BUILDING PERMIT

APPLICATION
PACKET
Planning Code Section 311/312 Notifications for
Residential and Neighborhood Commercial Districts.

PLANNING DEPARTMENT
CITY AND COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO

July 29, 2009

THIS PACKET CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING

DOCUMENTS

“The Planning Department and the Building Permit Application Process”

“Materials Required for Planning Department Review”
Application Materials Matrix
“Public Notification for Residential Building Permits”
Sample map
Affidavit
“Planning Code Sections 311/312 Reprints”
“Section 311 Neighborhood Notification Instructions”
“Section 312 Neighborhood Notification Instructions”
 THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AND THE
BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS
INTRODUCTION

The Department of City Planning has prepared this document to guide building permit applicants through
the permit submittal process as it relates to Planning Department procedures required by Planning Code
Section 311/312.

This publication addresses only those procedures and materials required for Planning Department review
of a building permit application. Overall, building permit application review is coordinated by the
Department of Building Inspection (DBI), Central Permit Bureau. Life-safety, structural integrity, health,
disability access and other issues require that a building permit application be reviewed by the DBI and
other City departments. The Planning Department’s responsibility is to review the intended use of a
building and the potential effects of its proposed building envelope. During Planning’s review period, a
notification process allows time for any public concerns to be expressed and incorporated into the
assessment of potential effects on surrounding properties. It is possible that public review may lead to a
request for discretionary review by the Planning Commission. Changes to a proposal may be required
before a building permit application receives final Planning Department approval.

Please read this material thoroughly before preparing a building permit application. Strict adherence to
the requirements contained herein will greatly facilitate Planning’s timely review of your building permit
application.

SUMMARY

Planning Code Section 311 has an effective date of March 4, l996 and Planning Code Section 312 has an
effective date of January 15, 2001. The full text of each measure is reprinted at the back of this document.
In any conflict between this summary and the actual language of Section(s) 311/312, the language of
Section(s) 311/312 governs. Section 311 mandates procedures 1, 2, 3 and 4, and Section 312 mandates
procedures 3, 4, and 5. For commonly asked questions and answers regarding the Section 312 process,
please ask for the handout “The 312 Notification Process”.

1. Compliance with Residential Design Guidelines. All proposed new construction, change of
use (including change in the number of dwelling units) or exterior alteration to residential
buildings in residential (RH or RM) zoning districts must comply with design policies and
guidelines of the General Plan, with city-wide Residential Design Guidelines and with any
Planning Commission-adopted residential neighborhood design guidelines or conditions placed
on the project site. Planning staff reviews applications for compliance with the Planning Code
and applicable design guidelines. An appeal of a staff decision may be made to the Planning
Commission by either project applicants or community opponents. This procedure applies to all
projects on properties in RH-1(D), RH-1, RH-1(S), RH-2, RH-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3 and RM-4
zoning districts.

2. The Pre-Application Process: Prior to filing any entitlement (this includes but is not limited to
Building Permits, Variances, and Conditional Use Authorizations) subject to Planning Code
Sections 311/312 notification procedures the project sponsor must conduct a minimum of one
pre-application meeting if the proposed scope of work triggers such a meeting. The triggers are
referenced below:

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 • New Construction (subsequent to a demolition or on an undeveloped portion of the lot);
• Vertical additions that add 7’ or more feet to the existing building height;
• Horizontal additions that add 10’ feet or more to the existing building depth at any level;
• Decks that are subject to Section 311 or 312 Notification.

On June 18th, 2009, the Planning Commission adopted a new pre-application process, which
includes a separate comprehensive pre-application packet which is located on the internet at:
http://www.sfgov.org/site/uploadedfiles/planning/Applications/PreApplicationPacket.pdf or
can be obtained at the Public Information Counter (PIC) of the Planning Department located at
1660 Mission Street, First Floor, San Francisco, CA 94103. Please refer to the packet for further
detail or contact planning staff with questions.

3. Public notification and holding period. Once a permit application for proposed new
construction or exterior expansions of buildings in RH or RM or NC districts; all changes of use
in RH or RM districts; and specified changes of use in NC districts as described in Section 312
below, including changes to a formula retail use as defined in Section 703.3; complies with the
Planning Code and all applicable design guidelines, it shall be held for 30 days from the date the
project is publicly announced in a written notice. The notice is to be mailed to all owners and, to
the degree feasible, residents of properties surrounding the site and neighborhood organizations in
the vicinity of the project to allow for their review. This notice is prepared and mailed by the
Planning staff with material provided by the permit applicant. A notice must be posted at the site
by the applicant as well. This noticing process may be waived if there has already been a public
hearing on the same project. This procedure applies to all projects on properties in RH-1(D), RH-
1, RH-1(S), RH-2, RH-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3, RM-4 (Section 311), and Neighborhood
Commercial districts (Section 312).

