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San Francisco, CA Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Standard filing deadline
90 days before event
Absolute late-filing floor
60 days before event
Reviewing body
ISCOTT recommendation to Director
Late fee
Set by MTA Board

Summary

Street fair organizers must file with the Director of Transportation at least 90 days before the event, with late filings barred inside 60 days absent extraordinary cause.

In order to provide for the safe, orderly and cost-effective conduct of street fairs, any organization seeking permission for the temporary use of a street for a Street Fair shall file an application with the Director at least 90 days before the proposed date for the event.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-96: Codes: last updated to include changes made by legislation through Ordinance 133-26, File No. 260686, approved July 23, 2026, effective August 23, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Transportation Code Section 6.4.1 governs all San Francisco street fair permits, superseding other Code provisions on the application and fee process. Sponsors must file with the Director of Transportation at least 90 days before the proposed event date. Late applications are barred unless the sponsor shows extraordinary circumstances justified the delay, and even then no application may be filed less than 60 days before the event; the MTA Board of Directors may impose an added late fee. ISCOTT reviews the completed application and recommends approval, denial, or conditions before the Director issues the permit.

Violations & Fines

Holding a street fair without an approved Director/ISCOTT permit is an unlawful street obstruction; organizers can be cited and the event shut down.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance must a San Francisco street fair permit be filed?
At least 90 days before the event under Transportation Code Section 6.4.1(b)(1); late filings need extraordinary justification and can't go below 60 days.
Can a street fair permit be filed late in San Francisco?
Only if the Director finds extraordinary circumstances excused the delay, and never less than 60 days before the event, with a possible late fee.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Francisco

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All San Francisco rules

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