAGES BY OR FOR THE CITY
CHAPTER 102: OUR CHILDREN, OUR FAMILIES COUNCIL
CHAPTER 103: NON-COOPERATION WITH IDENTITY-BASED REGISTRY ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 104: COLLECTION OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY DATA
CHAPTER 105: CIGARETTE LITTER ABATEMENT FEE ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 106: CITY NAVIGATION CENTERS
CHAPTER 107: CULTURAL DISTRICTS
CHAPTER 107A: AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTS AND CULTURAL DISTRICT
CHAPTER 107B: CASTRO LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, AND QUEER (LGBTQ) CULTURAL DISTRICT
CHAPTER 107C: AMERICAN INDIAN CULTURAL DISTRICT
CHAPTER 107D: SUNSET CHINESE CULTURAL DISTRICT
CHAPTER 109: PRIORITIZING 100% AFFORDABLE HOUSING
CHAPTER 111: HOUSING REPORTS FOR SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
CHAPTER 115: AUTOMATED POINT OF SALE STATION REGISTRATION AND INSPECTION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 116: COMPATIBILITY AND PROTECTION FOR RESIDENTIAL USES AND PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT
CHAPTER 117: COOPERATIVE LIVING OPPORTUNITIES FOR MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM
CHAPTER 118: PLACE FOR ALL PROGRAM
CHAPTER 119: SAFE PARKING PROGRAMS
CHAPTER 120: ADMINISTRATION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING FUNDS
CHAPTER 121: CLOSURE OF JUVENILE HALL
CHAPTER 122: CLOSURE OF COUNTY JAIL 4
CHAPTER 123: LIBRARY LAUREATE PROGRAMS
APPENDIX: Table of Initiative Ordinances and Policy Declarations
References to Ordinances
San Francisco Business and Tax Regulations Code
BUSINESS AND TAX REGULATIONS CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE BUSINESS AND TAX REGULATIONS CODE
ARTICLE 1: PERMIT PROCEDURES
ARTICLE 2: LICENSE FEES
ARTICLE 3: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 4: [RESERVED]
ARTICLE 5: ELECTRICAL MUSICAL DEVICES
ARTICLE 6: COMMON ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 7: TAX ON TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY OF HOTEL ROOMS
ARTICLE 8: SUGARY DRINKS DISTRIBUTOR TAX ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 9: TAX ON OCCUPANCY OF PARKING SPACE IN PARKING STATIONS
ARTICLE 10: UTILITY USERS TAX
ARTICLE 10B: ACCESS LINE TAX
ARTICLE 11: STADIUM OPERATOR ADMISSION TAX
ARTICLE 12: BUSINESS REGISTRATION
ARTICLE 12-A: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 12-A-1: GROSS RECEIPTS TAX ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 12-B: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 12B-1: NEIGHBORHOOD BEAUTIFICATION AND GRAFFITI CLEAN-UP FUND TAX OPTION
ARTICLE 12-C: REAL PROPERTY TRANSFER TAX
ARTICLE 12-D: UNIFORM LOCAL SALES AND USE TAX
ARTICLE 13: CONNECTIONS TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT TERMINAL ALARM PANEL
ARTICLE 14: TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
ARTICLE 15: BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS PROCEDURE CODE
ARTICLE 15A: PUBLIC REALM LANDSCAPING, IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS ("GREEN BENEFIT DISTRICTS")
ARTICLE 16: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 17: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 20: FINANCIAL INFORMATION PRIVACY ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 21: EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION COMMERCIAL RENTS TAX ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 22: PARKING STATIONS; REVENUE CONTROL EQUIPMENT
