Article 2 — USE DISTRICTS›SEC. 209. DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE OF RESIDENTIAL AND RESIDENTIAL-COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS.
SEC. 209.1. RH (RESIDENTIAL, HOUSE) DISTRICTS.
San Francisco Planning Code · 2025 edition · updated 2026-07-25 · San Francisco
(See Interpretations related to this Section.)
These Districts are intended to recognize, protect, conserve, and enhance areas characterized by dwellings in the form of houses and small multi-family buildings, usually with one, two, or three units with separate entrances, and limited scale in terms of building width and height, and characterized by rear yards and a pattern of mid-block open spaces. Such areas tend to have similarity of building styles and predominantly contain large units suitable for family occupancy, considerable open space, and limited nonresidential uses. The RH Districts are composed of five separate classes of districts, as follows:
RH-1(D) Districts: One-Family (Detached Dwellings). These Districts are characterized by lots of greater width and area than in other parts of the City, and by single-family houses with side yards. The structures are relatively large, but rarely exceed 35 feet in height. Ground level open space and landscaping at the front and rear are usually abundant. Much of the development has been in sizable tracts with similarities of building style and narrow streets following the contours of hills. In some cases private covenants have controlled the nature of development and helped to maintain the street areas.
RH-1 Districts: One-Family. These Districts are occupied almost entirely by single-family houses on lots 25 feet in width, without side yards. Floor sizes and building styles vary, but tend to be uniform within tracts developed in distinct time periods. Though built on separate lots, the structures have the appearance of small-scale row housing, rarely exceeding 35 feet in height. Front setbacks are common, and ground level open space is generous. In most cases the single-family character of these Districts has been maintained for a considerable time.
RH-1(S) Districts: One-Family with Minor Second Unit. These Districts are similar in character to RH-1 Districts, except that a small second dwelling unit has been installed in many structures, usually by conversion of a ground-story space formerly part of the main unit or devoted to storage. The second unit remains subordinate to the owner's unit, and may house one or two persons related to the owner or be rented to others. Despite these conversions, the structures retain the appearance of single-family dwellings.
RH-2 Districts: Two-Family. These Districts are devoted to one-family and two-family houses, with the latter commonly consisting of two large flats, one occupied by the owner and the other available for rental. Structures are finely scaled and usually do not exceed 25 feet in width or 40 feet in height. Building styles are often more varied than in historically single-family
areas, but certain streets and tracts are quite uniform. Considerable ground-level open space is available, and it frequently is private for each unit. The Districts may have easy access to shopping facilities and transit lines. In some cases, Group Housing and institutions are found in these areas, although nonresidential uses tend to be quite limited.
RH-3 Districts: Three-Family. These Districts have many similarities to RH-2 Districts, but structures with three units are common in addition to one-family and two-family houses. The predominant form is large flats rather than apartments, with lots 25 feet wide, a fine or moderate scale, and separate entrances for each unit. Building styles tend to be varied but complementary to one another. Outdoor space is available at ground level, and also on decks and balconies for individual units. Nonresidential uses are more common in these areas than in RH-2 Districts.
