Skip to code content (skip section selection)
Compare to:
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 12S: WORKING FAMILIES CREDIT PROGRAM
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. PUBLIC 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 21H: PROCUREMENT OF FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION
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 22J: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TOOLS
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. [RESERVED]
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 93A: SAN FRANCISCO REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS POLICY
CHAPTER 94: THE SAN FRANCISCO PLAZA PROGRAM
CHAPTER 94A: THE SAN FRANCISCO SHARED SPACES PROGRAM
CHAPTER 94B: ENTERTAINMENT ZONES
CHAPTER 94D: GREATER DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY BENEFIT DISTRICT MASTER PERMITTING FOR ENTERTAINMENT ACTIVATION 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 96I: POLICE DEPARTMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
CHAPTER 96J: PROTECTING ACCESS TO REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
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 110: FORGIVABLE LOAN FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS
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
CHAPTER 123A: LIBRARY READ TO RECOVERY PROGRAM
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 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 AND BUPRENORPHINE
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
PLANNING CODE
THE SAN FRANCISCO CODES
PREFACE TO THE PLANNING CODE
ARTICLE 1: GENERAL ZONING PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 1.2: DIMENSIONS, AREAS, AND OPEN SPACES
SEC. 121. MINIMUM LOT WIDTH AND AREA.
SEC. 121.1. DEVELOPMENT OF LARGE LOTS IN NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS LOCATED IN THE PRIORITY EQUITY GEOGRAPHIES SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
SEC. 121.2. NON-RESIDENTIAL USE SIZE LIMITS IN NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL AND NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL TRANSIT DISTRICTS.
SEC. 121.3. DEVELOPMENT OF LARGE LOTS, CHINATOWN MIXED USE DISTRICTS.
SEC. 121.4. NON-RESIDENTIAL USE SIZE LIMITS IN MIXED USE DISTRICTS.
SEC. 121.5. [REPEALED.]
SEC. 121.6. LARGE-SCALE RETAIL USES.
SEC. 121.7. RESTRICTION OF LOT MERGERS IN CERTAIN DISTRICTS AND ON PEDESTRIAN-ORIENTED STREETS.
SEC. 121.8. [REPEALED.]
SEC. 121.9. SUBDIVISION OF LARGE LOTS, PDR DISTRICTS.
SEC. 122. HEIGHT AND BULK LIMITATIONS.
SEC. 123. MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA RATIO.
SEC. 124. BASIC FLOOR AREA RATIO.
SEC. 124.1. FLOOR AREA RATIO EXCEPTIONS: CHINATOWN.
SEC. 125. FLOOR AREA PREMIUMS, DISTRICTS OTHER THAN NC, C-3 AND MIXED USE.
SEC. 127. TRANSFER OF PERMITTED BASIC GROSS FLOOR AREA.
SEC. 128. TRANSFER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS IN C-3 DISTRICTS.
SEC. 128.1. TRANSFER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS IN THE CENTRAL SOMA SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
SEC. 130. YARD AND SETBACK REQUIREMENTS, GENERAL.
SEC. 131. LEGISLATED SETBACK LINES.
SEC. 132. FRONT SETBACK AREAS IN RTO, RH, AND RM DISTRICTS AND FOR REQUIRED SETBACKS FOR PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENTS.
SEC. 132.1. SETBACKS AND STREETWALL ARTICULATION: C-3 DISTRICTS.
SEC. 132.3. SUN ACCESS FOR SIDEWALKS SETBACKS - CHINATOWN.
SEC. 132.4. SETBACKS, STREETWALL ARTICULATION, AND TOWER SEPARATION IN THE CENTRAL SOMA SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
SEC. 133. SIDE YARDS, RH-1(D) DISTRICTS.
SEC. 134. REAR YARDS IN R, RC, NC, M, CMUO, MUG, MUO, MUR, RED, RED-MX, SPD, UMU, AND WMUG DISTRICTS; AND LOT COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS IN C DISTRICTS.
SEC. 134.1. SITE COVERAGE IN CHINATOWN MIXED USE DISTRICTS.
SEC. 135. USABLE OPEN SPACE FOR DWELLING UNITS AND GROUP HOUSING, R, NC, MIXED USE, C, AND M DISTRICTS.
SEC. 135.1. OPEN SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR USES OTHER THAN RESIDENTIAL IN CHINATOWN.
SEC. 135.2. USABLE OPEN SPACE FOR LIVE/WORK UNITS IN NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS OR EXPANSIONS OF EXISTING BUILDINGS.
SEC. 135.3. USABLE OPEN SPACE FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL USES IN THE EASTERN NEIGHBORHOODS MIXED USE AND DTR DISTRICTS.
SEC. 136. OBSTRUCTIONS OVER STREETS AND ALLEYS AND IN REQUIRED SETBACKS, YARDS, AND USABLE OPEN SPACE.
SEC. 136.1. AWNINGS, CANOPIES AND MARQUEES.
SEC. 136.2. [REPEALED.]
SEC. 136.3. [REPEALED.]
SEC. 137. MODIFICATION OF CERTAIN PLAZAS, ARCADES, AND SIDEWALKS.
SEC. 138. PRIVATELY-OWNED PUBLIC OPEN SPACE (POPOS) REQUIREMENTS.
SEC. 138.1. STREETSCAPE AND PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS.
SEC. 139. STANDARDS FOR BIRD-SAFE BUILDINGS.
SEC. 140. ALL DWELLING UNITS IN ALL USE DISTRICTS TO FACE ON AN OPEN AREA.
SEC. 140.1. COMMON AREA REQUIREMENT FOR EFFICIENCY DWELLING UNITS WITH REDUCED SQUARE FOOTAGE.
SEC. 141. SCREENING OF ROOFTOP FEATURES IN R, NC, C, M, WMUG, WMUO, RED, RED-MX, SALI AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS.
SEC. 142. SCREENING AND GREENING OF PARKING AND VEHICULAR USE AREAS.
SEC. 144. STREET FRONTAGES IN RH, RTO, RTO-M, AND RM DISTRICTS.
SEC. 144.1. MODERATION OF BUILDING FRONTS IN RM-1 AND RM-2 DISTRICTS.
SEC. 145. FRONTAGES, OUTDOOR ACTIVITY AREAS, WALKUP FACILITIES, AND GROUND FLOOR USES AND STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, RESIDENTIAL-COMMERCIAL, NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL, MIXED USE, AND INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS.
SEC. 145.5. GROUND FLOOR STANDARDS IN INDUSTRIAL AND PDR DISTRICTS.
SEC. 146. SUNLIGHT ACCESS TO PUBLIC SIDEWALKS IN C-3 DISTRICTS.
SEC. 147. REDUCTION OF SHADOWS ON CERTAIN PUBLIC OR PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE OPEN SPACES IN C-3, SOUTH OF MARKET MIXED USE, AND EASTERN NEIGHBORHOODS MIXED USE DISTRICTS.
SEC. 148. REDUCTION OF GROUND-LEVEL WIND CURRENTS IN C-3 DISTRICTS.
SEC. 149. [REDESIGNATED.]
SEC. 149. BETTER ROOFS; LIVING ROOF ALTERNATIVE.