ARTICLE 23: VEHICLE REGISTRATION FEE EXPENDITURE PLAN
ARTICLE 28: HOMELESSNESS GROSS RECEIPTS TAX ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 29: VACANCY TAX ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 29A: EMPTY HOMES TAX ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 30: CANNABIS BUSINESS TAX
ARTICLE 32: TRAFFIC CONGESTION MITIGATION TAX
ARTICLE 33: OVERPAID EXECUTIVE GROSS RECEIPTS TAX
ARTICLE 36: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 37: FAIR WAGES FOR EDUCATORS PARCEL TAX ORDINANCE
References to Ordinances
San Francisco Campaign and Governmental Conduct Code
San Francisco Environment Code
ENVIRONMENT CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE ENVIRONMENT CODE
CHAPTER 1: PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE POLICY STATEMENT
CHAPTER 2: ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE PURCHASING ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 3: INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
CHAPTER 4: HEALTHY AIR AND CLEAN TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
CHAPTER 5: RESOURCE CONSERVATION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 7: MUNICIPAL GREEN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS*
CHAPTER 8: TROPICAL HARDWOOD AND VIRGIN REDWOOD BAN
CHAPTER 9: GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS TARGETS AND DEPARTMENTAL ACTION PLANS
CHAPTER 10: TRANSPORTATION OF AGGREGATE MATERIALS
CHAPTER 11: CELL PHONE DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS
CHAPTER 12: URBAN FORESTRY COUNCIL
CHAPTER 13: ARSENIC-TREATED WOOD
CHAPTER 14: CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION DEBRIS RECOVERY ORDINANCE*
CHAPTER 15: GREEN BUSINESS PROGRAM
CHAPTER 16: FOOD SERVICE AND PACKAGING WASTE REDUCTION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 17: PLASTIC BAG REDUCTION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 18: SOLAR ENERGY INCENTIVE PROGRAM
CHAPTER 19: MANDATORY RECYCLING AND COMPOSTING
CHAPTER 20: EXISTING BUILDINGS ENERGY PERFORMANCE
CHAPTER 21: CLEAN ENERGY FULL DISCLOSURE ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 22: SAFE DRUG DISPOSAL
CHAPTER 23: DRINK TAP ORDINANCE
CHAPTER 24: BOTTLED DRINKING WATER
CHAPTER 25: CLEAN CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC WORKS
CHAPTER 26: BETTER ROOF REQUIREMENTS
CHAPTER 27: ANTIBIOTIC USE IN FOOD ANIMALS
CHAPTER 28: FLAME RETARDANT CHEMICALS IN UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE AND JUVENILE PRODUCTS
CHAPTER 29: ELECTRIC VEHICLE READINESS IMPLEMENTATION*
CHAPTER 30: RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
CHAPTER 31: ELECTRIC VEHICLE AND CHARGING IN COMMERCIAL PARKING LOTS AND GARAGES*
CHAPTER 32: MANDATORY EDIBLE FOOD RECOVERY
References to Ordinances
San Francisco Fire Code
San Francisco Health Code
HEALTH CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE HEALTH CODE
ARTICLE 1: ANIMALS
ARTICLE 1A: ANIMAL SACRIFICE
ARTICLE 1B: PERFORMANCE OF WILD OR EXOTIC ANIMALS FOR PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT OR AMUSEMENT
ARTICLE 1C: SALE OF ANIMALS
ARTICLE 1D: ANIMAL FUR PRODUCTS
ARTICLE 2: COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
ARTICLE 3: HOSPITALS
ARTICLE 4: DECEASED PERSONS
ARTICLE 5: PUBLIC HEALTH - GENERAL
ARTICLE 6: GARBAGE AND REFUSE
ARTICLE 7: LAUNDRIES
ARTICLE 8: FOOD AND FOOD PRODUCTS
ARTICLE 8A: CANNABIS CONSUMPTION PERMITS
ARTICLE 9: DAIRY AND MILK CODE
ARTICLE 10: MEAT AND MEAT PRODUCTS
ARTICLE 11: NUISANCES