Table 209.1
ZONING CONTROL TABLE FOR RH DISTRICTS
| Zoning Category | § References | RH-1(D) | RH-1 | RH-1(S) | RH-2 | RH-3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoning Category | § References | RH-1(D) | RH-1 | RH-1(S) | RH-2 | RH-3 |
| BUILDING STANDARDS | BUILDING STANDARDS | BUILDING STANDARDS | BUILDING STANDARDS | BUILDING STANDARDS | BUILDING STANDARDS | BUILDING STANDARDS |
| Massing and Setbacks | Massing and Setbacks | Massing and Setbacks | Massing and Setbacks | Massing and Setbacks | Massing and Setbacks | Massing and Setbacks |
| Height and Bulk Limits | §§ 102, 105, 106, 250-252, 253, 260, 261 , 261.1, 270, 271. See also Height and Bulk District Maps. |
No portion of a Dwelling may be taller than 35 feet. Structures with uses other than Dwellings may be constructed to the prescribed height limit, which is generally 40 feet. Per § 261 the height limit may be decreased or increased based on the slope of the lot. |
No portion of a Dwelling may be taller than 35 feet. Structures with uses other than Dwellings may be constructed to the prescribed height limit, which is generally 40 feet. Per § 261 the height limit may be decreased or increased based on the slope of the lot. |
No portion of a Dwelling may be taller than 35 feet. Structures with uses other than Dwellings may be constructed to the prescribed height limit, which is generally 40 feet. Per § 261 the height limit may be decreased or increased based on the slope of the lot. |
No portion of a Dwelling may be taller than 40 feet. Structures with uses other than Dwellings may be constructed to the prescribed height limit. Per § 261 the height limit may be decreased based on the slope of the lot. |
Varies, but generally 40 feet. Height sculpting on Alleys per § 261.1. |
| Front Setback | §§ 130, 131, 132 | Required. Based on the front setback of the adjacent property with the shortest front setback or if subject property has a Legislated Setback. When front setback is based on adjacent properties, in no case shall the required setback be greater than 10 feet. |
Required. Based on the front setback of the adjacent property with the shortest front setback or if subject property has a Legislated Setback. When front setback is based on adjacent properties, in no case shall the required setback be greater than 10 feet. |
Required. Based on the front setback of the adjacent property with the shortest front setback or if subject property has a Legislated Setback. When front setback is based on adjacent properties, in no case shall the required setback be greater than 10 feet. |
Required. Based on the front setback of the adjacent property with the shortest front setback or if subject property has a Legislated Setback. When front setback is based on adjacent properties, in no case shall the required setback be greater than 10 feet. |
Required. Based on the front setback of the adjacent property with the shortest front setback or if subject property has a Legislated Setback. When front setback is based on adjacent properties, in no case shall the required setback be greater than 10 feet. |
| Rear Yard | §§ 130, 134 | 30% of lot depth, but in no case less than 15 feet. | 30% of lot depth, but in no case less than 15 feet. | 30% of lot depth, but in no case less than 15 feet. | 30% of lot depth, but in no case less than 15 feet. | 30% of lot depth, but in no case less than 15 feet. |
| Side Yard | §§ 130, 133 | Required for Lots 28 feet and wider. Width of side setback depends on width of lot. |
Not Required | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required |
| Residential Design Guidelines | § 311 | Subject to the Residential Design Guidelines. Other design guidelines that have been approved by the Planning Commission may also apply. | Subject to the Residential Design Guidelines. Other design guidelines that have been approved by the Planning Commission may also apply. | Subject to the Residential Design Guidelines. Other design guidelines that have been approved by the Planning Commission may also apply. | Subject to the Residential Design Guidelines. Other design guidelines that have been approved by the Planning Commission may also apply. | Subject to the Residential Design Guidelines. Other design guidelines that have been approved by the Planning Commission may also apply. |
| Street Frontage and Public Realm | Street Frontage and Public Realm | Street Frontage and Public Realm | Street Frontage and Public Realm | Street Frontage and Public Realm | Street Frontage and Public Realm | Street Frontage and Public Realm |
| Front Setback Landscaping and Permeability Requirements |
§ 132 | Required. At least 50% of Front Setback shall be permeable so as to increase storm water infiltration and 20% of Front Setback shall be unpaved and devoted to plant material. |
Required. At least 50% of Front Setback shall be permeable so as to increase storm water infiltration and 20% of Front Setback shall be unpaved and devoted to plant material. |
Required. At least 50% of Front Setback shall be permeable so as to increase storm water infiltration and 20% of Front Setback shall be unpaved and devoted to plant material. |