ARTICLE 1.5: TRANSPORTATION, OFF-STREET PARKING, AND LOADING
ARTICLE 1.7: COMPLIANCE
ARTICLE 2: USE DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 2.5: HEIGHT AND BULK DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 3: ZONING PROCEDURES
ARTICLE 3.5: FEES
ARTICLE 4: DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES AND PROJECT REQUIREMENTS THAT AUTHORIZE THE PAYMENT OF IN-LIEU FEES
ARTICLE 6: SIGNS
ARTICLE 7: NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 8: MIXED USE DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 9: MISSION BAY DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 10: PRESERVATION OF HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURAL AND AESTHETIC LANDMARKS
ARTICLE 11: PRESERVATION OF BUILDINGS AND DISTRICTS OF ARCHITECTURAL, HISTORICAL, AND AESTHETIC IMPORTANCE IN THE C-3 DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 12: [RESERVED]
PLANNING CODE - INTERPRETATIONS
ZONING MAPS
References to Ordinances
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: VEHICLE SIDESHOWS
ARTICLE 57: SUPERMARKET CLOSURE ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 58: TENDERLOIN RETAIL ESTABLISHMENT PILOT PROGRAM
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
Loading...
SEC. 136.3. [REPEALED.]
(Added by Ord. 345-87, App. 8/21/87; repealed by Ord. 22-15, File No. 141253, App. 2/20/2015, Eff. 3/22/2015)
SEC. 137. MODIFICATION OF CERTAIN PLAZAS, ARCADES, AND SIDEWALKS.
   In C-3 Districts, modifications and improvements of plazas, arcades, and/or sidewalks designed to make the spaces more attractive and useful may be approved, in accordance with the provisions of Section 309, by application of the standards contained in and the guidelines adopted pursuant to Section 138 and Section 138.1 of this Code and the objectives and policies of the Downtown Plan, a component of the General Plan, or any amendment thereto, notwithstanding the fact that such modifications and improvements would not have been permitted under former Sections 126(b)(5) and (b)(7) of this Code.
(Added by Ord. 414-85, App. 9/17/85; amended by Ord. 314-95, App. 10/6/95; Ord. 188-15 , File No. 150871, App. 11/4/2015, Eff. 12/4/2015)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
Section amended; Ord. 188-15 , Eff. 12/4/2015.
SEC. 138. PRIVATELY-OWNED PUBLIC OPEN SPACE (POPOS) REQUIREMENTS.
New Ordinance Notice
Publisher's Note: This section has been AMENDED by new legislation (Ord. 47-21 , approved 4/16/2021, effective 5/17/2021). The text of the amendment will be incorporated under the new section number when the amending legislation is effective.
(See Interpretations related to this Section.)
   (a)   Applicability. The following projects shall provide open space in the amount and in accordance with the standards set forth in this Section:
      (1)   In C-3 Districts, any project proposing new construction of a Non-Residential building or an addition of Gross Floor Area equal to 20% or more of an existing Non-Residential building. Institutional and Residential Uses in C-3 Districts are exempt from the requirements of this Section 138.
      (2)   In the Central SoMa Special Use District, any project proposing new construction or an addition of 50,000 gross square feet or more of Non-Residential use. Retail, Institutional, and PDR uses in the Central SoMa Special Use District are exempt from the requirements of this Section 138.
   (b)   Amount Required. Open space shall be provided in the amounts specified in Table 138.
 
Table 138
Minimum Amount of Open Space Required
Use District
Ratio of Square Feet of Open Space to Gross Floor Area with Open Space Requirement
C-3-O
1:50
C-3-R
1:100
C-3-G
1:50
C-3-S
1:50
C-3-O (SD)
1:50
Central SoMa Special Use District
1:50
 
   (c)   Location. The open space required by this Section may be on the same site as the project for which the permit is sought, or within 900 feet of it on either private property or, with the approval of all relevant public agencies, public property, provided that all open space required by this Section for a project within the C-3 District shall be located entirely within the C-3 District. Projects within the Central SoMa Special Use District may provide the open space required by this Section 138 within one-half mile of the project if the required open space is on publicly-owned land underneath or adjacent to the I-80 freeway. Open space is within 900 feet of the building for which the permit is sought within the meaning of this Section 138 if any portion of the project is located within 900 feet of any portion of the open space. Off-site open space shall be developed and open for use prior to issuance of a first certificate of occupancy, as defined in Section 401 of this Code, of the project whose open space requirement is being met off-site. Failure to comply with the requirements of this subsection (c) shall be grounds for enforcement under this Code, including but not limited to the provisions of Sections 176 and 176.1.
   (d)   Types and Standards of Open Space.
      (1)   C-3 Districts. In C-3 Districts, except as otherwise provided in subsection (f), the project may satisfy the requirements of this Section by providing one or more of the following types of open space: A plaza, an urban park, an urban garden, a view terrace, a sun terrace, a greenhouse, a small sitting area (a “snippet”), an atrium, an indoor park, or a public sitting area in a galleria, in an arcade, in a public street or alley, or in a pedestrian mall or walkway, as more particularly defined in the table entitled “Guidelines for Open Space” in the Open Space Section of the Downtown Plan, or any amendments thereto, provided that the open space meets the following minimum standards. The open space shall:
         (A)   Be of adequate size;
         (B)   Be situated in such locations and provide such ingress and egress as will make the area easily accessible to the general public;
         (C)   Be well-designed, and where appropriate, be landscaped;
         (D)   Be protected from uncomfortable wind;
         (E)   Incorporate various features, including ample seating and, if appropriate, access to food service, which will enhance public use of the area;
         (F)   Have adequate access to sunlight if sunlight access is appropriate to the type of area;
         (G)   Be well-lighted if the area is of the type requiring artificial illumination;
         (H)   Be open to the public at times when it is reasonable to expect substantial public use;
         (I)   Be designed to enhance user safety and security;
         (J)   If the open space is on private property, provide toilet facilities open to the public; and
         (K)   Have at least 75 percent of the total open space approved be open to the public during all daylight hours.
      (2)   Central SoMa Special Use District. In the Central SoMa Special Use District, a project shall satisfy the requirements listed below, as well as the approval process described in subsection (e):
         (A)   Projects shall meet the minimum standards of subsection (1).
         (B)   Projects may provide open spaces outdoors or indoors, subject to Commission review pursuant to subsection (e) below or may pay the in-lieu fee as set forth in Section 426, except that development on sites of 40,000 square feet or more and located south of Bryant Street shall provide the required open space outdoors and may not pay an in-lieu fee.
         (C)   All open space provided shall be at street grade up to an amount that equals 15 percent of the lot area. Any additional required open space may be provided above street grade.
         (D)   All open space shall be publicly accessible, at a minimum, from 7AM to 6PM every day.
         (E)   All outdoor open space provided at street grade, except space provided underneath the I-80 freeway, shall meet the following requirements:
            (i)   The open space shall be open to the sky, except for obstructions permitted by Section 136 and up to 10% of space that may be covered by a cantilevered portion of the building if the space has a minimum height of 20 feet;
            (ii)   Any buildings on the subject property that directly abut the open space shall meet the active space requirements of Section 145.1; and
            (iii)   The open space shall be maximally landscaped with plantings on horizontal and vertical surfaces, subject to the appropriate design for circulation routes and any recreational or public amenities provided. Such plantings may include, but are not limited to living walls, stormwater gardens, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
         (F)   All indoor open spaces provided at street grade shall:
            (i)   Have a minimum area of 2,500 square feet;
            (ii)   Have a minimum floor-to-ceiling height of 20 feet for at least 75% of the space;
            (iii)   Provide openings directly to a sidewalk or other publicly-accessible outdoor space and, weather permitting, be accessible without the need to open doors;
            (iv)   Be situated, designed, and programmed distinctly from building lobbies or other private entrances to the building;
         (G)   Projects shall make efforts to include at least one publicly-accessible potable water source convenient for drinking and filling of water bottles.