4. Holding demolition applications. Any application to demolish a dwelling or historical or

architecturally significant building in any residential or Neighborhood Commercial district shall
not be approved or issued until the City has granted final approval for the building permit
application of a replacement building. An exception is permitted when a building poses a serious
and imminent safety hazard. This procedure applies to all RH-1(D), RH-1, RH-1(S), RH-2, RH-
3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3, RM-4, RC-1, RC-2, RC-3, RC-4, RED, and Neighborhood Commercial
districts.

5. Compliance with design guidelines of the General Plan. All proposed new construction,
changes of use per Article 7 of the Planning Code as identified in the text of Section 312 below,
including change of use to a formula retail use as defined in Section 703.3, or alterations
expanding the exterior dimensions of the building in Neighborhood Commercial Districts must
comply with design policies and guidelines of the General Plan and periodically amended for
specific areas or conditions by the Planning Commission. Planning staff reviews applications for
compliance with the Planning Code and design guidelines of the General Plan. Planning staff
may require modifications to the exterior of a proposed new building or proposed alteration of
any building in order to bring it into conformity with the General Plan. These modifications
include, but are not limited to, changes in siting, building envelope, scale texture and detailing,
openings, and landscaping. An appeal of a staff decision may be made to the Planning
Commission by either project applicants or community opponents. This procedure applies to all
projects on properties in Neighborhood Commercial Districts.

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THE SITE PERMIT CONCEPT

To assist an applicant in obtaining Planning Department approval for a building permit application
without the need to submit a full set of working drawings, the City has developed a site permit procedure
whereby the Planning Department is the first agency to review an application. Under this procedure, an
applicant submits a building permit application to the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) with the
materials required for Planning Department review as listed under “Application Materials” beginning on
the next page and as indicated by the Application Materials Matrix attached to this packet. DBI refers the
permit application to Planning for review. Once Planning approves the permit application, it goes to the
next reviewing agency. At that time, the complete set of working drawings must be submitted to DBI.
These working drawings must be consistent with the plans previously approved by Planning or DBI will
return them to Planning for review to determine if they are still approvable. This may delay building
permit issuance and potentially require a second neighborhood notification and revision recheck fee.

INITIAL SCOPE OF PLANNING DEPARTMENT REVIEW

After receiving a building permit application referred by DBI, Planning initially reviews it for
compliance with the Planning Code and any applicable design guidelines. As a result of this
review, Planning may send the applicant a "Notice of Planning Department Requirements"
which will describe:

1. Changes necessary, including revisions to drawings, to bring the proposal into

compliance with the Planning Code or residential design guidelines.
2. Additional information, indicated under “Materials Required for Planning Department
Review” below, which was not initially submitted or additional information not initially
required but needed to complete application review due to an unforeseen situation.
3. Additional procedures needed to approve the application, such as the neighborhood
notification described below, the need to apply for a variance, conditional use application
or another authorization required for the project, or the recordation of a Notice of Special
Restrictions on the property records.

Disagreements over the interpretation or application of the Planning Code or residential design guidelines
should first be discussed with Planning staff. If an issue remains unresolved, the building permit
applicant may request it be taken before the Planning Commission for resolution under its power of
discretionary review, with costs borne by the permit applicant.

PLANNING DEPARTMENT AND APPLICANT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR PUBLIC NOTICE

The applicant prepares a neighborhood notification map, mailing list and mailing labels, and an affidavit
certifying the accuracy of such information, and posts the site with an oversized notice provided by
Planning. If the approval of an application is delayed by unresponsiveness of an applicant, the
address list and labels may have to be redone to ensure their accuracy.

Once Planning staff determines that an application is approvable, notification proceeds according to
procedures for Section 312 (Neighborhood Commercial districts), or Section 311 (RH and RM districts)
as described below.

SECTION 311/312 APPLICANT NOTICE PROCEDURES

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The instructions to applicants regarding Section 311 or Section 312 notification procedures are described
in detail in SECTION 311, Neighborhood Notification Instructions: SECTION 312, Neighborhood
Notification Instructions appended to the end of this document.