Required. At least 50% of Front Setback shall be permeable so as to increase storm water infiltration and 20% of Front Setback shall be unpaved and devoted to plant material. |
Required. At least 50% of Front Setback shall be permeable so as to increase storm water infiltration and 20% of Front Setback shall be unpaved and devoted to plant material. |
| Streetscape and Pedestrian Improvements (Street Trees) | § 138.1 | Required. | Required. | Required. | Required. | Required. |
| Zoning Category | § References | RH-1(D) | RH-1 | RH-1(S) | RH-2 | RH-3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Street Frontage Requirements | § 144 | § 144 applies generally. Additional requirements apply to Limited Commercial Uses, as specified in § 186. | § 144 applies generally. Additional requirements apply to Limited Commercial Uses, as specified in § 186. | § 144 applies generally. Additional requirements apply to Limited Commercial Uses, as specified in § 186. | § 144 applies generally. Additional requirements apply to Limited Commercial Uses, as specified in § 186. | § 144 applies generally. Additional requirements apply to Limited Commercial Uses, as specified in § 186. |
| Street Frontage, Parking and Loading Access Restrictions |
§ 155(r) | As specified in § 155(r) | As specified in § 155(r) | As specified in § 155(r) | As specified in § 155(r) | As specified in § 155(r) |
| Miscellaneous | Miscellaneous | Miscellaneous | Miscellaneous | Miscellaneous | Miscellaneous | Miscellaneous |
| Planned Unit Development | § 304 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Awning | § 136.1 | P (1) | P (1) | P (1) | P (1) | P (1) |
| Canopy or Marquee | § 136.1 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Signs | § 606 | As permitted by Section § 606 | As permitted by Section § 606 | As permitted by Section § 606 | As permitted by Section § 606 | As permitted by Section § 606 |
| RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES |
Development Standards
| Usable Open Space [Per Dwelling Unit] |
§§ 135, 136 | At least 300 square feet if private, and 400 square feet if common. |
At least 300 square feet if private, and 400 square feet if common. |
At least 300 square feet for the first unit and 100 for the minor second unit if private, and 400 square feet for the first unit and 133 square feet for the second unit if common. |
At least 125 square feet if private, and 166 square feet if common. |
At least 100 square feet if private, and 133 square feet if common. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parking Requirements | §§ 151, 161 | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. |
| Residential Conversion, Demolition, or Merger | § 317 | C for Removal of one or more Residential Units or Unauthorized Units. | C for Removal of one or more Residential Units or Unauthorized Units. | C for Removal of one or more Residential Units or Unauthorized Units. | C for Removal of one or more Residential Units or Unauthorized Units. | C for Removal of one or more Residential Units or Unauthorized Units. |
| Use Characteristics | Use Characteristics | Use Characteristics | Use Characteristics | Use Characteristics | Use Characteristics | Use Characteristics |
| Intermediate Length Occupancy | §§102, 202.10 | P(9) | P(9) | P(9) | P(9) | P(9) |
| Single Room Occupancy | § 102 | P | P | P | P | P |
| Student Housing | § 102 | P | P | P | P | P |
| Residential Uses | Residential Uses | Residential Uses | Residential Uses | Residential Uses | Residential Uses | Residential Uses |
| Residential Density, Dwelling Units (6) (11) | §§ 102, 207 | P up to one One1 unit per lot, or one unit per 3,000 square feet of lot area, with no more than three units per lot. |
P up to one unit per lot, or up to one unit per 3,000 square feet of lot area. |
P up to two units per lot, if the second unit is 600 sq. ft. or less, or up to one unit per 3,000 square feet of lot area, with no more than three units per lot. |
P up to two units per lot, or up to one unit per 1,500 square feet of lot area. |
P up to three units per lot, or up to one unit per 1,000 square feet of lot area. |
| Senior Housing | §§ 102, 202.2(f) | P up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all the requirements of § 202.2(f)(1). C up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all requirements of Section § 202.2(f)(1) except for § 202.2(f)(1)(D)(iv), related to location. |
P up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all the requirements of § 202.2(f)(1). C up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all requirements of Section § 202.2(f)(1) except for § 202.2(f)(1)(D)(iv), related to location. |
P up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all the requirements of § 202.2(f)(1). C up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all requirements of Section § 202.2(f)(1) except for § 202.2(f)(1)(D)(iv), related to location. |
P up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all the requirements of § 202.2(f)(1). C up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all requirements of Section § 202.2(f)(1) except for § 202.2(f)(1)(D)(iv), related to location. |