         (H)   Any food service area provided in the required open space shall occupy no more than 20% of the open space;
         (I)   Any restaurant seating shall not take up more than 20% of the seating and tables provided in the required open space; and
         (J)   All spaces shall facilitate three-stream waste sorting and collection.
   (e)   Approval of Open Space Type and Features.
      (1)   In C-3 Districts, the type, size, location, physical access, seating and table requirements, landscaping, availability of commercial services, sunlight and wind conditions and hours of public access shall be reviewed and approved in accordance with the provisions of Section 309, and shall generally conform to the “Guidelines for Open Space in the Open Space Section of the Downtown Plan, or any amendments thereto.
      The Commission may, by resolution, declare certain types of open space ineligible to meet the requirements of this Section 138, either throughout C-3 Districts or in certain defined areas, if it determines that a disproportionate number of certain types of open space or an insufficient number of parks and plazas is being provided to meet the public need for open space and recreational uses. Such resolution may exempt from its application projects whose permit applications are on file with the Planning Department.
      Over time, no more than 20 percent of POPOS in the C-3 Districts shall be indoor space and at least 80 percent shall be outdoor space. Once an indoor space has been approved, another such feature may not be approved until the total square footage of outdoor open space features approved under this subsection exceeds 80 percent of the total square footage of all open spaces approved under this subsection.
      (2)   In the Central SoMa Special Use District, all determinations concerning the adequacy of the location, amount, amenities, design, and implementation of open space required by this Section shall be made in accordance with the provisions of Section 329 and subsection (d)(2), above. As part of this determination, the Planning Commission shall consider the ability of the open space to meet the open space, greening, and community needs of the neighborhood, as follows:
         (A)   Location. The provision of outdoor space, including off-site, should be given preference over the provision of indoor space and/or the payment of the in-lieu fee. The Commission may approve the provision of indoor space and/or the payment of the in-lieu fee only where the provision of outdoor space would:
            (i)   Be subject to substantially negative or unpleasant environmental conditions, such as noise, wind, or lack of access to direct sunlight; and/or
            (ii)   Where provision of the open space outdoors would substantially degrade the street wall or otherwise undermine the pedestrian experience.
         (B)   Amenities. The type of amenities provided shall take into consideration and complement the amenities currently and foreseeably provided in nearby publicly-accessible open spaces and recreational facilities, both publicly and privately owned, with a preference given to provision of amenities and types of spaces lacking or over-utilized in the area.
         (C)   Community Needs. The Commission shall consider the extent to which the open space serves the open space and recreational needs of the diverse inhabitants of the Central SoMa Special Use District, including but not limited to residents, youth, families, workers, and seniors.
   (f)   Open Space Provider. The open space required by this Section may be provided individually by the project sponsor or jointly by the project sponsor and other project sponsors, provided, that each square foot of jointly developed open space may count toward only one sponsor’s requirement. With the approval of the Planning Commission, a public or private agency may develop and maintain the open space, provided that (i) the project sponsor or sponsors pay for the cost of development of the number of square feet the project sponsor is required to provide, (ii) provision satisfactory to the Commission is made for the continued maintenance of the open space for the actual lifetime of the building giving rise to the open space requirement, and (iii) the Commission finds that there is reasonable assurance that the open space to be developed by such agency will be developed and open for use by the time the building, the open space requirement of which is being met by the payment, is ready for occupancy. Property owners providing open space under this section will hold harmless the City and County of San Francisco, its officers, agents and employees, from any damage or injury caused by the design, construction, use, or maintenance of open space. Property owners are solely liable for any damage or loss occasioned by any act or negligence in respect to the design, construction, use, or maintenance of the open space. Operation and maintenance of this open space shall be memorialized by a POPOS Operations Strategy developed by the Project Sponsor or Open Space Provider; a draft of said strategy shall be presented to the Planning Commission where a Large Project Authorization under Planning Code Section 329 applies. In all cases, said strategy shall be finally approved by the Director prior to Planning Department approval of a site or building permit.
   (g)   Nonresidential/Residential Open Space. In mixed nonresidential/residential projects, open space which meets the requirements of Section 135 regarding common usable open space for residential uses, and the requirements of Section 138 regarding open space for nonresidential uses, may be counted against the open space requirements of both Sections 135 and 138.
   (h)   Maintenance. Open spaces shall be maintained at no public expense. The owner of the property on which the open space is located shall maintain it by keeping the area clean and free of litter and keeping in a healthy state any plant material that is provided. Conditions intended to assure continued maintenance of the open space for the actual lifetime of the building giving rise to the open space requirement may be imposed in accordance with the provisions of Section 309.
   (i)   Informational Plaque. Prior to issuance of a permit of occupancy, one or more plaques shall be designed and placed in publicly conspicuous locations as described in this subsection.
      (1)1   The plaques shall:
         (A)    state the right of the public to use the space; and
         (B)   state the hours of use; and
         (C)   describe its principal required features (e.g., number of seats, uses and/or other defining features); and
         (D)   state the current name, telephone number, and postal address of the owner or owner's agent responsible for public access and maintenance; and
         (E)   describe the type of open space; and,
         (F)   state the location of the open space, and, in cases where that space is not visible from a major sidewalk, include directions to the open space.
      (2)   In terms of design and appearance, the plaque shall:
         (A)   include the standard Privately-owned public open space logo developed by the Planning Department; and
         (B)   follow the Zoning Administrator Bulletin 8 for POPOS Informational Plaques in terms of detailed dimensions, font type and size, color, and other graphics ; and
         (C)   be developed using the POPOS signage design toolkit provided by the Planning Department; and
         (D)   be made of opaque, non-reflective material, and provide a clear contrast between the lettering and the background; and
      (3)   The plaque shall be located as follows:
         (A)   Exterior. If the open space is located outside of a building and is at least partially adjacent to a public sidewalk, a plaque shall be placed on each building face adjacent to the space. Each plaque shall be located as close as possible to the nearest adjacent public sidewalk, but in no case shall any portion of each plaque be located more than five feet from the nearest sidewalk. Alternately, a plaque may be attached to an improvement within the open space or a free standing post so long as the entire plaque is located within five feet of and is clearly visible from an adjacent public sidewalk.
         (B)   If the open space is located inside a building, or if the open space is located outside a building but is primarily accessed through a building, or if the open space is not otherwise easily visible from the nearest public sidewalk, a plaque shall be placed within five feet of each pedestrian entrance to the building on the outside wall (exclusive of service, emergency, maintenance and related entrances). The plaque shall describe the location of the open space and provide directions on how to get to the space, way-finding signs shall also be placed within the building (e.g., in the lobby and at the elevator) clearly indicating the path to the open space.
      (4)   The plaque shall be placed so that the midpoint of the plaque is positioned at a height between four and one-half to six feet above grade level; and
      (5)   Existing POPOS. Existing POPOS shall comply with the current signage requirements contained in this subsection (i) and in the Zoning Administrator Bulletin referred to in subsection (i)(2)(B) whenever:
         (A)   the project seeks new approvals that trigger compliance with the signage requirements; or
         (B)   the existing signage is not in compliance with the requirements in effect at the time of a prior project approval; or
         (C)   the existing signage requires alteration in order to comply with Federal or State requirements for directional and informational signs.
