This ordinance simplifies the process for businesses to set up café tables, chairs, and merchandise displays in public spaces by replacing permit requirements and fees with a registration system. It also removes certain minor encroachment permit requirements and exempts these setups from the Shared Spaces Program.
Ordinance amending the Public Works Code to streamline the approval of certain encroachments in the public right-of-way, to establish a registration requirement in place of all permit requirements and fees for café tables and chairs and display merchandise, and to eliminate minor encroachment permit requirements and right-of-way occupancy fees for appurtenant building features; amending the Administrative Code to exempt café tables and chairs and display merchandise from the Shared Spaces Program; and affirming the Planning Department’s determination under the California Environmental Quality Act.
How it got here
This legislation originated from the need to streamline the permitting process for café tables and chairs in San Francisco, as part of the broader PermitSF initiative aimed at supporting small businesses post-COVID-19.
Mayor Lurie introduced the ordinance to amend the Public Works Code and Administrative Code to streamline the approval process for café tables and chairs, display merchandise, and appurtenant building features.
The Planning Department determined that the actions contemplated in the ordinance comply with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The Planning Department provided a response regarding the CEQA determination related to the proposed ordinance.
The Small Business Commission voted 6-0 in support of the legislation, highlighting its benefits for small businesses by eliminating unnecessary permit requirements.
The Land Use and Transportation Committee recommended the ordinance for passage.
The Board of Supervisors passed the ordinance on first reading.
The Board of Supervisors finally passed the ordinance.
Mayor Lurie approved the ordinance, finalizing the legislative process.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record