P up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all the requirements of § 202.2(f)(1). C up to twice the number of dwelling units otherwise permitted as a principal use in the district and meeting all requirements of Section § 202.2(f)(1) except for § 202.2(f)(1)(D)(iv), related to location. |
| Zoning Category | § References | RH-1(D) | RH-1 | RH-1(S) | RH-2 | RH-3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Density, Group Housing | § 208 | NP (10) | NP (10) | NP (10) | P, up to one bedroom for every 415 square feet of lot area. |
P, up to one bedroom for every 275 square feet of lot area. |
| Homeless Shelter | §§ 102, 208 | P | P | P | P | P |
| NON-RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS AND USES | ||||||
| Development Standards | Development Standards | Development Standards | Development Standards | Development Standards | Development Standards | Development Standards |
| Floor Area Ratio | §§ 102, 123, 124 | 1.8 to 1 | 1.8 to 1 | 1.8 to 1 | 1.8 to 1 | 1.8 to 1 |
| Use Size | §§ 102, 121.5 | Division of large use sizes per § 121.5 | Division of large use sizes per § 121.5 | Division of large use sizes per § 121.5 | Division of large use sizes per § 121.5 | Division of large use sizes per § 121.5 |
| Off-Street Parking | §§ 150, 151, 161 | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. | None required. Maximum permitted per § 151. |
| Limited Commercial Uses | §§ 186, 186.3 | Continuing nonconforming uses are permitted, subject to the requirements of § 186. Limited Commercial Uses may be conditionally permitted in historic buildings subject to § 186.3. |
Continuing nonconforming uses are permitted, subject to the requirements of § 186. Limited Commercial Uses may be conditionally permitted in historic buildings subject to § 186.3. |
Continuing nonconforming uses are permitted, subject to the requirements of § 186. Limited Commercial Uses may be conditionally permitted in historic buildings subject to § 186.3. |
Continuing nonconforming uses are permitted, subject to the requirements of § 186. Limited Commercial Uses may be conditionally permitted in historic buildings subject to § 186.3. |
Continuing nonconforming uses are permitted, subject to the requirements of § 186. Limited Commercial Uses may be conditionally permitted in historic buildings subject to § 186.3. |
| Limited Corner Commercial Uses | § 231 | P on a Corner Lot, with no part of the use extending more than 50 feet in depth from said corner; NP if the LCCU would require the Residential Conversion of a Residential Unit or Unauthorized Unit under Planning Code Section 317, unless the space proposed for conversion is occupied by a garage or storage space located in the Basement or First Story. |
P on a Corner Lot, with no part of the use extending more than 50 feet in depth from said corner; NP if the LCCU would require the Residential Conversion of a Residential Unit or Unauthorized Unit under Planning Code Section 317, unless the space proposed for conversion is occupied by a garage or storage space located in the Basement or First Story. |
P on a Corner Lot, with no part of the use extending more than 50 feet in depth from said corner; NP if the LCCU would require the Residential Conversion of a Residential Unit or Unauthorized Unit under Planning Code Section 317, unless the space proposed for conversion is occupied by a garage or storage space located in the Basement or First Story. |
P on a Corner Lot, with no part of the use extending more than 50 feet in depth from said corner; NP if the LCCU would require the Residential Conversion of a Residential Unit or Unauthorized Unit under Planning Code Section 317, unless the space proposed for conversion is occupied by a garage or storage space located in the Basement or First Story. |
P on a Corner Lot, with no part of the use extending more than 50 feet in depth from said corner; NP if the LCCU would require the Residential Conversion of a Residential Unit or Unauthorized Unit under Planning Code Section 317, unless the space proposed for conversion is occupied by a garage or storage space located in the Basement or First Story. |
| Commercial Use Characteristics | Commercial Use Characteristics | Commercial Use Characteristics | Commercial Use Characteristics | Commercial Use Characteristics | Commercial Use Characteristics | Commercial Use Characteristics |
| Drive-up Facility | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Formula Retail | §§ 102, 303.1 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Hours of Operation | §§ 102, 186, 231 | For Limited Corner Commercial Uses under § 231 and Limited Commercial Uses under § 186: P 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; NP 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. |
For Limited Corner Commercial Uses under § 231 and Limited Commercial Uses under § 186: P 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; NP 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. |