   (j)   Notwithstanding the requirements established in subsections (b)-(d) above, the following additional standards shall apply in the C-3-O(SD) district:
      (1)   Public connections directly to the rooftop park on the Transbay Transit Center from adjacent buildings shall be counted toward the open space required per subsection (b) above provided that they meet all the following criteria:
         (A)   Such connections shall provide both horizontal connection (i.e. pedestrian bridge) from the subject development lot to the Transit Center Park as well as vertical connection to access such park connection from a publicly-accessible space at street level;
         (B)   Such connections described in (A), both vertical and horizontal, and any related circulation spaces, shall be publicly-accessible at any time the Transit Center park is open to the public;
         (C)   Horizontal connections shall have a minimum clear walking path of 12 feet;
         (D)   The project sponsor shall provide a letter, prior to project approval subject to Section 309, from the Executive Director of the Transbay Joint Powers Authority or any successor agency or agencies with jurisdiction over the Transit Center park indicating tentative approval of the horizontal connection as designed;
         (E)   Any vertical connection shall be clearly and prominently signed from a public sidewalk or public space as described in (A) above, and shall feature an informational plaque meeting the standards in subsection (i) above and further established in the "Guidelines for Open Space."
         (F)   The square footage equivalency of such park connections for the purpose of meeting Section 138 open space requirements shall be calculated to include:
            (i)   The area of the bridge structure from face of building to furthest point of connection on the rooftop park;
            (ii)   The area set aside for public circulation on or adjacent to the development lot, within or outside of the building envelope, that provides access to the park connection and is not otherwise necessary for general building circulation;
            (iii)   The area on any floor devoted to vertical circulation dedicated specifically to provide public access to the park connection, except for any features that are otherwise necessary for the general circulation or support of the building; and
            (iv)   An additional 5,000 square feet bonus.
         (G)   Approval of such connections by the Planning Department or Commission is conditioned on obtaining the necessary easements, permits or approvals otherwise required by other governmental agencies or authorities.
         (H)   Such connections must satisfy all applicable permit and governmental approval requirements and be completed and available for public use prior to issuance of the first Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for the project.
         (I)   Building connections that are designed primarily to provide access to the rooftop park for tenants of the subject building and not to either provide public access through the subject building to the park or to provide public access to retail in the subject building at the level of the park shall not be eligible for credit toward open space required under this Section.
      (2)   Any observation deck or sky lobby or similar space of public accommodation on any story above a height of 600 feet that is open to the general public shall be counted toward the open space required by subsection (b). Such spaces shall not include any space that requires a fee for access, a bar, restaurant or other primarily-commercial use, except that a space qualifying under this subsection may include ancillary retail or eating and drinking activities not to exceed 50% of the publicly-accessible floor area of such space.
      (3)   Any mid-block public pedestrian pathway that meets the design criteria of Section 270.2(e) whether required or not, shall be counted toward the open space required by subsection (b), except that any mid-block pathway constructed on Assessor's Block 3721 connecting Howard and Natoma Streets need not be open to the sky provided that it has vertical clearance of at least 25 feet, is open to the public at all times, and is open to the air at both ends such that it does not require opening of doors for access.
      (4)   In-lieu of providing open space per the requirements of this Section 138, developments in the C-3-O(SD) District may pay the fee as described in Section 426(b).
(Added by Ord. 414-85, App. 9/17/85; amended by Ord. 182-12 , File No. 120665, App. 8/8/2012, Eff. 9/7/2012; Ord. 228-12 , File No. 120220, App. 11/14/2012, Eff. 12/14/2012; Ord. 232-14 , File No. 120881, App. 11/26/2014, Eff. 12/26/2014; Ord. 188-15 , File No. 150871, App. 11/4/2015, Eff. 12/4/2015; Ord. 296-18, File No. 180184, App. 12/12/2018, Eff. 1/12/2019; Ord. 63-20, File No. 200077, App. 4/24/2020, Eff. 5/25/2020; Ord. 47-21, File No. 201175, App. 4/16/2021, Eff. 5/17/2021)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
Division (b) amended; division (j) added; Ord. 182-12 , Eff. 9/7/2012. Section header and divisions (c), (f), (h) and (i) amended; divisions (i)(1)1 through (5) added; Ord. 228-12 , Eff. 12/14/2012. Divisions (b), (d), and (e) amended; Ord. 232-14 , Eff. 12/26/2014. Divisions (a) and (b) amended; Ord. 188-15 , Eff. 12/4/2015. Section header and divisions (a)-(e) amended; divisions (a)(1), (e)(1), and Table 138 designated; divisions (d)-(d)(11) redesignated as divisions (d)-(d)(1)(K); divisions (a)(2), (d)(2)-(d)(2)(J), and (e)(2)-(e)(2)(C) added; Ord. 296-18 , Eff. 1/12/2019. Divisions (a)(1) and (c) amended; Ord. 63-20 , Eff. 5/25/2020. Divisions (f) and (j)(4) amended; Ord. 47-21 , Eff. 5/17/2021.
CODIFICATION NOTE
1.   The designation of the subdivisions of division (i) was corrected by the codifier.
SEC. 138.1. STREETSCAPE AND PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS.
   (a)   Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish requirements for the improvement of the public right-of-way associated with development projects, such that the public right-of-way may be safe, accessible, convenient and attractive to pedestrian use and travel by all modes of transportation consistent with the San Francisco General Plan, achieve best practices in ecological stormwater management, and provide space for public life and social interaction, in accordance with the City's "Better Streets Policy" (Administrative Code Section 98.1).
   (b)   Better Streets Plan. 
      (1)   The Better Streets Plan, as defined in Administrative Code Section 98.1(e), shall govern the design, location, and dimensions of all pedestrian and streetscape items in the public right-of-way, including but not limited to those items shown in Table 1. Development projects that propose or are required through this Section to make pedestrian and streetscape improvements to the public right-of-way shall conform with the principles and guidelines for those elements as set forth in the Better Streets Plan to the maximum extent feasible.
      (2)   Proposed improvements also shall be subject to approval by other City bodies with permitting jurisdiction over such streetscape improvements.
      (3)   The Department and other City bodies shall take into account a project’s scale when determining the appropriate scope of improvements.
 
Table 1: Pedestrian and Streetscape Elements per the Better Streets Plan
#
PHYSICAL ELEMENT (1)
BETTER
STREETS
PLAN
SECTION
#
PHYSICAL ELEMENT (1)
BETTER
STREETS
PLAN
SECTION
1
Curb ramps*
5.1
2
Marked crosswalks*
5.1
3
Pedestrian countdown devices
5.1
4
High-visibility crosswalks
5.1
5
Special crosswalk treatments
5.1
6
Restrictions on vehicle turning movements at crosswalks
5.1
7
Removal or reduction of permanent crosswalk closures
5.1
8
Mid-block crosswalks
5.1
9
Raised crosswalks* (2)
5.1
10
Parking restrictions at crosswalks (intersection daylighting)*
5.1
11
Curb radius guidelines
5.2
12
Corner curb extensions or bulb-outs*
5.3
13
Extended bulb-outs*
5.3
14
Mid-block bulb-outs*
5.3
15
Center or side medians
5.4
16
Pedestrian refuge islands
5.4
17
Transit bulb-outs
5.5
18
Transit boarding islands
5.5
19
Flexible use of the parking lane
5.6
20
Parking lane planters
5.6
21
Chicanes
5.7
22
Traffic calming circles
5.7
23
Modern roundabouts
5.7
24
Sidewalk or median pocket parks
5.8
25
Reuse of ‘pork chops’ and excess right-of-way
5.8
26
Multi-way boulevard treatments
5.8
27
Shared public ways
5.8
28
Pedestrian-only streets
5.8
29
Public stairs
5.8
30
Street trees*
6.1
31
Tree basin furnishings*
6.1
32
Sidewalk planters*
6.1
33
Above-ground landscaping
6.1
34
Stormwater management tools*
6.2
35
Street and pedestrian lighting*
6.3
36
Special paving*
6.4
37
Site furnishings*
6.5
38
Driveways
6.6
Standard streetscape elements marked with a *. (Requirement varies by street type: see the Better Streets Plan)
(1) The City shall not require physical elements beyond the subject frontage with the exception of raised crosswalks and curb ramps.