SUBSEQUENT PLANNING DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning holds the building permit application for a 30-day period from the date of mailed notification to
allow adequate time for public review of the proposal. During the notification period, any person may
ask the City Planning Commission to exercise its power of discretionary review over a building permit
application. While any person may request discretionary review, such person will typically be a
concerned neighbor of the proposal or an interested neighborhood group. The applicant may also seek
discretionary review to resolve Design Guideline compliance disagreements with staff.

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 MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR PLANNING DEPARTMENT REVIEW
Each building permit application must include two complete sets of all information listed below, except
for photographs, the notification map and address list, mailing labels and affidavit of which only one set
is required. The attached Application Materials Matrix indicates the minimum application materials
which may be required. Since it is impossible to predict what materials may be needed in every case, the
planner reviewing the permit application may request additional materials at a later time. Your
responsiveness to such a request could affect the time it will take the Planning Department to review your
permit.

APPLICATION MATERIALS

The attached Application Materials Matrix shows which materials are required for each specific type of
work. Use the matrix to determine which materials are required and prepare them according to the
specifications below.

A. Architectural Drawings

1. SITE SURVEY at a scale of 1/8" = 1'-0":

Required for new buildings, the site survey must be signed by a licensed surveyor or
engineer. A plot plan cannot substitute for the site survey. The following must be
included:

a. The full width of all buildings on adjacent lots.

b. The front setback of all adjacent buildings.
c. Curb elevation in line with the mid-point of the subject building and those on
adjacent lots.
d. Grade elevations at the mid-point of the front wall of adjacent buildings.
e. Roof elevations including the elevation of eaves and peaks of pitched roofs.
f. Contour lines.
g. Utility lines, vegetation, existing structures on the site, etc.

2. PLOT PLAN at a scale of either of 1/8" = 1'-0" or 1" = 10'-0":

The plot plan must be dimensioned to show significant measurements and signed by the
preparer. It must show both existing and proposed development on the subject lot and all
development on those lots used to compute the maximum depth of the project pursuant to
the requirements of the Planning Code. It must include:

a. Various full widths of all adjacent buildings.

Heights (in feet and number of stories) of buildings and any difference in elevation due to pitched roofs or
steps in building mass.

3. FLOOR PLANS at a scale of 1/4" = 1'-0":

The floor plans must be dimensioned to show significant measurements and show all of the
following information:

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 a. Annotations identifying the existing and intended use of all rooms.
b. All existing and proposed plumbing stacks.
All walls, those to remain and those to be removed or added.
All stairs showing the direction of ascent or descent.
All doors.

4. ELEVATIONS at a scale of 1/4" = 1'-0"

Elevations are needed of each building face related to the work for which the application is being
sought. The type of building materials on all wall surfaces and for windows and doors should be
indicated. Profiles of adjacent buildings that show the full width and roof line of each adjacent
building are required in certain instances, refer to the Applications Materials Matrix below. All
significant measurements must be dimensioned.

5. SECTIONS at a scale of 1/4" = 1'-0":

Sections through critical points of the proposed building should be provided to clarify the plans.
All significant measurements must be dimensioned.

6. LANDSCAPING PLAN at a scale of 1/8" = 1'-0":

When required, a landscaping plan with significant measurements dimensioned must show details
such as curbs, materials, plant species, and size of any street trees.

C. Schedules and material specifications for exterior work only

Provide general design details, descriptions of doors and windows including dimensions and materials
and finishes for all exterior surfaces.

D. Photographs

All photographs must clearly and accurately represent the subject property and adjacent structures. The
image of buildings should be evenly illuminated and as free from objects obstructing a clear view as
possible. Photographs must be at least 3 inches in every dimension and should not be mounted. They may
be in color or black and white. They should be submitted in an envelope labeled with the building permit
application number and street address. The back of each photograph or photo montage should be clearly
labeled to indicate the subject. Refer to the attached Application Materials Matrix to determine which
photographs are required for your type of building permit application.

E. Notification map and list

Applications to build a new building, change the use or number of dwelling units or add to an existing
building in an RH, RM or Neighborhood Commercial District must be accompanied by a notification
map, address list and affidavit prepared in compliance with the instructions in the attached handout titled,
“Public Notification for Residential and Neighborhood Commercial Building Permits”.

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 CITY AND COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO „ PLANNING DEPARTMENT
APPLICATION COMPLETENESS MATRIX AND CONTROL SHEET
WAIVER: This permit application is accepted as complete for purposes of initial filing. The Department may find it necessary to request other information
after further analysis of the application prior to completing its review. Other planning approvals or environmental documentation may be required
for the project to be built. At this time, the following additional application or actions have been identified as necessary.