For Limited Corner Commercial Uses under § 231 and Limited Commercial Uses under § 186: P 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; NP 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. |
For Limited Corner Commercial Uses under § 231 and Limited Commercial Uses under § 186: P 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; NP 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. |
For Limited Corner Commercial Uses under § 231 and Limited Commercial Uses under § 186: P 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; NP 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. |
| Maritime Use | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Open Air Sales | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Outdoor Activity Area | §§ 102, 145.2, 186, 202.2, 231 |
P if located in front of building; NP if elsewhere. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walk-up Facility | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Agricultural Use Category | Agricultural Use Category | Agricultural Use Category | Agricultural Use Category | Agricultural Use Category | Agricultural Use Category | Agricultural Use Category |
| Agricultural Uses* | §§ 102, 202.2(c) | C | C | C | C | C |
| Agriculture, Industrial | §§ 102, 202.2(c) | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Agriculture, Neighborhood | §§ 102, 202.2(c) | P | P | P | P | P |
| Zoning Category | § References | RH-1(D) | RH-1 | RH-1(S) | RH-2 | RH-3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Use Category | Automotive Use Category | Automotive Use Category | Automotive Use Category | Automotive Use Category | Automotive Use Category | Automotive Use Category |
| Automotive Uses* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Parking Garage, Private | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Parking Lot, Private | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Parking Lot, Public | §§ 102, 142, 156 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Entertainment, Arts and Recreation Use Category | ||||||
| Entertainment, Arts and Recreation Uses* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Open Recreation Area | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Passive Outdoor Recreation | § 102 | P | P | P | P | P |
| Industrial Use Category | Industrial Use Category | Industrial Use Category | Industrial Use Category | Industrial Use Category | Industrial Use Category | Industrial Use Category |
| Industrial Uses* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Institutional Use Category | Institutional Use Category | Institutional Use Category | Institutional Use Category | Institutional Use Category | Institutional Use Category | Institutional Use Category |
| Institutional Uses* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Child Care Facility | § 102 | P | P | P | P | P |
| Community Facility | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Hospital | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Post-Secondary Ed. Institution | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Public Facilities | § 102 | P | P | P | P | P |
| Religious Institution | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Residential Care Facility | § 102 | P | P | P | P | P |
| School | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Sales and Service Category | Sales and Service Category | Sales and Service Category | Sales and Service Category | Sales and Service Category | Sales and Service Category | Sales and Service Category |
| Retail Sales and Service Uses* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Hotel | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | C (4) | C (4) |
| Mortuary | § 102 | C (5) | C (5) | C (5) | C (5) | C (5) |
| Non-Retail Sales and Service* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Utility and Infrastructure Use Category | ||||||
| Utility and Infrastructure* | § 102 | NP | NP | NP | NP | NP |
| Internet Service Exchange | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Utility Installation | § 102 | C | C | C | C | C |
| Wireless Telecommunications Services Facility | § 102 | C or P (7) | C or P (7) | C or P (7) | C or P (7) | C or P (7) |
- Not listed below.
(1) P for Limited Commercial Uses and Limited Corner Commercial Uses per § 136.1 only; otherwise NP.
(2) [Note Deleted]
(3) [Note deleted]
(4) C for five or fewer guest rooms or suites of rooms; NP for six or more guest rooms.
(5) Must be located on a landmark site, and where the site is within a Height and Bulk District of 40 feet or less, and where a columbarium use has lawfully and continuously operated since the time of designation.
(6) Construction of Accessory Dwelling Units may be permitted pursuant to Sections 207.1 and 207.2.
(7) C if a Macro WTS Facility; P if a Micro WTS Facility.
(8) [Note expired.]
(9) NP for buildings with three or fewer Dwelling Units; C for buildings with 10 or more Dwelling Units.
(10) Group Housing permitted at one room per 415 sq. ft. of lot area according to the provisions in Planning Code Section 207(c)(8).
(11) P for up to four dwelling units per lot, excluding Corner Lots, and P for up to six dwelling units in Corner Lots, pursuant to Section 207(c)(8).
