The ordinance aims to make it easier for chain stores and restaurants to operate in San Francisco by reducing various restrictions on their use and location. Key changes include modifying definitions, eliminating certain approval requirements, and allowing more flexibility in where these businesses can be established.
Ordinance amending the Planning Code to reduce restrictions on Formula Retail uses by 1) modifying the definition of a Formula Retail use; 2) eliminating the Conditional Use Authorization requirement for Formula Retail Accessory Uses, Formula Retail Temporary Uses, and certain changes of use for Formula Retail uses; 3) eliminating the prohibition on changes of use for non-conforming Formula Retail uses; 4) eliminating the requirement for an economic impact study for specified large Formula Retail uses; 5) eliminating the restrictions regarding Formula Retail use concentration in the Upper Market Street Neighborhood Commercial District; 6) allowing one or more Formula Retail Restaurants or Limited Restaurants inside a General Grocery store under a single Conditional Use authorization; and 7) principally permitting Formula Retail uses in spaces larger than 10,000 square feet in the RC (Residential-Commercial) and RTO (Residential Transit Oriented) Districts; affirming the Planning Department’s determination under the California Environmental Quality Act; making findings of consistency with the General Plan, and the eight priority policies of Planning Code, Section 101.1; and making findings of public necessity, convenience, and welfare pursuant to Planning Code, Section 302.
How it got here
The legislation originated from a need to amend the Planning Code to reduce restrictions on Formula Retail uses in San Francisco.
Supervisor Melgar introduced legislation to amend the Planning Code, aiming to reduce restrictions on Formula Retail uses.
The proposed ordinance was referred to the Planning Commission for review.
The Planning Department provided a response regarding the proposed amendments.
Supervisor Melgar introduced a resolution extending the time for the Planning Commission to render its decision by 90 days.
A substitute ordinance was introduced, further refining the proposed amendments to the Planning Code.
The substitute ordinance was referred to the Planning Commission for review.
The Board of Supervisors adopted the resolution affirming the Planning Department's determination under CEQA.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record
The resolution extends the time for the Planning Commission to decide on changes to the Planning Code that would ease restrictions on Formula Retail businesses, including modifying definitions and eliminating certain requirements. This aims to facilitate the establishment and operation of these businesses in various districts throughout San Francisco.