ARTICLE 11A: BED BUG INFESTATION PREVENTION, TREATMENT, DISCLOSURE, AND REPORTING
ARTICLE 11B: HEALTHY BUILDINGS
ARTICLE 12: SANITATION - GENERAL
ARTICLE 12A: BACKFLOW PREVENTION
ARTICLE 12B: SOIL BORING AND WELL REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 12C: ALTERNATE WATER SOURCES FOR NON-POTABLE APPLICATIONS
ARTICLE 14: AMBULANCES AND ROUTINE MEDICAL TRANSPORT VEHICLES
ARTICLE 15: PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS
ARTICLE 16: REGULATING THE USE OF 'ECONOMIC POISONS'
ARTICLE 17: DISPOSAL OF UNCLAIMED PERSONAL PROPERTY AT SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL
ARTICLE 18: PROVIDING FOR ISSUANCE OF CITATIONS TO VIOLATORS
ARTICLE 19: SMOKING POLLUTION CONTROL
ARTICLE 19A: REGULATING SMOKING IN EATING ESTABLISHMENTS [SUSPENDED]
ARTICLE 19B: REGULATING SMOKING IN SHARED OFFICE WORKPLACE [SUSPENDED]
ARTICLE 19C: REGULATING SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES AND IN HEALTH, EDUCATIONAL AND CHILD CARE FACILITIES [SUSPENDED]
ARTICLE 19D: PROHIBITING CIGARETTE VENDING MACHINES
ARTICLE 19E: PROHIBITING SMOKING IN PLACES OF EMPLOYMENT AND CERTAIN SPORTS ARENAS [SUSPENDED]
ARTICLE 19F: PROHIBITING SMOKING IN ENCLOSED AREAS, CERTAIN UNENCLOSED AREAS, AND SPORTS STADIUMS
ARTICLE 19G: ENFORCEMENT OF SMOKING PROHIBITIONS
ARTICLE 19H: PERMITS FOR THE SALE OF TOBACCO
ARTICLE 19I: PROHIBITING SMOKING IN CITY PARK AND RECREATIONAL AREAS AND FARMERS' MARKETS
ARTICLE 19J: PROHIBITING PHARMACIES FROM SELLING TOBACCO PRODUCTS
ARTICLE 19K: PROHIBITING SALES OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS ON PROPERTY OWNED BY OR UNDER THE CONTROL OF THE CITY AND COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO
ARTICLE 19L: PROHIBITING SMOKING AT CERTAIN OUTDOOR EVENTS
ARTICLE 19M: DISCLOSURE TO PROSPECTIVE RESIDENTIAL TENANTS OF WHETHER A UNIT IS SMOKE FREE OR SMOKING OPTIONAL, AND INFORMING EXISTING RESIDENTIAL TENANTS WHERE SMOKING IS OPTIONAL
ARTICLE 19N: ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES - RESTRICTIONS ON SALE AND USE
ARTICLE 19O: [SMOKELESS TOBACCO - USE PROHIBITED AT ATHLETIC VENUES]
ARTICLE 19P: PROHIBITING THE SALE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS TO PERSONS AGED 18, 19, OR 20
ARTICLE 19Q: PROHIBITING THE SALE OF FLAVORED TOBACCO PRODUCTS
ARTICLE 19R: PROHIBITING THE SALE OF ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES LACKING FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION PREMARKET APPROVAL
ARTICLE 19S: PROHIBITING THE SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS IN SAN FRANCISCO
ARTICLE 20: ALKYL NITRITES
ARTICLE 21: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
ARTICLE 21A: RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
ARTICLE 22: HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT
ARTICLE 22A: ANALYZING SOILS FOR HAZARDOUS WASTE
ARTICLE 22B: CONSTRUCTION DUST CONTROL REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE 23: VIDEO DISPLAY TERMINAL WORKER SAFETY
ARTICLE 24: CHLOROFLUOROCARBON RECOVERY AND RECYCLING
ARTICLE 25: MEDICAL WASTE GENERATOR REGISTRATION, PERMITTING, INSPECTIONS AND FEES
ARTICLE 26: COMPREHENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL LEAD POISONING INVESTIGATION, MANAGEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM
ARTICLE 27: HEALTH SERVICE SYSTEM AGREEMENT
ARTICLE 28: MEDICAL CANNABIS USER AND PRIMARY CAREGIVER IDENTIFICATION CARDS
ARTICLE 29: LICENSING AND REGULATION OF MASSAGE PRACTITIONERS AND MASSAGE BUSINESSES