(Added as Sec. 206.1 by Ord. 443-78, App. 10/6/78; redesignated and amended by Ord. 22-15, File No. 141253, App. 2/20/2015, Eff. 3/22/2015; amended by Ord. 161-15, File No. 150804, App. 9/18/2015, Eff. 10/18/2015; Ord. 162-15, File No. 150805, App. 9/18/2015, Eff. 10/18/2015; Ord. 188-15, File No. 150871, App. 11/4/2015, Eff. 12/4/2015; Ord. 33-16, File No. 160115, App. 3/11/2016, Eff. 4/10/2016; Ord. 162-16, File No. 160657, App. 8/4/2016, Eff. 9/3/2016; Ord. 166-16, File No. 160477, App. 8/11/2016, Eff. 9/10/2016; Ord. 129-17, File No. 170203, App. 6/30/2017, Eff. 7/30/2017; Ord. 189-17, File No. 170693, App. 9/15/2017, Eff. 10/15/2017; Ord. 229-17, File No. 171041, App. 12/6/2017, Eff. 1/5/2018; Ord. 168-18, File No. 180191, App. 7/17/2018, Eff. 8/17/2018; Ord. 303-18, File No. 180915, App. 12/21/2018, Eff. 1/21/2019; Ord. 311-18, File No. 181028, App. 12/21/2018, Eff. 1/21/2019; Ord. 116-19, File No. 181156, App. 6/28/2019, Eff. 7/29/2019; Ord. 206-19, File No. 190048, App. 9/13/2019, Eff. 10/14/2019; Ord. 63-20, File No. 200077, App. 4/24/2020, Eff. 5/25/2020; Ord. 78-20, File No. 191075, App. 5/22/2020, Eff. 6/22/2020; Ord. 136-21, File No. 210674, App. 8/4/2021, Eff. 9/4/2021; Ord. 149-21, File No. 210535, App. 9/29/2021, Eff. 10/30/2021; Ord. 210-22, File No. 210866, App. 10/28/2022, Eff. 11/28/2022; Ord. 248-23, File No. 230446, App. 12/14/2023, Eff. 1/14/2024; Ord. 249-23, File No. 230701, App. 12/14/2023, Eff. 1/14/2024; Ord. 33-24, File No. 231144, App. 2/21/2024, Eff. 3/23/2024; Ord. 62-24, File No. 230310, App. 3/28/2024, Eff. 4/28/2024; Ord. 85-24, File No. 231221, App. 4/26/2024, Eff. 5/27/2024; Ord. 297-24, File No. 241055, App. 12/19/2024, Eff. 1/19/2025; Ord. 173-25, File No. 250634, App. 9/5/2025, Eff. 10/6/2025)
ile No. 231144, App. 2/21/2024, Eff. 3/23/2024; Ord. 62-24, File No. 230310, App. 3/28/2024, Eff. 4/28/2024; Ord. 85-24, File No. 231221, App. 4/26/2024, Eff. 5/27/2024; Ord. 297-24,](https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/o0033-24.pdf) File No. 241055, App. 12/19/2024, Eff. 1/19/2025; Ord. 173-25, File No. 250634, App. 9/5/2025, Eff. 10/6/2025)
(Former Sec. 209.1 added by Ord. 443-78, App. 10/6/78; amended by Ord. 72-08, File No. 071157, App. 4/3/2008; Ord. 298-08, File No. 081153, App. 12/19/2008; Ord. 130-10, File No. 090906, App. 6/24/2010; repealed by Ord. 22-15, File No. 141253, App. 2/20/2015, Eff. 3/22/2015)
AMENDMENT HISTORY
Former Sec. 206.1 redesignated as Sec. 209.1; Table 209.1 added; Ord. 22-15, Eff. 3/22/2015. Note (7) added; Ords. 161-15 and 162-15, Eff. 10/18/2015. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 188-15, Eff. 12/4/2015. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 33-16, Eff. 4/10/2016. Note (7) amended; Ord. 162-16, Eff. 9/3/2016. Table 209.1 amended; second Note (7) added; Ord. 166-16, Eff. 9/10/2016. Table 209.1 amended; Note (5) deleted; Note (6) and first Note (7) redesignated as Notes (5) and (6); Ord. 129-17, Eff. 7/30/2017. Table 209.1 amended; Note (2) deleted; Ord. 189-17, Eff. 10/15/2017. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 229-17, Eff. 1/5/2018. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 229-17, Eff. 1/5/2018. Table 209.1 and Notes (3) and (4) amended; Note (8) added; Ord. 168-18, Eff. 8/17/2018. Note (6) amended; Ord. 116-19, Eff. 7/29/2019. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 206-19, Eff. 10/14/2019. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 63-20, Eff. 5/25/2020. Table 209.1 amended; Note (9) added; Ord. 78-20, Eff. 6/22/2020. Note (9) amended; Ord. 136-21, Eff. 9/4/2021. Table 209.1 amended; Note (3) deleted; Ord. 149-21, Eff. 10/30/2021. Undesignated introductory paragraphs and Table 209.1 amended; Notes (10) and (11) added; Ord. 210-22, Eff. 11/28/2022. Table 209.1 and Note (10) amended; Ord. 248-23, Eff. 1/14/2024. Undesignated introductory paragraphs, Table 209.1, and Note (1) amended; Ord. 249-23, Eff. 1/14/2024. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 33-24, Eff. 3/23/2024. Note (6) amended; Ord. 62-24, Eff. 4/28/2024. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 85-24, Eff. 5/27/2024. Note (8) expired 8/17/2024. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 297-24, Eff. 1/19/2025. Table 209.1 amended; Ord. 173-25, Eff. 10/6/2025.
