San Francisco's Shared Spaces program allows businesses to use sidewalks and parking lanes for outdoor dining and commercial activities. As of 2025, small businesses can set up tables and chairs on sidewalks without a permit or fee. Larger parklet structures require permits with design standards.
San Francisco's Shared Spaces program, made permanent after the COVID-19 pandemic, allows merchants to use sidewalks, parking lanes, and other public spaces for commercial activities. As of August 2025, small businesses no longer need a permit or fee to set up tables, chairs, or merchandise displays on the sidewalk, significantly simplifying outdoor dining. For fixed parklet structures in the parking lane, a Shared Spaces permit is required. Two types of parklets are available: Commercial Parklets (fixed structures with public seating) and Movable Commercial Parklets (using movable fixtures during limited business hours). Design requirements include 3-foot setbacks on both sides of the parklet and a 3-foot emergency access gap for parklets longer than 20 feet. Parklet surfaces must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant. After application approval, Public Works conducts a preliminary inspection and posts a 10-day public notice. Permits must be displayed in the storefront window. The program is managed jointly by Public Works, SFMTA, and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development.
Operating a non-compliant parklet may result in permit revocation and removal orders. Parklets blocking emergency access or failing safety inspections face immediate enforcement.
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