ADDRESS ____________________________________________________________ BLOCK ________________ LOT(S) ______________________________________

ZONING ____________________ HEIGHT ______________ SETBACK ________ SUD __________________ SSD _________________ HD/CD ________________

LM NO. _____ HT PG _____ CAT _____ ‰ AS ‰ NATL REG ‰ NCU/LCU ‰ NSR ‰ BBN ‰ MISC PMT ‰ PLNG VIOL ‰ DBI COMPLAINT ‰ LTR DETER ‰ OTHER

PRIOR CASES _______________ _______________

DEMOLITION (Form 6)

GRADING (Form 5)
AWNINGS, CANOPIES (Forms 3 & 8)
SIGNS (Forms 4 & 7)

NEW CONSTRUCTION (Forms 1 & 2)

OR ACTIONS ALTERATIONS (Forms 3 & 8)
_______________ _______________

REPAIR WORK (Reroofing included)

NEW GARAGE
TURAL IMPROVEMENTS
BAY WINDOWS, OTHER ARCHITEC-
PROJECTIONS
DORMER(S), PENTHOUSE, OR OTHER
NEW ROOF (Change of profile)

FACADE WORK (New windows/ siding)

CHANGE OF USE OR OCCUPANCY

ADDITIONS
VIOLATION, _______________ _______________
OR NSR NO. / INTERIOR
OTHER EVENT _______________ _______________ HORIZONTAL NEW
EXTENSION FLOOR WORK

LATERAL

REAR

FRONT

REAR (Partial)

TOTAL

FRONT (Partial)
IMPROVEMENTS
EXTERIOR MECHANICAL
IMPROVEMENTS
COMMERCIAL TENANT
LOWER FLOOR ROOMS
HOW TO USE THIS MATRIX

Columns to the right describe potential construction project types.

Highlighted columns represent the application’s scope of work.
Rows describe project-specific required application materials.
Shading in those columns describing your project indicates that
the materials described by that row are required.
Numbers within a cell refer to the matrix notes listed below.

APPLICATION MATERIALS
MATRIX NOTES
DESCRIPTION
SECTION 311 PRE-APPLI-
1. Required for vertical CATION MTG SIGN-IN, RE- 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
GENERAL

additions that add 7 or more SPONSE AND AFFADAVIT

feet to building height or SECTION 311-312 ITEMS –
horizontal additions that add MAP, LABELS, LIST, AND 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 2
more than 10’ to existing AFFIDAVIT
building depth at any level SITE SURVEY (SIGNED BY
2. Required for residential SURVEYOR OR CIVIL EN- 4
buildings in RH and RM GINEER)
districts and for NC districts.
LOCATION OF PROPOSED
3. Required if the proposed WORK WITHIN THE LOT 17
PLOT PLAN

work changes number of

dwellings, use, or includes ADJACENT FRONT WALLS
formula retail. (SHOWING FULL WIDTH
OF ADJACENT LOTS)
4. Required for buildings in
ADJACENT REAR WALLS
Residential districts only.
(SHOWING FULL WIDTH
5. Required when the pro- OF ADJACENT LOTS)
posed work is in an R dis-
trict and increases the FLOOR PLAN(S) OF
number of dwelling units. FLOOR(S) OF WORK
Roof plan will enable de-
termining compliance to FLOOR PLAN(S) OF OTHER
open space requirements. FLOOR(S) 13 13 12
6. Required when the pro-
PLAN(S)

posed work is in the garage ROOF PLAN 13 14 5 5

level and it could reduce the
number of parking spaces. GARAGE (SHOWING EX-
7. Required when the addition ISTING & PROPOSED 7
is at least 20% of the gross PARKING SPACES)
floor area of the existing LANDSCAPING (SHOWING
building and when the pro- STREET TREE PLANTER & 7 7 7 7 7 7 7
posed work eliminates UTILITY LINE LOCATION)
planters and street trees. SIGN, CANOPY OR AWN-
8. Required when work is ING (SHOWING LOCATION
visible from the street. OF EXISTING SIGNS)

9. Required to evaluate link

ELEVATION(S)

between addition and

FRONT 18 16 11 8 10 8 10 10 8 8
building.
10. Profiles of adjacent build- REAR 16
ings that show the full width
and roof line of each
adjacent building must be LATERAL
included.
11. Profiles of adjacent build-
ings may be required at the SECTIONS
OTHER

discretion of the reviewer.