ARTICLE 30: REGULATION OF DIESEL BACKUP GENERATORS
ARTICLE 31: HUNTERS POINT SHIPYARD
ARTICLE 32: DISEASE PREVENTION DEMONSTRATION PROJECT
ARTICLE 33: MEDICAL CANNABIS ACT
ARTICLE 34: HEALTHY PRODUCTS, HEALTHY CHILDREN ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 35: BIOLOGICAL AGENT DETECTORS
ARTICLE 36: CHILD COUGH AND COLD MEDICINE WARNING ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 37: TRANS FAT FREE RESTAURANT PROGRAM ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 38: ENHANCED VENTILATION REQUIRED FOR URBAN INFILL SENSITIVE USE DEVELOPMENTS
ARTICLE 39: COMMERCIAL DOG WALKING
ARTICLE 40: SAFE BODY ART
ARTICLE 41: MENTAL HEALTH
ARTICLE 42: [REPEALED]
ARTICLE 43: SURPLUS MEDICATION REPOSITORY AND DISTRIBUTION
ARTICLE 45: CITY-OPERATED ADULT RESIDENTIAL FACILITY
ARTICLE 46:
ARTICLE 47: ADULT SEX VENUES
ARTICLE 48: REQUIRING RETAIL PHARMACIES TO STOCK OPIOID ANTAGONISTS
ARTICLE 49: SPECIMEN TEST COLLECTION SITES
References to Ordinances
San Francisco Municipal Elections Code
San Francisco Labor and Employment Code
San Francisco Park Code
San Francisco Planning Code
San Francisco Zoning Maps
San Francisco Police Code
POLICE CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE POLICE CODE
ARTICLE 1: PUBLIC NUISANCES
ARTICLE 1.1: REGULATING THE USE OF VEHICLES FOR HUMAN HABITATION
ARTICLE 1.2 DISCRIMINATION IN HOUSING AGAINST FAMILIES WITH MINOR CHILDREN
ARTICLE 1.3: TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON RENTAL INCREASES RENT ROLLBACK BASED UPON APRIL 15, 1979, RENTAL RATES AND REFUNDING ANY RENT INCREASES
ARTICLE 1.5: DISPLAY OF LIFE AND PROPERTY CONSERVATION DECALS
ARTICLE 2: DISORDERLY CONDUCT
ARTICLE 3: GAMES OF CHANCE
ARTICLE 4: PARADES
ARTICLE 4.5: FUNERAL PROCESSION ESCORTS
ARTICLE 5: OFFENSIVE POWDERS
ARTICLE 6: FRAUD AND DECEIT
ARTICLE 7: ANIMALS AND BIRDS
ARTICLE 7.1: HORSE-DRAWN VEHICLES
ARTICLE 8: MINORS
ARTICLE 9: MISCELLANEOUS CONDUCT REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 9.5: PROHIBITING OF PROFESSIONAL STRIKEBREAKERS
ARTICLE 9.6: REGULATIONS FOR SOLICITATION FOR CHARITABLE PURPOSES
ARTICLE 10: REGULATIONS FOR ADVERTISING
ARTICLE 10.1: REGULATING EXPOSURE OF PHOTOGRAPHS, CARTOONS OR DRAWINGS ON NEWSRACKS
ARTICLE 10.2: REGULATION OF COMPUTER RENTAL BUSINESSES
ARTICLE 11: REGULATIONS FOR AMUSEMENTS
ARTICLE 11.1: COMMERCIAL DISPLAY OF DEAD HUMAN BODIES
ARTICLE 11.2: REGULATIONS FOR ADULT THEATERS AND ADULT BOOKSTORES PERMIT AND LICENSE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 12: REGULATIONS FOR AUTOMOBILES
ARTICLE 13: MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS FOR PROFESSIONS AND TRADES
ARTICLE 13.1: JUNK DEALERS - PERMIT AND REGULATION
ARTICLE 13.2 BICYCLE MESSENGER BUSINESSES
ARTICLE 13.3: CAR RENTAL BUSINESSES
ARTICLE 13.4: REDUCING RENTAL-CAR BURGLARIES
ARTICLE 14: LICENSES FOR ADVERTISING
ARTICLE 15: LICENSES FOR AMUSEMENTS
ARTICLE 15.1: ENTERTAINMENT REGULATIONS PERMIT AND LICENSE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 15.2: ENTERTAINMENT REGULATIONS FOR EXTENDED-HOURS PREMISES
ARTICLE 15.3: PROHIBITING NUDE PERFORMERS, WAITERS AND WAITRESSES
ARTICLE 15.4: ENCOUNTER STUDIOS
ARTICLE 15.5: NUDE MODELS IN PUBLIC PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS
ARTICLE 15.6: ESCORT SERVICES
ARTICLE 15.7: EVENT PROMOTERS
ARTICLE 16: REGULATION OF CANNABIS
ARTICLE 17: MISCELLANEOUS LICENSE REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 17.1: REGULATIONS FOR FORTUNETELLING; PERMIT AND LICENSE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 18: SAN FRANCISCO POLICE PISTOL RANGE
