This ordinance removes the local requirement for existing buildings with public access to ensure all main entrances and travel paths are accessible for people with disabilities, unless they receive a specific city determination. It also confirms that the Planning Department's assessment complies with environmental regulations.
Ordinance amending the Building, Administrative, and Public Works Codes to remove the local requirement for existing buildings with a place of public accommodation to have all primary entries and paths of travel into the building accessible to persons with disabilities or to receive a City determination of equivalent facilitation, technical infeasibility, or unreasonable hardship; and affirming the Planning Department’s determination under the California Environmental Quality Act.
How it got here
The legislation originated from a need to amend existing accessibility requirements for public accommodations in San Francisco, prompted by the challenges faced by small businesses in complying with the Accessible Business Entrance program.
Supervisor Mandelman introduced the ordinance to amend the Building, Administrative, and Public Works Codes regarding accessibility requirements for existing buildings with a place of public accommodation.
The committee referred the legislation to the Small Business Commission for comments and recommendations.
The Planning Department determined that the actions contemplated in the ordinance comply with the California Environmental Quality Act.
The Small Business Commission expressed support for the legislation, acknowledging the success of the ABE program and the need for broader accessibility initiatives.
The Building Inspection Commission held a public hearing and voted to recommend approval of the ordinance.
The committee recommended the ordinance for passage after considering public comments and departmental responses.
The Board of Supervisors finally passed the ordinance, which amends the accessibility requirements for existing buildings.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record