(2) The City shall require raised crosswalks only when the subject right-of-way is 40-feet or less and the crosswalk is installed at a street corner.
   (c)   Required streetscape and pedestrian improvements. Development projects shall include streetscape and pedestrian improvements on all publicly accessible right-of-ways directly fronting the property as follows:
      (1)   Street trees. Project Sponsors shall plant and establish street trees as set forth in Article 16, Sections 805(a) and 806(d) of the Public Works Code; provided, however, that where a property owner is either (A) adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit pursuant to Section 207.1 or 207.2 of this Code or (B) legalizing a Dwelling Unit pursuant to Section 207.3 of this Code, the owner may elect to pay the in-lieu fee authorized by Section 807(f) of the Public Works Code.
      (2)   Other streetscape and pedestrian elements for large projects. 
         (A)   Application. 
            (i)   In any district, streetscape and pedestrian elements in conformance with the Better Streets Plan shall be required, if the following conditions are present:
               a.   The project is on a lot that is greater than one-half acre in total area; or includes more than 50,000 gross square feet of new construction; or contains 150 feet of total lot frontage on one or more publicly-accessible right-of-ways; or its frontage encompasses the entire block face between the nearest two intersections with any other publicly-accessible right-of-way; and
               b.   The project includes new construction of 10 or more Dwelling Units; or new construction of 10,000 gross square feet or greater of non-residential space; or an addition of 20% or more of Gross Floor Area to an existing building; or a Change of Use of 10,000 gross square feet or greater of a PDR use to a non-PDR use.
            (ii)   Project sponsors that meet the thresholds of this Subsection shall submit a streetscape plan to the Planning Department showing the location, design, and dimensions of all existing and proposed streetscape elements in the public right-of-way directly adjacent to the fronting property, including street trees, sidewalk landscaping, street lighting, site furnishings, utilities, driveways, and curb lines, and the relation of such elements to proposed new construction and site work on the subject property.
         (B)   Standards. 
            (i)   Required streetscape elements. A continuous soil-filled trench parallel to the curb shall connect all street tree basins for those street trees required under the Public Works Code. The trench may be covered only by Permeable Surfaces as defined in Section 102 of the Planning Code, except at required tree basins, where the soil must remain uncovered. The Director of Planning, or his or her designee, may modify or waive this requirement where a continuous trench is not possible due to the location of existing utilities, driveways, sub-sidewalk basements, or other pre-existing surface or sub-surface features.
            (ii)   Additional streetscape elements. The Department may require a project to construct any Standard Streetscape Element listed in Table 1, above, including benches, bicycle racks, curb ramps, corner curb extensions, specified bulb-outs, stormwater facilities, lighting, sidewalk landscaping, special sidewalk paving, and other site furnishings.
               a.   Streetscape elements shall be selected from a City-approved palette of materials and furnishings, where applicable, and shall be subject to approval by all applicable City agencies.
               b.   Additionally, streetscape elements shall be consistent with the overall char- acter and materials of the district, and shall have a logical transition or termination to the sidewalk and/or roadway adjacent to the fronting property.
            (iii)   Sidewalk widening. The Planning Department, in consultation with other agencies, shall evaluate whether sufficient roadway space is available for sidewalk widening for the entirety or a portion of the fronting public right-of-way in order to meet or exceed the recommended sidewalk widths for the appropriate street type per Table 2 and the Better Streets Plan and/or to provide additional space for pedestrian and streetscape amenities. If it is found that sidewalk widening is feasible and desirable, the Planning Department shall require the owner or developer to install such sidewalk widening as a condition of approval, including all associated utility re-location, drainage, and street and sidewalk paving.
            (iv)   Minimum sidewalk width. New publicly-accessible right-of-ways proposed as part of development projects shall meet or exceed the recommended sidewalk widths for the appropriate street type per Table 2. Where a consistent front building setback of 3 feet or greater extending for at least an entire block face is provided, the recommended sidewalk width may be reduced by up to 2 feet. Where a Board of Supervisors adopted streetscape plan or community-based plan recommends a sidewalk width greater than the recommended sidewalk width in Table 2 below, the City may require development projects to meet the greater of the two widths.
 
Table 2. Recommended Sidewalk Widths by Street Type
Street Type (per Better Streets Plan)
Recommended Sidewalk Width (Minimum required for new streets)
Street Type (per Better Streets Plan)
Recommended Sidewalk Width (Minimum required for new streets)
Commercial
Downtown commercial
For Downtown Commercial Streets that are sited within the Downtown Streetscape Plan Area, the recommended sidewalk width shall be the width recommended in the Downtown Streetscape Plan. For Downtown Commercial Streets that are sited outside of the Downtown Streetscape Plan Area, the recommended sidewalk width shall be 15 feet.
-
Commercial throughway
15 feet
-
Neighborhood commercial
15 feet
Residential
Downtown residential
15 feet
-
Residential throughway
15 feet
-
Neighborhood residential
12 feet
Industrial/Mixed-Use
Industrial
10 feet
-
Mixed-use
15 feet
Special
Parkway
17 feet
-
Park edge (multi-use path)
25 feet
-
Multi-way boulevard
15 feet
-
Ceremonial
varies
Small
Alley
9 feet
-
Shared public way
n/a
-
Paseo
varies
         (C)   Review and approvals. 
            (i)   The project sponsor shall submit to the Planning Department the streetscape plan required by this section with the project’s first Development Application as defined in Section 401, and the Planning Department or Commission shall consider it for approval at the time of other project approval actions. Prior to making its determination about required streetscape and pedestrian elements, the Planning Department shall consult with other City agencies tasked with the design, permitting, use, and maintenance of the public right-of-way. If, after this consultation, any of the affected agencies find that the project sponsor cannot install one or more of the Standard Streetscape Elements due to physical constraints of or other complications related to the site or the public right-of-way surrounding or in the vicinity of the project, then the Department may impose alternative streetscape improvement requirements that provide equivalent or better protection to pedestrians, bicyclists, or transit movement, and/or reduce conflicts among transportation modes. However, such alternative improvements shall cost no more than Standard Streetscape Elements that would have been required and shall be approved only after consultation with the affected agencies.
            (ii)   Final approval by the affected agencies and construction of such streetscape improvements shall be completed prior to the issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy or temporary Certificate of Occupancy for the project, unless otherwise extended by the Zoning Administrator. Should conditions, policies, or determinations by other City agencies require a change to the streetscape plan after approval of the streetscape plan but prior to commencement of construction of the streetscape improvements, the Planning Department shall have the authority to require revision to such streetscape plan. In such case, the Zoning Administrator shall extend the timeframe for completion of such improvements by an appropriate duration as necessary.
            (iii)   Should the construction timeline for a development project be shorter than the construction timeline for the associated streetscape improvement, such as for a change-of-use project, the Zoning Administrator may extend the timeframe for completion of such improvements by an appropriate duration as necessary. As a condition of any such extension, the Zoning Administrator can require the project sponsor to post a bond in the amount of such improvement and subject to the terms that the Zoning Administrator deems appropriate.