Applications may be
accepted without these
profiles.
DETAILS 19 19 19 19 19 19 19 19
12. Required when the link BUILDINGS ON THE SAME
between the existing use SIDE OF THE STREET 8 8 8
and the proposed work is
weak and unclear.
PHOTOGRAPHS

BUILDINGS ON THE FAC-

13. If proposed work is re- ING SIDE OF THE STREET 8 8
roofing.
14. Required for all building FRONT FACADE OF THE
expansions except decks SUBJECT BUILDING 17 8 8 8 8
and stairs.
REAR FACADE OF THE
15. If mechanical equipment is SUBJECT BUILDING 17 9
located on the roof.
16. Depends on the location of REAR VIEW OF THE ADJA-
the improvements, so as to CENT BUILDINGS
match.
17. When there is more than SECTION 101.1 (PROP M)
one building on the lot. FINDINGS
ADDITIONAL

18. If it affects the roof line. COMMISSION MOTION,

19. Required if the building is a VARIANCE DECISION, OR
Landmark or Architecturally BPA DECISION
Significant or if the type of BUILDING OR FIRE DE-
work requires extensive PARTMENT DETERMI- 20
alterations. NATION
20. Required if the building is
TREE DISCLOSURE FORM
damaged by fire.

✔
L
〇
REQUIRED IN INFORMATION INFORMATION RE-
MATRIX LEGEND REQUIRED A
N
NOT REQUIRED # CIRCUMSTANCES SUBMITTED QUIRED BUT MISSING
K

REMARKS __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ACCEPTED _______________________________ DATE __________________ NOT ACCEPTED _______________________________ DATE __________________

PLANNER PLANNER
ATTACH THIS FORM TO THE BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION
Public Notification for Residential and Neighborhood Commercial
Building Permits
City Planning Code Section 311 and Section 312 require notice to neighbors and property owners for
permits involving new construction, certain changes in use, change in the number of dwelling units, or
building expansions in RH/RM and Neighborhood Commercial Districts. This initiates a 30-day
notification- period for neighborhood review and comment to the Planning Department. This handout
describes what you as a Building Permit applicant must do for this public notification. These new
requirements went into effect March 4, 1996 and January 11, 2001, respectively.

Note that building expansions do not include exterior building additions of a size exempted by Planning
Code Sec. 136(c)1-24 and (c)26 as permitted obstructions, or some Sec. 260(b) exemptions. Not included
are such additions as bay windows, dormers, skylights, decks up to 3 ft. above grade, and such minor
building safety features required by the Dept. of Building Inspection as hand rails, exit stairs and firewalls
greater than 10 ft. in height.

1. WHAT'S NEEDED TO FILE THE BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION?

When filing for your permit application include a Notification Map and a Mailing List and Mailing Labels
for property owners and residents to be notified as shown below. The back of this page lists businesses
that prepare these. While you are encouraged to use a business offering such services, you may also do
this yourself by following the instructions below. You are responsible for the accuracy of these materials.
Erroneous information may require remailing or lead to suspension or revocation of a permit. When you
file for your permit, please sign and submit the attached affidavit stating that the required map, mailing
list and labels have been prepared following these instructions. Include the Contact Person to answer
public questions.

A. Notification Map

Interior Lot! The map must show all lots

within 150 feet of your lot
that are:
1) in your block on the same street,
2) in your block behind you,
3) in the block across the street from you.

Corner Lot : The map must show

all lots within 150 feet of your lot
that are:
1) in your block on the same street,
2) in your block behind you,
3) in the blocks across both streets from you,
4) on the opposite corner.

The map should be at I" = 50 scale and show:

1) Street Names and Property Addresses
2) Assessor's Block and Lot Numbers
3) Number of Dwelling Units per Lot
4) Any Commercial Tenants

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5)Any Vacant Lots labeled with a “V”
6) Any condominium with all Lot Numbers included
Assessor's Blocks/Lots are at the Assessor's Office, City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room
190.

B. Mailing List And Mailing Labels

Mailing List: List the Assessor's Block and Lot Numbers for all lots within the Notification Map with the
Names and Mailing Addresses of all the property owners and the Mailing Address for all residents and
businesses. Include yourself and anyone else you wish notified. Please count the addresses and give the
number.

Submit self-adhering Mailing Labels with this information, one name and address per label. For property
owners, use the names. For residents and businesses, you may use either their name or "Occupant".

Property Owners are those in the latest Citywide Tax Roll, available on microfiche at the Tax Collector's
Office, City Hall, 1 Carlton B. Goodlett, Rm. 190.