ARTICLE 19: DISPOSAL OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY
ARTICLE 20: REPRODUCING AND FURNISHING REPORTS
ARTICLE 21: BAN ON PUBLIC USE OF GAS-POWERED LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT
ARTICLE 22: CITATIONS FOR VIOLATIONS OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE HEALTH CODE AND POLICE CODE
ARTICLE 23: REGULATIONS FOR PORT AREA*
ARTICLE 24: REGULATING STREET ARTISTS*
ARTICLE 25: REGULATIONS FOR PRIVATE PROTECTION AND SECURITY SERVICES*
ARTICLE 26: REGULATIONS FOR PUBLIC BATH HOUSES
ARTICLE 27: REGULATIONS FOR MORTGAGE MODIFICATION CONSULTANTS
ARTICLE 28: REGULATIONS FOR PAWNBROKERS PERMIT AND LICENSE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 29: REGULATION OF NOISE
ARTICLE 30: PERMITS FOR TOW CAR DRIVERS
ARTICLE 30.1: PERMITS FOR TOW CAR FIRMS
ARTICLE 31: REGULATIONS FOR TEMPORARY HELIPORTS AND PERMIT PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 32: REGULATIONS FOR CONDUCTING BINGO GAMES
ARTICLE 32A: REGULATIONS FOR CONDUCTING POKER GAMES
ARTICLE 33: PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION BASED ON RACE, COLOR, ANCESTRY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, PLACE OF BIRTH, SEX, AGE, RELIGION, CREED, DISABILITY, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, WEIGHT, OR HEIGHT
ARTICLE 33B: PROHIBITION AGAINST DISCRIMINATION BY CLUBS OR ORGANIZATIONS WHICH ARE NOT DISTINCTLY PRIVATE
ARTICLE 33K: [EXPIRED]
ARTICLE 33L: [EXPIRED]
ARTICLE 33M: [EXPIRED]
ARTICLE 34: REGULATIONS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS - PERMIT AND LICENSE PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 35: FIREARM STRICT LIABILITY ACT
ARTICLE 36: PROHIBITING THE CARRYING OF A FIREARM WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OR DRUG, OR POSSESSION OF A FIREARM WHILE UPON PUBLIC PREMISES SELLING OR SERVING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
ARTICLE 36A: [SALE, MANUFACTURE, AND DISTRIBUTION OF FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION; POSSESSION OF HANDGUNS]
ARTICLE 36B: STORAGE OF FIREARMS IN MOTOR VEHICLES
ARTICLE 36C: PROHIBITION OF FIREARMS AT PUBLIC GATHERINGS
ARTICLE 36D: GUN VIOLENCE RESTRAINING ORDERS
ARTICLE 37: POLICE EMERGENCY ALARM ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 38: PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF AIDS AND ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS
ARTICLE 39: PEDICABS
ARTICLE 41: PROHIBITING THE SALE OR POSSESSION OF REPLICA HYPODERMIC NEEDLES OR SYRINGES
ARTICLE 42: SALE AND DISPLAY OF AEROSOL PAINT CONTAINERS AND MARKER PENS
ARTICLE 42A: COLOR TIRES
ARTICLE 42B: MERCURY THERMOMETERS
ARTICLE 42D: SALE AND DISPLAY OF PRODUCTS CONTAINING HYDROFLUORIC ACID
ARTICLE 43: ACCESS TO REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
ARTICLE 44: CLOSED CAPTIONS ACTIVATION REQUIREMENT ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 45: FIREARMS AND WEAPONS VIOLENCE PREVENTION ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 46: PROHIBITING SELF-SERVICE MERCHANDISING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS EXCEPT IN PLACES TO WHICH MINORS HAVE NO ACCESS
ARTICLE 47: PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
ARTICLE 48: LASER POINTERS
ARTICLE 49: PROCEDURES FOR CONSIDERING ARRESTS AND CONVICTIONS AND RELATED INFORMATION IN EMPLOYMENT AND HOUSING DECISIONS