            (iv)   Waiver. Any City agency tasked with the design, permitting, use, and maintenance of the public right-of-way, may waive any or all Department required improvements of the streetscape plan as described in this Subsection under that agency’s jurisdiction if said agency determines that such improvement or improvements is inappropriate, interferes with utilities to an extent that makes installation financially infeasible, or would negatively affect the public welfare. Any such waiver shall be from the Director or General Manager of the affected agency, shall be in writing to the applicant and the Department, and shall specify the basis for the waiver. Waivers, if any, shall be obtained prior to commencement of construction of the streetscape improvements unless extenuating circumstances arise during the construction of said improvements. If such a waiver is granted, the Department reserves the right to impose alternative streetscape improvement requirements that provide equivalent or better protection to pedestrians, bicyclists, or transit movement, and/or reduce conflicts among transportation modes. However, such alternative requirements shall cost no more than element or elements that have been waived in the adopted streetscape plan and shall be approved only after consultation with the affected agencies. This Subsection shall not apply to the waiver of the street tree requirement set forth in Section 138.1(c)(1).
   (d)   Neighborhood Streetscape Plans. In addition to the requirements listed in Subsection 138.1(c), the Planning Department in coordination with other city agencies, and after a public hearing, may adopt streetscape plans for particular streets, neighborhoods, and districts, containing standards and guidelines to supplement the Better Streets Plan. Development projects in areas listed in this subsection that propose or are required through this section to make pedestrian and streetscape improvements to the public right-of-way shall conform with the standards and guidelines in the applicable neighborhood streetscape plan in addition to those found in the Better Streets Plan.
      (1)   Downtown Streetscape Plan. 
         (A)   In any C-3 District sidewalk paving as set forth in the Downtown Streetscape Plan shall be installed by the applicant under the following conditions:
            (i)   Any new construction;
            (ii)   The addition of Gross Floor Area equal to 20 percent or more of an existing building; or
            (iii)   A Change of Use of 10,000 or more gross square feet of PDR use to a non-PDR use.
         (B)   In accordance with the provisions of Section 309 of the Planning Code governing C-3 Districts, when a permit is granted for any project abutting a public sidewalk in a C-3 District, the Planning Commission may impose additional requirements that the applicant install sidewalk improvements such as benches, bicycle racks, lighting, special paving, seating, landscaping, and sidewalk widening in accordance with the guidelines of the Downtown Streetscape Plan if it finds that these improvements are necessary to meet the goals and objectives of the General Plan of the City and County of San Francisco. In making this determination, the Planning Commission shall consider the level of street as defined in the Downtown Streetscape Plan.
         (C)   If a sidewalk widening or a pedestrian street improvement is used to meet the open space requirement, it shall conform to the guidelines of Section 138.
         (D)   The Planning Commission shall determine whether the streetscape improvements required by this Section may be on the same site as the building for which the permit is being sought, or within 900 feet, provided that all streetscape improvements are located entirely within the C-3 District.
      (2)   Rincon Hill Streetscape Plan. In the Rincon Hill Downtown Residential Mixed Use (RH-DTR) and Folsom and Main Residential/Commercial Special Use Districts, the boundaries of which are shown in Section Map No. 1 of the Zoning Map, for all frontages abutting a public sidewalk, the project sponsor is required to install sidewalk widening, street trees, lighting, decorative paving, seating and landscaping in accordance with the approved Streetscape Master Plan of the Rincon Hill Area Plan for: (A) any new construction; or (B) the addition of Gross loor1 Area equal to 20 percent or more of an existing building, or (C) a Change of Use of 10,000 or more square feet from a PDR use to a non-PDR use.
   (e)   Additional provisions. 
      (1)   Maintenance. Unless otherwise determined, fronting property owners shall maintain all streetscape improvements required by this section, including landscaping, bicycle racks, benches, special paving, and other site furnishings at no public expense per the requirements of the Public Works Code and the Better Streets Plan for sidewalks and street furnishings, except for street trees and standard street lighting from a City-approved palette of street lights and any improvements within the roadway. Conditions intended to assure continued maintenance of the improvements for the actual lifetime of the building giving rise to the streetscape improvement requirement may be imposed as a condition of approval by the Planning Department.
      (2)   For any streetscape and/or pedestrian improvements installed pursuant to this section, the abutting property owner or owners shall hold harmless the City and County of San Francisco, its officers, agents, and employees, from any damage or injury caused by reason of the design, construction or maintenance of the improvements, and shall require the owner or owners or subsequent owner or owners of the respective property to be solely liable for any damage or loss occasioned by any act. This requirement shall be deemed satisfied if City permits for the improvements include indemnification and hold harmless provisions.
      (3)   Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section, an applicant shall apply for and obtain all required permits and approvals for changes to the legislated sidewalk widths and street improvements.
   (f)   Removal and modification of private encroachments on public rights-of-way.
      (1)   Applicability. This section shall apply to developments that:
         (A)   construct new buildings;
         (B)   include building alterations which increase the gross square footage of a structure by 20 percent or more;
         (C)   add off-street parking or loading; or
         (D)   remove off-street parking or loading.
      (2)   Requirements. As a condition of approval for the applicable developments in subsection (b), the Planning Department may require the project sponsor to:
         (A)   reduce the number or width of driveway entrances to a lot, to comply with the streetscape requirements of this Code and the protected street frontages of Section 155(r);
         (B)   remove encroachments onto or over sidewalks and streets that reduce the pedestrian path of travel, or reduce the sidewalk area available for streetscape amenities such as landscaping, street trees and outdoor seating;
         (C)   remove or reduce in size basements which extend under public rights-of-way.
      (3)   Standards. In instances where such encroachments are removed, the Planning Department shall require that the replacement curbs, sidewalks, street trees, and landscaping shall meet the standards of the Better Streets Plan and of any applicable neighborhood streetscape plans.
(Added by Ord. 314-95, App. 10/6/95; amended by Ord. 310-10, File No. 101194, App. 12/16/2010; Ord. 232-14 , File No. 120881, App. 11/26/2014, Eff. 12/26/2014; Ord. 119-15 , File No. 150221, App. 7/15/2015, Eff. 8/14/2015; Ord. 123-15 , File No. 150357, App. 7/17/2015, Eff. 8/16/2015; Ord. 188-15 , File No. 150871, App. 11/4/2015, Eff. 12/4/2015; Ord. 195-18, File No. 180268, App. 8/10/2018, Eff. 9/10/2018; Ord. 218-18, File No. 180752, App. 9/14/2018, Eff. 10/15/2018; Ord. 277-18, File No. 180914, App. 11/20/2018, Eff. 12/21/2018; Ord. 63-20, File No. 200077, App. 4/24/2020, Eff. 5/25/2020; Ord. 62-24, File No. 230310, App. 3/28/2024, Eff. 4/28/2024)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
Subdivision designations corrected throughout divisions (c) and (d); former divisions (c)(1)(B)-(D) and division (d)(1)(A) amended; division (f) added; Ord. 232-14 , Eff. 12/26/2014. Division (c)(1) amended; former divisions (c)(1)(A)-(D) deleted; division (c)(2)(B) amended; new division (c)(2)(B)(i) added and former divisions (c)(2)(B)(i)-(iii) redesignated as (c)(2)(B)(ii)-(iv); current division (c)(2)(B)(ii) amended; Ord. 119-15 , Eff. 8/14/2015. Division (d)(2) amended; Ord. 123-15 , Eff. 8/16/2015. Table 1 amended; Ord. 188-15 , Eff. 12/4/2015. Nonsubstantive amendment to division (c)(1); Ord. 195-18, Eff. 9/10/2018. Division (c)(1) amended; Ord. 218-18, Eff. 10/15/2018. Divisions (b)(3), (c)(2)(A)(i)a. and b., (c)(2)(C)(iii), and (d)(1)(A)(iii) added; former division (c)(2)(C)(iii) redesignated as (c)(2)(C)(iv) and amended; Tables 1 and 2 amended; divisions (c)(1), (c)(2)(A)(i), (c)(2)(B)(i)-(iv), (c)(2)(C)(i), (d)(1)(A)(ii), (d)(2), (e)(1), and (f)(1) amended; Ord. 277-18, Eff. 12/21/2018. Table 2 amended; Ord. 63-20, Eff. 5/25/2020. Division (c)(1) amended; Ord. 62-24, Eff. 4/28/2024.