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Ask AI about this code▸ Contents — San Francisco Planning Code
- Article 1 — GENERAL ZONING PROVISIONS
- Article 1.2 — DIMENSIONS, AREAS, AND OPEN SPACES
- Article 1.5 — TRANSPORTATION, OFF-STREET PARKING, AND LOADING
- Article 1.7 — COMPLIANCE
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▸ Article 2 — USE DISTRICTS
Overview- SEC. 202. PERMITTED BY THIS CODE.
- SEC. 204. ACCESSORY USES, GENERAL.
- SEC. 205. TEMPORARY USES, GENERAL.
- SEC. 207. DWELLING UNIT DENSITY LIMITS.
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▸ SEC. 209. DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE OF RESIDENTIAL AND RESIDENTI…
Overview- SEC. 209.1. RH (RESIDENTIAL, HOUSE) DISTRICTS.
- SEC. 209.2. RM (RESIDENTIAL, MIXED) DISTRICTS.
- SEC. 209.3. RC (RESIDENTIAL-COMMERCIAL) DISTRICTS.
- SEC. 209.4. RTO (RESIDENTIAL TRANSIT ORIENTED) DISTRICTS.
- SEC. 209.5. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 209.6. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 209.7. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 209.8. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 209.9. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 209.10. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 210. DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE OF COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, A…
- SEC. 211. P (PUBLIC) DISTRICTS.
- SEC. 218. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 219. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 221. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 226. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 234. [REDESIGNATED.]
- SEC. 244. RESIDENTIAL CHARACTER DISTRICTS.
- SEC. 249.1. FOLSOM AND MAIN RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL SPECIAL USE…
- SEC. 249.2. THE VILLAGE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.3. OCEANVIEW LARGE RESIDENCE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.4. ALEXANDRIA THEATER SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.5. NORTH OF MARKET RESIDENTIAL SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.6. SOUTH OF MARKET HALL OF JUSTICE LEGAL SERVICES SPE…
- SEC. 249.8. [ NON-PROFIT ARTS EDUCATION SPECIAL USE]. [1]
- SEC. 249.9. STONESTOWN SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.10. 600 TOWNSEND STREET WEST SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.11. 530 SANSOME MIXED-USE TOWER AND FIRE STATION SPEC…
- SEC. 249.12. 1500 MISSION STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.13. GEARY BOULEVARD/DIVISADERO STREET SPECIAL USE DIS…
- SEC. 249.14. THIRD STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.15. MISSION AND 9TH STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.16. OAKDALE AVENUE AND QUINT STREET AFFORDABLE HOUSIN…
- SEC. 249.17. THIRD STREET AND ARMSTRONG AVENUE AFFORDABLE HOUS…
- SEC. 249.18. NORTHEAST CHINA BASIN SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.19. NEW ASIA SENIOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING SPECIAL USE DI…
- SEC. 249.20. GEARY-MASONIC SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.21. CALIFORNIA STREET AND PRESIDIO AVENUE - COMMUNITY…
- SEC. 249.22. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 249.23. FOURTH AND FREELON STREETS SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.24. HAIGHT STREET SENIOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING SPECIAL U…
- SEC. 249.25. JACKSON SQUARE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.26. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 249.27. ALABAMA AND 18TH STREETS AFFORDABLE HOUSING SPECI…
- SEC. 249.28. TRANSBAY C-3 SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.30. THIRD STREET AND OAKDALE AVENUE AFFORDABLE HOUSIN…
- SEC. 249.31. JAPANTOWN SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.32. LAGUNA, HAIGHT, BUCHANAN AND HERMANN STREETS SPEC…
- SEC. 249.34. TRINITY PLAZA SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.35. FRINGE FINANCIAL SERVICE RESTRICTED USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.36. [REPEALED.]