For Residents or Businesses you can get the number of dwellings or businesses on a lot from the property
owner or building manager, or by counting the mail boxes, doorbells and any businesses. You may also
use the reverse telephone directory at City libraries, Use addresses shown on the mailbox, doorbell or
reverse telephone directory, including any letter suffixes (134, 134A) or fractions (249, 249 1/2). If a
doorbell or mailbox has a name but no separate street or apartment number, use that name for the mailing
labels. There is usually a Resident anytime the Property Owner in the Citywide Tax Roll has a different
mailing address.

Sample Mailing Labels: (this example would be for an absentee owner of Block 3417, Lot 17 and the tenant living
there add Sec 311 or Sec 312 as appropriate.)

2. WHAT'S NEEDED AFTER YOU HAVE FILED THE PERMIT APPLICATION?

Planning will review your permit application and let you know if changes are needed to meet the
City Planning Code and relevant Residential Design Guidelines for the property. The 30-day
public notification period will not start until the planner finds that the building plans meets the
Code and Guidelines and the following three steps are completed. (Planning cannot approve the
permit application until the 30-day notification period has expired.) Do not initiate any actions
after application submittal until prompted by your planner.

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 a. Posting on the Property.
b. Submitting Photo-Reduced Plans
Planning will mail an oversized notice for you to post
on the property. After you post the notice, sign a
declaration of posting and return to Planning.
For Section 312 notification: Photo-reduce the
building plans with any required changes to 8.5"
by 11" and give to Planning for mailing.

For Section 311 see SECTION 311,

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTIFICATION
INSTRUCTIONS at the end of this document.
c. Mailing Notice. Planning will mail notice to all owners. and occupants
listed using the Notification Map and to nearby
neighborhood organizations with:
• information on your project and how to contact you
or your agent
• the procedure for public review and potential
appeals
• and the reduced plans

Note: A time and materials fee (refer to the Department’s fee schedule) plus paper and postage will be
assessed for mailing the notice, payable when submitting the affidavit of posting and reduced plans.

3. WHO PREPARES NOTIFICATION MAPS, MAILING LISTS AND LABELS?

The businesses below have indicated they provide these professional services. Their listing does not
constitute an endorsement. Other professionals can also perform this work and will be added to our list
upon request. You may also do this yourself as described above.

3288 21st St. #49

Javier E. Solorzano San Francisco, Ca 94110, (415) 724-5240
Javier131064@yahoo.com
3515 Santiago St., SF CA 94116, (415) 759-
Build CADD
8710
584 Castro St. #840, SF CA 94114, (415) 391-
Carol Cosseboom, Maps & Mailings
9900
1221 Harrison Street #18, SF CA 94103, (415)
Radius Services
391-4775, radiusservices@aol.com

Notice This (650) 814-6750

Small Buildings (415) 285-8826

Harvey Wong & Associates
543 38th Ave., SF CA 94121 (415) 752-5847
Architecture and Planning
676 Lyon St., SF, CA 94117 (415) 810-3703
Jerry Brown Designs
jbdsgn@comcast.net
3150 18th St. #307, SF CA 94110 , (415)626-
Notification SF 2272
www.notificationsf.com
kdea@notificationsf.com

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-11-
-12-
Affidavit of Preparation of Notification Map,
Mailing List and Mailing Labels for Public
Notification for Residential Building Permits

I, _____________________________________, do hereby declare as follows:

(print name)

1. I have prepared the Notification Map, Mailing List and Mailing Labels for Public Notification for
Residential Building Permits in accordance with Planning Department requirements and instructions for
implementing City Planning Code Section 311/312.

2. 1 understand that I am responsible for the accuracy of this information, and that erroneous information
may require remailing or lead to suspension or revocation of the permit.

3. I have prepared these materials in good faith and to the best of my ability.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and
correct.

EXECUTED ON THIS DAY, ____________________, 20__ IN SAN FRANCISCO

________________________
Signature

________________________
Name (type or print)

________________________
Relationship to Project, e.g., Owner, Agent
(if Agent, give business name and profession)

Project Address
____________________

n:\applicat\311_312fnl.doc

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SEC. 311. RESIDENTIAL PERMIT REVIEW PROCEDURES FOR RH AND RM
DISTRICTS. (Planning Code Text)

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to establish procedures for reviewing building permit
applications for lots in R Districts in order to determine compatibility of the proposal with the
neighborhood and for providing notice to property owners and residents neighboring the site of the
proposed project and to interested neighborhood organizations, so that concerns about a project may
be identified and resolved during the review of the permit.