ARTICLE 50: CRIMINAL HISTORY IN ADMISSION TO POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
ARTICLE 51: STORMWATER FLOOD RISK DISCLOSURE
ARTICLE 52: OCCUPANT'S RIGHT TO CHOOSE A COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER
ARTICLE 53: REGULATION OF THIRD-PARTY FOOD DELIVERY SERVICES
ARTICLE 55: ACCEPTANCE OF CASH BY BRICK-AND-MORTAR BUSINESSES
ARTICLE 56: MOTOR VEHICLE STUNT DRIVING
References to Ordinances
San Francisco Port Code
San Francisco Public Works Code
PUBLIC WORKS CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE PUBLIC WORKS CODE
ARTICLE 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE 2: PUBLIC CONTRACT PROCEDURE
ARTICLE 2.1: PERMIT FEES AND OCCUPANCY ASSESSMENTS
ARTICLE 2.3: HUNTERS POINT SHIPYARD
ARTICLE 2.4: EXCAVATION IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY
ARTICLE 3: REGULATIONS IN REGARD TO WORKING CONDITIONS
ARTICLE 4: SEWERS
ARTICLE 4.1: INDUSTRIAL WASTE
ARTICLE 4.2. SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT
ARTICLE 4.3: SEWERS
ARTICLE 5: STREET FLOWER MARKETS
ARTICLE 5.1: ANTI-LITTER RECEPTACLES
ARTICLE 5.2: TABLES AND CHAIRS IN PUBLIC SIDEWALK OR ROADWAY AREAS
ARTICLE 5.3: DISPLAY OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES OR NONFOOD MERCHANDISE ON PUBLIC SIDEWALKS
ARTICLE 5.4: REGULATION OF NEWSRACKS
ARTICLE 5.5: DISTRIBUTION OF FREE SAMPLE MERCHANDISE ON PUBLIC PROPERTY
ARTICLE 5.6: POSTING OF SIGNS ON CITY-OWNED LAMP POSTS OR UTILITY POLES
ARTICLE 5.7: HANDBILL DISTRIBUTION ON PRIVATE PREMISES; DISPLAY OF BANNERS
ARTICLE 5.8: PERMIT REGULATIONS FOR MOBILE FOOD FACILITIES CONCERNING PRODUCTS FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION
ARTICLE 5.9: PERMIT REGULATIONS FOR VENDORS
ARTICLE 6: STREET IMPROVEMENT PROCEDURE
ARTICLE 6.1: IMPROVEMENT PROCEDURE CODE
ARTICLE 7: MAINTENANCE DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 9: UNACCEPTED STREETS
ARTICLE 11: SPUR TRACKS
ARTICLE 13: ENGINEERING INSPECTION
ARTICLE 14: UNDERGROUND PIPES, WIRES AND CONDUITS
ARTICLE 15: MISCELLANEOUS
ARTICLE 16: URBAN FORESTRY ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 16.1: TREE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
ARTICLE 17: CONTROL OF DUMPS DISPOSING OF MATERIALS FROM CONSTRUCTION OR DEMOLITION
ARTICLE 18: UTILITY FACILITIES
ARTICLE 19: PUBLIC TELEPHONE BOOTHS ON PUBLIC SIDEWALKS
ARTICLE 20: PROHIBITED BICYCLE ACTIONS AND TRANSACTIONS
ARTICLE 21: RESTRICTION OF USE OF POTABLE WATER FOR SOIL COMPACTION AND DUST CONTROL ACTIVITIES
ARTICLE 22: RECLAIMED WATER USE
ARTICLE 23: GRAFFITI REMOVAL AND ABATEMENT
ARTICLE 24: SHOPPING CARTS
ARTICLE 25: PERSONAL WIRELESS SERVICE FACILITIES
ARTICLE 26*: ILLEGAL DUMPING
ARTICLE 27: SURFACE-MOUNTED FACILITIES
References to Ordinances
San Francisco Subdivision Code
San Francisco Transportation Code
Comprehensive Ordinance List
San Francisco Building Inspection Commission (BIC) Codes
SEC. 107D.1. FINDINGS.
   The Sunset Chinese Cultural District (the “District”) is a robust, culturally rich neighborhood of working class families, many of which are multi-generational, with a special significance to the Chinese American community. In establishing the District, the City acknowledges the importance of recognizing the neighborhood’s history and preserving the legacy and traditions uniquely born in the Sunset. The District will recognize and memorialize the Chinese American experience in San Francisco, and will help to preserve and increase the depth and impact of the Chinese American legacy in the City.