- SEC. 249.37. INNOVATIVE INDUSTRIES SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.38. SOMA YOUTH AND FAMILY SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.40. POTRERO CENTER MIXED-USE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.41. 901 BUSH STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.42. INDIA BASIN INDUSTRIAL PARK SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.43. THIRD STREET AND LE CONTE AVENUE AFFORDABLE HOUSI…
- SEC. 249.44. HUNTERS VIEW SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.45. VISITACION VALLEY/SCHLAGE LOCK SPECIAL USE DISTRI…
- SEC. 249.46. VETERANS COMMON SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.47. 1500 PAGE STREET AFFORDABLE HOUSING SPECIAL USE D…
- SEC. 249.49. TELEGRAPH HILL – NORTH BEACH RESIDENTIAL SPECIAL …
- SEC. 249.50. CANDLESTICK POINT ACTIVITY NODE SPECIAL USE DISTR…
- SEC. 249.51. HUNTERS POINT SHIPYARD PHASE 2 SPECIAL USE DISTRI…
- SEC. 249.53. PRESIDIO-SUTTER SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.54. EXECUTIVE PARK SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.55. LOMBARD AND SCOTT STREET AFFORDABLE GROUP HOUSING…
- SEC. 249.59. CALLE 24 SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.60. MISSION ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.61. 17TH AND RHODE ISLAND STREET GROCERY STORE SPECIA…
- SEC. 249.62. THIRD STREET ALCOHOL RESTRICTED USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.63. CAYUGA/ALEMANY SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.64. PARKMERCED SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.65. BAYSHORE BOULEVARD HOME IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL USE D…
- SEC. 249.66. CHINATOWN TRANSIT STATION SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.67. ART & DESIGN EDUCATIONAL SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.68. CESAR CHAVEZ/VALENCIA STREETS MEDICAL USE SPECIAL…
- SEC. 249.69. CHINESE HOSPITAL SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.70. [EXPIRED.]
- SEC. 249.71. YERBA BUENA CENTER MIXED-USE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.73. JEWISH HOME OF SAN FRANCISCO SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.74. FIFTH AND MISSION SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.75. SUNNYDALE HOPE SF SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.76. POTRERO HOPE SF SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.77. CORONA HEIGHTS LARGE RESIDENCE SPECIAL USE DISTRI…
- SEC. 249.78. CENTRAL SOMA SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.79. PIER 70 SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.80. MISSION ROCK SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.81. 1629 MARKET STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.82. 430 29TH AVENUE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.84. INDIA BASIN SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.85. 1550 EVANS AVENUE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.86. 3333 CALIFORNIA STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.87. POTRERO POWER STATION SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.89. 2000 MARIN STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.90. BALBOA RESERVOIR SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.91. 2500-2530 18TH STREET AFFORDABLE HOUSING SPECIAL …
- SEC. 249.92. CENTRAL NEIGHBORHOODS LARGE RESIDENCE SPECIAL USE…
- SEC. 249.93. GROUP HOUSING SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.94. FAMILY AND SENIOR HOUSING OPPORTUNITY SPECIAL USE…
- SEC. 249.95. 900 KEARNY STREET SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.96. WAWONA STREET AND 45TH AVENUE CULTURAL CENTER SPE…
- SEC. 249.97. PRIORITY EQUITY GEOGRAPHIES SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.98. POTRERO YARD SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- SEC. 249.99. 30 VAN NESS AVENUE SPECIAL USE DISTRICT.
- Article 2.5 — HEIGHT AND BULK DISTRICTS
- Article 3 — ZONING PROCEDURES
- Article 3.5 — FEES
- Article 4 — DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES AND PROJECT REQUIREMENTS T…
- Article 5 — [RESERVED] ARTICLE 6: SIGNS
- Article 7 — NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS
- Article 8 — MIXED USE DISTRICTS
- Article 9 — MISSION BAY DISTRICTS
- Part I — SCOPE, PURPOSE AND RELATIONSHIPS
- Part II — USES
- Part III — DENSITY
- Part IV — HEIGHT
- Part V — BUILDING FORM
- Part VI — OPEN AREAS
- Part VII — PARKING
- Part VIII — SIGNS
- Part X — OFFICE SPACE LIMITATION
- Part XI — HISTORIC PRESERVATION
- Part XII — RULES FOR NONCONFORMING USES AND NONCOMPLYING STRUC…
- Part XIII — COMPLIANCE, PERMIT APPROVAL AND ENFORCEMENT
- Part XIV — FEES
- Part XV — DEFINITIONS
- Part XVI — SEVERABILITY