(b) Applicability. Except as indicated herein, all building permit applications for demolition and/or
new construction, and/or alteration of residential buildings in RH and RM districts shall be subject to
the notification and review procedures required by this Section. Subsection 311(e) regarding
demolition permits and approval of replacement structures shall apply to all R Districts. For the
purposes of this Section, an alteration shall be defined as any change in use or change in the number
of dwelling units of a residential building, removal of more than 75 percent of a residential building's
existing interior wall framing or the removal of more than 75 percent of the area of the existing
framing, or an increase to the exterior dimensions of a residential building except those features
listed in Section 136(c)(1) through 136(c)(24) and 136(c)(26).

(c) Building Permit Application Review for Compliance and Notification. Upon acceptance of any
application subject to this Section, the Planning Department shall review the proposed project for
compliance with the Planning Code and any applicable design guidelines approved by the Planning
Commission. Applications determined not to be in compliance with the standards of Articles 1.2, 1.5,
2 and 2.5 of the Planning Code, Residential Design Guidelines, including design guidelines for
specific areas adopted by the Planning Commission, or with any applicable conditions of previous
approvals regarding the project, shall be held until either the application is determined to be in
compliance, is disapproved or a recommendation for cancellation is sent to the Department of
Building Inspection.

(1) Residential Design Guidelines. The construction of new residential buildings and alteration of
existing residential buildings in R Districts shall be consistent with the design policies and guidelines
of the General Plan and with the "Residential Design Guidelines" as adopted and periodically
amended for specific areas or conditions by the City Planning Commission. The Director of Planning
may require modifications to the exterior of a proposed new residential building or proposed
alteration of an existing residential building in order to bring it into conformity with the "Residential
Design Guidelines" and with the General Plan. These modifications may include, but are not limited
to, changes in siting, building envelope, scale texture and detailing, openings, and landscaping.

(2) Notification. Upon determination that an application is in compliance with the development
standards of the Planning Code, the Planning Department shall cause a notice to be posted on the site
pursuant to rules established by the Zoning Administrator and shall cause a written notice describing
the proposed project to be sent in the manner described below. This notice shall be in addition to any
notices required by the Building

Code and shall have a format and content determined by the Zoning Administrator. It shall include a
description of the proposal compared to any existing improvements on the site with dimensions of
the basic features, elevations and site plan of the proposed project including the position of any
adjacent buildings, exterior dimensions and finishes, and a graphic reference scale. The notice shall
describe the project review process and shall set forth the mailing date of the notice and the
expiration date of the notification period.

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Written notice shall be mailed to the notification group which shall include the project sponsor,
relevant neighborhood organizations as described in Subparagraph 311(c)(2)(C) below, all
individuals having made a written request for notification for a specific parcel or parcels pursuant to
Planning Code Section 351 and all owners and, to the extent practical, occupants, of properties in the
notification area.

(A) The notification area shall be all properties within 150 feet of the subject lot in the same
Assessor's Block and on the block face across from the subject lot. When the subject lot is a corner
lot, the notification area shall further include all property on both block faces across from the subject
lot, and the corner property diagonally across the street.

(B) The latest City-wide Assessor's roll for names and addresses of owners shall be used for said
notice.

(C) The Planning Department shall maintain a list, available for public review, of neighborhood
organizations which have indicated an interest in specific properties or areas. The organizations
having indicated an interest in the subject lot or its area shall be included in the notification group for
the proposed project.

(3) Notification Period. All building permit applications shall be held for a period of 30 calendar
days from the date of the mailed notice to allow review by residents and owners of neighboring
properties and by neighborhood groups.

(4) Elimination of Duplicate Notice. The notice provisions of this Section may be waived by the
Zoning Administrator for building permit applications for projects that have been, or before approval
will be, the subject of a duly noticed public hearing before the Planning Commission or Zoning
Administrator, provided that the nature of work for which the building permit application is required
is both substantially included in the hearing notice and is the subject of the hearing.

