This ordinance modifies the Shared Spaces Program by removing the Planning Department's role in design review and eliminating certain application requirements, such as community outreach and public notice. It also amends the Public Works Code to streamline the application process for shared spaces.
Ordinance amending the Administrative Code provisions related to the Shared Spaces Program to remove the Planning Department as a coordinating entity conducting design review, eliminate application requirements of documented community outreach and neighbor notice, and eliminate public accessibility and alternate public seating requirements; amending the Public Works Code to eliminate requirements of public notice of application; and affirming the Planning Department’s determination under the California Environmental Quality Act.
How it got here
The legislation originated from the need to streamline the Shared Spaces Program in San Francisco, which was initially created as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Mayor issued a proclamation creating the Shared Spaces Program to allow businesses to operate outdoors during the pandemic.
The Small Business Commission issued a resolution supporting the expansion of the Shared Spaces Program.
The Board of Supervisors passed a resolution urging the permanent adoption of the Shared Spaces Program.
The Board referred the proposed legislation to various departments for review, including a CEQA determination.
The Small Business Commission unanimously voted in support of the legislation to streamline the Shared Spaces Program.
The Planning Department affirmed that the actions contemplated in the ordinance comply with CEQA.
The committee recommended the legislation for passage, focusing on simplifying permitting and modernizing operational requirements.
The Board of Supervisors finally passed the ordinance amending the Shared Spaces Program.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record
