San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA – The Board of Supervisors has given final approval to Mayor London N. Breed’s legislation to establish new Entertainment Zones in Downtown San Francisco and various neighborhoods. This move makes San Francisco the first city in California to implement such zones under Senate Bill 76, authored by State Senator Scott Wiener.

The newly approved legislation allows restaurants and bars within these zones to sell alcoholic beverages for outdoor consumption during events. In May, Mayor Breed designated Front Street as the first entertainment zone. Today’s decision expands this pilot program across the city, including areas like Union Square, Mid-Market, and Thrive City in Mission Bay.

“We are focused on bringing opportunities that are good for business but that are also exciting for residents and visitors across our City,” said Mayor London Breed. “Entertainment Zones bring new economic opportunities that will help strengthen San Francisco’s Downtown and neighborhoods citywide.”

Senator Scott Wiener expressed his support: “Our downtown thrives when we bring people into the streets and support the small businesses that make it such a vibrant space.”

Sarah Dennis Phillips, Executive Director of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, stated: “This legislation sends a strong signal to our local bars and restaurants that the City is poised to support them as they experiment with new strategies.”

Under this ordinance, designated entertainment zones must adhere to specific parameters regarding open beverage containers and sales permissions limited to certain establishments. Liquor stores cannot sell open beverages within these zones.

The Entertainment Zone Act permits San Francisco to establish these zones through local ordinances approved by the Mayor and Board of Supervisors. The initial implementation includes three bars on Front Street—Schroeder’s, Harrington’s, and Royal Exchange—collaborating with local organizations for recurring street closures featuring live entertainment.

Ben Bleiman of Harrington’s Bar & Grill remarked: “We are telling residents, visitors, and businesses that we are ready to see Downtown San Francisco activated with exciting public spaces.”

Robbie Silver from Downtown SF Partnership highlighted the significance of rethinking public spaces: “Launching California’s first ever entertainment zone on Front Street is significant.”

The Office of Economic Workforce and Development will continue engaging stakeholders interested in establishing additional entertainment zones throughout the city.

Steve Gibson from Mid-Market Foundation commented: “Creating an Entertainment Zone in Mid-Market will support local businesses...by drawing foot traffic.”

Marisa Rodriguez from Union Square Alliance noted: “Union Square is already a magnet for nightlife...we are excited for the opportunity to explore how entertainment zones can work for Union Square.”

To further support these initiatives, Mayor Breed has directed OEWD to partner with San Francisco New Deal on a grant program offering up to $50,000 for new economic revitalization projects.

These efforts align with Mayor Breed's broader Roadmap to San Francisco’s Future plan aimed at boosting neighborhood vitality through arts and culture initiatives. Her two-year budget proposal includes $15 million for revitalizing key hospitality districts.

Additional upcoming events include SF Live Concert Series running through November at various locations citywide. More information can be found at www.sflivefest.com.