CODIFICATION NOTE
1.   So in Ord. 277-18.
SEC. 139. STANDARDS FOR BIRD-SAFE BUILDINGS.
   (a)   Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to establish Bird-Safe Standards for new building construction and replacement facades to reduce bird mortality from circumstances that are known to pose a high risk to birds and are considered to be "bird hazards." The two circumstances regulated by this Section are 1) location-related hazards, where the siting of a structure creates increased risk to birds and 2) feature-related hazards, which may create increased risk to birds regardless of where the structure is located. Location-related hazards are created by structures that are near or adjacent to large open spaces and/or water. When structures are located in such an area, the portion of the structure most likely to sustain bird-strikes requires facade treatments. Even if a structure is not located near a locational hazard, particular building features also may create a hazard for birds. Structures that create such a feature-related hazard are required to treat all of the feature-related hazard. While these controls do not apply retroactively, the purpose of these controls is to ensure that new construction is bird-safe and to decrease existing bird-hazards over time.
   (b)   Definitions.
      (1)   Bird-Safe Glazing Treatment. Bird-Safe Glazing Treatment may include fritting, netting, permanent stencils, frosted glass, exterior screens, physical grids placed on the exterior of glazing or UV patterns visible to birds. To qualify as Bird-Safe Glazing Treatment vertical elements of window patterns should be at least 1/4 inch wide at a maximum spacing of 4 inches or horizontal elements at least 1/8 inch wide at a maximum spacing of 2 inches.
      (2)   Bird Hazard. Specific circumstances that create a hazard for birds due to either the location of the building or due to specific building features that increase the risk of bird-building collisions as described under (c) below.
   (c)   Controls. The following Bird-Safe Standards shall apply to: 1) new construction, 2) building additions that create a Bird Hazard, or 3) the replacement of 50% or more of the glazing on an existing Bird Hazard. Additions to existing buildings subject to this subsection are required only to treat the new building addition. Bird Hazards consist of: 1) location-related hazards and 2) feature-related hazards and the standards specified below shall apply to structures that present these hazards. These controls shall apply to all structures subject to this Section regardless of whether the ownership or use is public or private.
      (1)   Location-Related Standards. These standards apply to buildings located inside of open spaces two acres and larger dominated by vegetation, including vegetated landscaping, forest, meadows, grassland, or wetlands, or open water (hereinafter an Urban Bird Refuge). These standards also shall apply to buildings less than 300 feet from an Urban Bird Refuge if such buildings are in an unobstructed line to the refuge. The standards are as follows:
         (A)   Facade Requirement. Bird-Safe Glazing Treatment is required such that the Bird Collision Zone, as defined below, facing the Urban Bird Refuge consists of no more than 10% untreated glazing. Building owners are encouraged to concentrate permitted transparent glazing on the ground floor and lobby entrances to enhance visual interest for pedestrians. The Bird Collision Zone shall mean the portion of buildings most likely to sustain bird-strikes from local and migrant birds in search of food and shelter and includes:
            (i)   The building facade beginning at grade and extending upwards for 60 feet, or
            (ii)   Glass facades directly adjacent to landscaped roofs 2 acres or larger and extending upwards 60 feet from the level of the subject roof.
         (B)   Lighting. Minimal lighting shall be used. Lighting shall be shielded. No uplighting shall be used. Event searchlights are prohibited on property subject to these controls.
         (C)   Wind Generation. Wind generators in this area shall comply with the Planning Department's permitting requirements, including any monitoring of wildlife impacts that the Department may require.
      (2)   Feature-Related Standards. Feature-related hazards include free-standing glass walls, wind barriers, skywalks, balconies, and greenhouses on rooftops that have unbroken glazed segments 24 square feet and larger in size. Feature-related hazards can occur throughout the City. Any structure that contains these elements shall treat 100% of the glazing on Feature-Specific hazards.
      (3)   Exceptions. Certain exceptions apply to this Section as set forth below.
         (A)   Certain Exceptions for Location-Related Standards to be Applied to Residential Buildings Within R-Districts.
            (i)   Limited Glass Facade. Residential buildings within R- Districts that are less than 45 feet in height and have an exposed facade comprised of less than 50% glass are exempt from new or replacement facade glazing requirements included in Section 139(c)(1) Location-Related Standards.
            (ii)   Substantial Glass Facade. Residential buildings that are less than 45 feet in height but have a facade with surface area composed of more than 50% glass, shall provide glazing treatments as described in Section 139(c)(1)(A) for 95% of all large, unbroken glazed segments that are 24 square feet and larger.
         (B)   General Exceptions for Historic Buildings. Treatment of replacement glass facades for structures designated as City landmarks or within landmark districts pursuant to Article 10 of the Planning Code, or any building Category I-IV or Category V within a Conservation District pursuant to Article 11 of the Planning Code, shall conform to Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Properties. Reversible treatment methods such as netting, glass films, grates, and screens are recommended. Netting or any other method demonstrated to protect historic buildings from pest species that meets the Specifications for Bird-Safe Glazing Treatment stated above also may be used to fulfill the requirement.
         (C)   General Waivers and Modifications. The Zoning Administrator may either waive the requirements contained within Section 139(c)(1) and Section 139(c)(2) or modify such requirements to allow equivalent Bird-Safe Glazing Treatments upon the recommendation of a qualified biologist.
(Added by Ord. 199-11 , File No. 110785, App. 10/7/2011, Eff. 11/6/2011; amended by Ord. 56-13 , File No. 130062, App. 3/28/2013, Eff. 4/27/2013)
(Former Sec. 139 added by Ord. 414-85, App. 9/17/85; amended by Ord. 76-03, File No. 020592, App. 5/2/2003; Ord. 18-05, File No. 040731, App. 1/21/2005; renumbered as new Sec. 412.1-412.6 by Ord. 108-10, File No. 091275, App. 5/25/2010)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
Divisions (b)(1) and (c)(1)(B) amended; Ord. 56-13 , Eff. 4/27/2013.
SEC. 140. ALL DWELLING UNITS IN ALL USE DISTRICTS TO FACE ON AN OPEN AREA.
(See Interpretations related to this Section.)
   (a)   Requirements for Dwelling Units. In each Dwelling Unit in any use district, the required windows (as defined by Section 504 of the San Francisco Housing Code ) of at least one room that meets the 120-square-foot minimum superficial floor area requirement of Section 503 of the Housing Code shall face directly onto an open area of one of the following types:
      (1)   A public street, public alley at least 20 feet in width, side yard at least 25 feet in width, or rear yard meeting the requirements of this Code; provided, that if such windows are on an outer court whose width is less than 25 feet, the depth of such court shall be no greater than its width; or
      (2)   An open area (whether an inner court or a space between separate buildings on the same lot) which is unobstructed (except for fire escapes not projecting more than necessary for safety and in no case more than four feet six inches, chimneys, and those obstructions permitted in subsections 136(c)(14), (15), (16), (19), (20) and (29) of this Code) and is no less than 25 feet in every horizontal dimension for the floor at which the Dwelling Unit in question is located.
