San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA – The Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved legislation introduced by Mayor London N. Breed, co-sponsored by Supervisors Rafael Mandelman and Myrna Melgar, to encourage and expand outdoor community events by waiving city fees. This initiative aims to make such events less costly to produce.

Currently, the costs for obtaining permits for organized events or fairs range from $500 to $10,000, depending on their size and scope. Eligible applicants include San Francisco-based non-profits, small businesses, Community Benefit Districts, Business Improvement Districts, neighborhood associations, or merchant associations. Fees eligible for waiver encompass application, permit, and inspection/staffing fees from various city departments including the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), Department of Public Health, Fire Department, Entertainment Commission, and Police Department.

“Outdoor events in San Francisco attract thousands of people who come to enjoy our iconic sites, amazing food, and cultural offerings,” said Mayor London Breed. “This legislation is a big step forward in our efforts to continue to revitalize Downtown and our neighborhoods.”

The legislation supports the Mayor’s broader strategy outlined in her Roadmap to San Francisco’s Future. Outdoor community events such as night markets, neighborhood block parties, and farmers markets are integral to San Francisco’s culture and community. They offer residents and visitors opportunities to engage with local artists while enjoying the city's outdoor spaces.

"In San Francisco, we know how to embrace joy,” said Supervisor Myrna Melgar. “I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to ensure that red tape doesn't get in the way of a good time.”

"District 8 loved its block parties and street fairs long before COVID," said Supervisor Rafael Mandelman. "The pandemic challenged us to rethink our use of outdoor space."

To qualify for the new fee waivers, events must be free and open to the public, occupy three or fewer city blocks between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m., and have appropriate permitting from ISCOTT and the Entertainment Commission. Organizations are limited to a maximum of 12 events per year.

For over a year Mayor Breed has focused on ensuring San Francisco remains vibrant while supporting small businesses. In December she signed legislation making over 100 changes to ease the permitting process for small businesses.

Earlier this month as part of her proposed new two-year budget she laid out initiatives for revitalizing Union Square and Yerba Buena hospitality districts. In May she proposed establishing Entertainment Zones allowing restaurants and bars to sell alcoholic beverages during outdoor events.

“On behalf of the merchants who depend on our outdoor events...we are so very grateful,” said Angie Petitt of Sunset Mercantile.

"Fees have been a significant part of the budget for events like the Sunset Autumn Moon Festival," said Lily Wong of Wah Mei.

“I am delighted...to organize night markets,” said Lily Lo of Be Chinatown.

"Street fairs play a crucial role in creating vibrant communities," says Lauro González-Arias of ArtyHood.

The legislation is expected to be implemented by late fall or winter pending approval from SFMTA's board which will vote on waiving these fees.

This initiative is part of companion legislation introduced by Mayor Breed in April aimed at streamlining outdoor event permitting processes which will go before the Board in July.