   The growth of the Sunset District as a major Chinese neighborhood is a reflection of government policies, international events, and an influx of immigrants seeking to call the Sunset home. Beginning in 1948, a few pioneering Chinese families moved to San Francisco from around the country, purchased homes, and opened businesses in the Sunset. During the 1950’s and 1960’s, many Chinese families left the crowded tenements of Chinatown – where they were once required by law to live – and purchased affordable single-family homes in the Sunset. Later waves of Chinese immigrants began arriving in the neighborhood in the 1960’s, following the enactment of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which lifted racial quotas and allowed for more non-European nationals to immigrate to the United States. The District saw an influx of Chinese immigrants after China’s 1978 emigration policy reform allowed large numbers of Chinese to leave the country. The 1997 Hong Kong sovereignty change led to another wave of new immigrants, many with sufficient wealth to purchase Sunset district homes.
   According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 1970, the Sunset was still 85% white. But a great migration was beginning. An estimated half of the properties sold in the Sunset in the 1970s were purchased by Chinese Americans. By 1975, 22% of public school students in the Sunset were Chinese American. Today, more than half of all residents of the Sunset identify as Chinese or Asian American.
   The influence and vitality of Chinese culture can be found throughout the Sunset neighborhood. The commercial corridors on Irving, Noriega, and Taraval Streets and Central Sunset are lined with an abundant and unique mix of Chinese-owned businesses, including restaurants, cafes, bakeries, groceries and markets, hair salons, herb stores, and acupuncture clinics, providing the neighborhood with definitive Chinese character. The authentic and delicious Chinese food found in the Sunset is well known throughout San Francisco. The Sunset District offers all of the amenities that Chinese Americans view as part of their cultural heritage, leading people to refer to the Sunset as “Little Chinatown” or “Third Chinatown.”
   Many businesses in the Sunset commercial corridors were not, as of 2020, listed in the San Francisco Legacy Business Registry, which recognizes businesses over 30 years old that have made a significant impact on neighborhood history or culture, but were qualified for recognition. Sunset Super, a supermarket opened in October 1940 and located at 2425 Irving Street, is still thriving and bustling today, providing mainly Chinese and Asian goods. Peking Restaurant at 1375 Noriega Street is family-owned, serving Shanghai and Sichuan food for over 40 years.
   Wah Mei School is a vital part of the fabric and history of the local Sunset District community. Deeply rooted in the Asian American community, Wah Mei means “Chinese-America” and holds historic significance as the first bilingual school in San Francisco. Wah Mei was founded in 1974 by a group of community activists, bilingual educators, and parents, as Chinese American activists found their voice on critical issues in the wake of the Civil Rights Movement. In the 1974 landmark case of Lau vs. Nichols, the Supreme Court held that the school system’s failure to provide supplemental English language instruction to students of Chinese ancestry who spoke no English violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 because it deprived those students of an opportunity to participate in the public education program. Wah Mei School is a San Francisco Legacy Business and an anchor institution that has served generations of San Francisco families. Some 8,500 San Francisco residents have graduated from Wah Mei School. The longevity of relationships in the community is evidenced by the intergenerational cycle of participation; many parents themselves were preschool graduates and their children now participate in the same programs.
   Self-Help for the Elderly is another pivotal institution in the Sunset District serving Chinese American residents. Since 1966, this nonprofit community organization has provided culturally aligned services and programs to promote independence, well-being, dignity and more purposeful lives for seniors. Self-Help for the Elderly’s South Sunset Senior Center at 2601 40th Avenue is dedicated to maximizing self-sufficiency, safety, health, and independence for seniors so they can remain living in the Sunset District for as long as possible with the highest quality of life.
   North East Medical Services (NEMS) operates several health care clinics in the Sunset District, serving a medically underserved population; 93% of NEMS patients are of Asian descent, a majority of whom are uninsured or low-income. NEMS offers linguistically-competent and culturally-sensitive health care services in many languages and dialects, including Cantonese, Mandarin, Toishan, Vietnamese, Burmese, Korean, Spanish, and Hindi. The multilingual and culturally-competent staff help patients to express themselves in a familiar environment. Health education programs, many of which bridge the gap between Western and Asian medical practices, are available at the clinic and through weekly radio broadcasts on local Chinese media. The programs address preventative health care education and practices as it relates to the cultural needs of the community.