      (3)   In accordance with Section 210.5, this Section 140 shall not apply to Commercial to Residential Adaptive Reuse projects.
   (b)   Requirements for Group Housing. For group housing projects, either each bedroom or at least one interior common area that meets the 120 square-foot minimum superficial floor area requirement of Section 503 of the Housing Code shall include windows meeting the requirements of subsections (a)(1) or (a)(2) above. The requirements of this subsection (b) may be waived by the Zoning Administrator per Section 307(m) of this Code.
   (c)   Exceptions.
      (1)   For historic buildings identified in Section 307(h), and for the conversion of a nonconforming use in an existing building to a Residential Use in a district where the Residential Use is principally permitted, the requirements of this Section 140 may be modified or waived pursuant to the procedures and criteria set forth in Sections 307(h) and 329. This administrative exception does not apply to new additions to historic buildings.
      (2)   For Accessory Dwelling Units, the requirements of this Section 140 may be modified or waived pursuant to the procedures and criteria set forth in Sections 307(l) and 207.1.
 
(Amended by Ord. 443-78, App. 10/6/78; Ord. 69-87, App. 3/13/87; Ord. 115-90, App. 4/6/90; Ord. 368-94, App. 11/4/94; Ord. 298-08, File No. 081153, App. 12/19/2008; Ord. 51-09, File No. 081620, App. 4/2/2009; Ord. 196-11 , File No. 110786, App. 10/4/2011, Eff. 11/3/2011; Ord. 232-14 , File No. 120881, App. 11/26/2014, Eff. 12/26/2014; Ord. 164-15 , File No. 150348, App. 9/23/2015, Eff. 10/23/2015, Retro. 5/20/2015; Ord. 188-15 , File No. 150871, App. 11/4/2015, Eff. 12/4/2015; Ord. 195-18, File No. 180268, App. 8/10/2018, Eff. 9/10/2018; Ord. 296-18, File No. 180184, App. 12/12/2018, Eff. 1/12/2019; Ord. 122-23, File No. 230371, App. 7/5/2023, Eff. 8/5/2023; Ord. 159-23, File No. 230732, App. 7/28/2023, Eff. 8/28/2023; Ord. 248-23, File No. 230446, App. 12/14/2023, Eff. 1/14/2024; Ord. 62-24, File No. 230310, App. 3/28/2024, Eff. 4/28/2024)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
[Former] division (b) amended; Ord. 196-11 , Eff. 11/3/2011. Divisions (a), (a)(1), and [former] (b) amended; Ord. 232-14 , Eff. 12/26/2014. Division (a) amended; new division (b) added and former division (b) redesignated as (c); Ord. 164-15 , Eff. 10/23/2015. Diagram amended; other nonsubstantive changes; Ord. 188-15 , Eff. 12/4/2015. Division (c) content redesignated as (c)(1); division (c)(2) added; Ord. 195-18, Eff. 9/10/2018. Division (a) amended; Ord. 296-18, Eff. 1/12/2019. Division (a)(3) added; Ord. 122-23, Eff. 8/5/2023, and Ord. 159-23, Eff. 8/28/2023. Division (a)(2) amended; Ord. 248-23, Eff. 1/14/2024. Division (c)(2) amended; Ord. 62-24, Eff. 4/28/2024.
Editor's Note:
   Ordinance 155-15 (File No. 150348, App. 8/6/2015, Eff. 9/5/2015) purported to amend this section. At the direction of the Office of the City Attorney, Ord. 155-15 was never codified (and accordingly is not referenced in the history notes above). Its provisions effectively were superseded by Ord. 164-15 (File No. 150348, App. 9/23/2015, Eff. 10/23/2015, Retro. 5/20/2015).
SEC. 140.1. COMMON AREA REQUIREMENT FOR EFFICIENCY DWELLING UNITS WITH REDUCED SQUARE FOOTAGE.
   Buildings with 20 or more Efficiency Dwelling Units with reduced square footage, as defined in Section 318 of this Code, shall include at least one common room for use by the residents. Such common room(s) may be used as study or reading rooms, shared kitchen or dining facilities, media rooms, game rooms, fitness facilities, or similar uses appropriate to the needs of residents. Interior common areas shall be of sufficient size to reasonably accommodate residents' needs, but in no event shall the area required be less than ten square feet per unit.
(Added by Ord. 242-12 , File No. 120996, App. 12/7/2012, Eff. 1/6/2013)
SEC. 141. SCREENING OF ROOFTOP FEATURES IN R, NC, C, M, WMUG, WMUO, RED, RED-MX, SALI AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS.
(See Interpretations related to this Section.)
   (a)   In R, NC, C, M, WMUG, WMUO, RED, RED-MX, SALI and Mixed Use Districts, rooftop mechanical equipment and appurtenances to be used in the operation or maintenance of a building shall be arranged so as not to be visible from any point at or below the roof level of the subject building. This requirement shall apply in construction of new buildings, and in any alteration of mechanical systems of existing buildings that results in significant changes in such rooftop equipment and appurtenances. The features so regulated shall in all cases be either enclosed by outer building walls or parapets, or grouped and screened in a suitable manner, or designed in themselves so that they are balanced and integrated with respect to the design of the building. Minor features not exceeding one foot in height shall be exempted from this regulation.
   (b)   In C-3 Districts, whenever the enclosure or screening of the features listed in Section 260(b)(1)(A) and (B), will be visually prominent, modifications may, in accordance with provisions of Section 309, be required in order to insure that:
      (1)   the enclosure or screening is designed as a logical extension of the building form and an integral part of the overall building design;
      (2)   its cladding and detailing is comparable in quality to that of the rest of the building;
      (3)   if enclosed or screened by additional volume, as authorized by Section 260(b), the rooftop form is appropriate to the nature and proportions of the building, and is designed to obscure the rooftop equipment and appurtenances and to provide a more balanced and graceful silhouette for the top of the building or structure; and
      (4)   the additional building volume is not distributed in a manner which simply extends vertically the walls of the building.
   (c)   In Mixed Use Districts, mechanical equipment and appurtenances shall be enclosed in such a manner that:
      (1)   the enclosure is designed as a logical extension of the building form and an integral part of the overall building design;
      (2)   its cladding and detailing is comparable in quality to that of the rest of the building;
      (3)   if screened by additional volume, as authorized by Section 260(b), the rooftop form is appropriate to the nature and proportions of the building, and is designed to obscure the rooftop equipment and appurtenances and to provide a more balanced and graceful silhouette for the top of the building or structure; and
      (4)   the additional building volume is not distributed in a manner which simply extends vertically the walls of the building.
   (d)   Off-street parking or freight loading spaces shall only be permitted on unenclosed rooftops when the parking area is screened with fencing, trellises and/or landscaped screening features such that parked vehicles cannot be easily viewed from adjacent buildings, elevated freeways or public vista points.
(Ord. 532-85, 1985; amended by Ord. 414-85, App. 9/17/85; Ord. 69-87, App. 3/13/87; Ord. 115-90, App. 4/6/90; Ord. 217-05, File No. 050865, App. 8/19/2005; Ord. 298-08, File No. 081153, App. 12/19/2008; Ord. 42-13 , File No. 130002, App. 3/28/2013, Eff. 4/27/2013; Ord. 232-14 , File No. 120881, App. 11/26/2014, Eff. 12/26/2014)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
Section header and division (a) amended; Ord. 42-13 , Eff. 4/27/2013. Section header and divisions (a) and (c) amended; Ord. 232-14 , Eff. 12/26/2014.
Loading...