   Chinese Hospital is another important part of the Asian medical infrastructure in the Sunset District. It operates the Sunset Health Services neighborhood clinic, located at 1800 31st Avenue, which improves access to outpatient care in the Westside of San Francisco. The hospital has a rich history, dating back to the late-1800s, when it began providing health care services to the underserved Chinese community in Chinatown who faced discrimination and limited access to public services. As more and more patients migrated from Chinatown to other neighborhoods, Chinese Hospital recognized the community’s growing need for improved health care access and opened a number of community clinics.
   Great Wall Hardware, located at 1821 Taraval Street, is a San Francisco Legacy Business established in 1983 by Robert and Mariana Chow. This family-owned store prides itself on having over 20,000 items for sale, including electrical, garden, painting, plumbing, cleaning, hardware, tools, and lumber. Albert Chow is Great Wall’s current owner and son of original owners Robert and Mariana Chow. Born and raised in San Francisco, Albert Chow moved with his family from Chinatown to the Sunset once they had enough money to start the hardware store. Great Wall’s exterior Chinese language sign reflects the large Chinese-speaking population in the Sunset, and the business’s commitment to maintaining Chinese culture in the district.
   The Sunset District is home to a significant number of religious organizations that cater to a diverse array of faiths including Buddhism, Presbyterianism, and Evangelism. Sunset Church, Sunset Ministry, San Francisco Chinese Alliance Church, Hope Evangelical Free Church, San Francisco Chinese Baptist Church, First United Presbyterian Church, and Lutheran Church–Holy Spirit serve diverse and multilingual faith communities, with a history of expanding their missions and congregations to include Asian immigrants. Tzu Chi, in the mid-Sunset, is part of an international Buddhist organization that engages volunteers in providing humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and in addressing health and medical needs, including supplying masks to front-line workers during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
   The Sunset has demonstrated a commitment to celebrating Chinese culture with large public events such as the 2020 Lunar New Year Celebration held at Jefferson Elementary School, which featured live performances and demonstrations by the San Francisco Sunset Ladies’ Dance Team, Wah Mei School, Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, and traditional lion dances by Panda Kung Fu Center. The Autumn Moon Festival (held on Irving Street until 2017) featured booths, merchants, music, traditional lion dance and arts. The Sunset Community Festival is held annually at various locations in the Sunset, such as Sunset Recreation Center and other recreation centers.
   The Sunset is also home to smaller cultural gatherings. At West Sunset Playground, the weekends are filled with traditional and cultural dancers, tai chi, and chi gong. And the tennis courts at Coppin Square and at Parkside Square are a place where local residents gather for group exercise and to be outdoors.
   The history and legacy of Chinese Americans in the Sunset District was featured in the Chinese Historical Society of America’s exhibit called “Chinese In the Sunset,” which has been shown at the Chinese Historical Society of America in Chinatown, the Sunset Recreation Center, the San Francisco Public Library at the Main Branch, Ortega and North Beach branches, and the Western Neighborhood Projects. The exhibit highlights the history of racial restrictions preventing Chinese and other people of color from living in the Sunset; the impact of the 1960’s civil rights movement on racial restrictions and housing mobility; and how the diversity of perspectives within the community have led the Sunset to become the vibrant community it is today.
   In recent years, the Sunset has faced challenges that threaten the long-term sustainability of this uniquely important ethnic community, and the legacy of Chinese Americans in the Sunset is now in jeopardy.
   Most Sunset Chinese households are moderate income immigrant families including a high proportion of multi-generational households. As Sunset District housing costs have skyrocketed over the past decade, fewer moderate income Chinese families have been able to afford to buy a home or rent a family-sized apartment in the neighborhood. The Sunset Chinese community faces an uncertain future, with recent demographic and economic trends potentially leading to long-term displacement and gentrification.
   In addition, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, there has been a disturbing rise in anti-Asian violence and racism in the San Francisco Bay Area, including the Sunset. In response to anti-Asian hate, a March for AAPI Solidarity + Safety event was held on April 18, 2021 at the Great Highway, calling for collective solidarity, community safety, and healing, and demonstrating the Sunset District’s importance as a region for Asian American social activism and direct action.
   Chinese American resilience in the face of racism and discrimination has transformed the Sunset into the dynamic and vibrant neighborhood it is today. Establishment of the District will recognize and honor the important history of the Chinese American community and the contributions of those who transformed the Sunset neighborhood in the past, laying the foundations for its current and future importance to Chinese American culture.
(Added by Ord. 121-21, File No. 210599, App. 8/4/2021, Eff. 9/4/2021)