(5) Notification Package. The notification package for a project subject to notice under this Section
311 shall include:

(A) A description of the proposal compared to any existing improvements on the site with
dimensions of the basic features, elevations and site plan of the proposed project including exterior
dimensions and finishes, and a graphic reference scale.
(B) Information stating whether the proposed project includes horizontal, vertical, or both horizontal
and vertical additions.
(C) Information showing the relationship of the project to adjacent properties, including the position
and height of any adjacent building and location of windows facing the subject property.
(D) 11 by 17 drawings at a measurable scale with all dimensions legible that shows (i) both existing
and proposed floor plans, (ii) specific dimensional changes to the building, including parapets,
penthouses, and other proposed building extensions and (iii) the location and amount of removal of
exterior walls.
(E) Floor plans where there is a new building, building expansion, or change in the floor plans of an
existing building.
(F) The name and telephone number of the project planner at the Planning Department assigned to
review the application.
(G) A description of the project review process, information on how to obtain additional information
about the project, and information about the recipient's rights to request additional information, to

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request discretionary review by the Planning Commission, and to appeal to other boards or
commissions.
(d) Requests for Planning Commission Review. A request for the Planning Commission to exercise
its discretionary review powers over a specific building permit application shall be considered by the
Planning Commission if received by the Planning Department no later than

5:00 p.m. of the last day of the notification period as described under Subsection (c)(3) above,
subject to guidelines adopted by the Planning Commission.
The project sponsor of a building permit application may request discretionary review by the
Planning Commission to resolve conflicts between the Director of Planning and the project sponsor
concerning requested modifications to comply with the Residential Design Guidelines.

(1) Scheduling of Hearing. The Zoning Administrator shall set a time for hearing requests for
discretionary review by the Planning Commission within a reasonable period.

(2) Notice. Mailed notice of the discretionary review hearing by the Planning Commission shall be
given not less than 10 days prior to the date of the hearing to the notification group as described in
Paragraph 311(c)(2) above. Posted notice of the hearing shall be made as provided under Planning
Code Section 306.8.

(e) Demolition of Dwellings, Approval of Replacement Structure Required. Unless the building is
determined to pose a serious and imminent hazard as defined in the Building Code an application
authorizing demolition in any R District of an historic or architecturally important building or of a
dwelling shall not be approved and issued until the City has granted final approval of a building
permit for construction of the replacement building. A building permit is finally approved if the
Board of Appeals has taken final action for approval on an appeal of the issuance or denial of the
permit or if the permit has been issued and the time for filing an appeal with the Board has lapsed
with no appeal filed.
(1) The demolition of any building whether or not historically and architecturally important may be
approved administratively where the Director of the Department of
Building Inspection or the Chief of the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety determines, after
consultation with the Zoning Administrator, that an imminent safety hazard exists, and the Director
of the Department of Building Inspection determines that demolition or extensive alteration of the
structure is the only feasible means to secure the public safety.
(Added by Ord. 46-96, App. 2/2/96; amended by Ord. 279-00, File No. 001423, App. 12/15/2000;
Ord. 234-05, File No. 050456, App. 9/30/2005)

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SEC. 312. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL PERMIT REVIEW PROCEDURES FOR ALL
NC DISTRICTS. (Planning Code Text)

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to establish procedures for reviewing building permit
applications for lots in NC Districts in order to determine compatibility of the proposal with the
neighborhood and for providing notice to property owners, occupants and residents neighboring the site
of the proposed project and to interested neighborhood organizations, so that concerns about a project
may be identified and resolved during the review of the permit.

(b) Applicability. Except as indicated herein, all building permit applications for demolition, new
construction, changes in use to a formula retail use as defined in section 703.3 of this Code or alterations
which expand the exterior dimensions of a building shall be subject to the notification and review
procedures required by subsection 312(d). Subsection 312(f) regarding demolition permits and approval
of replacement structures shall apply to all NC Districts. For the purposes of this Section, addition to a
building of the features listed in Section 136(c)(1) through 136(c)(24) and 136(c)(26) shall not be subject
to notification under this Section.

(c) Changes of Use. All building permit applications for a change of use to a bar, as defined in section
790.22, a liquor store, as defined in section 790.55, a walkup facility, as defined in section 790.140,
other large institutions, as defined in section 790.50, other small institutions, as defined in section
790.51, a full-service restaurant, as defined in section 790.92, a large fast food restaurant, as defined
in section 790.90, a small self-service restaurant, as defined in section 790.91, a massage
establishment, as defined in section 790.60, an outdoor activity, as defined in section 790.70, or an
adult or other entertainment use, as defined in sections 790.36 and 790.38, shall be subject to the
provisions of subsection 312(d). (emphasis added)

(d) Building Permit Application Review for Compliance and Notification. Upon acceptance of any
application subject to this Section, the Planning Department shall review the proposed project for
compliance with the Planning Code and any applicable design guidelines approved by the Planning
Commission. Applications determined not to be in compliance with the standards of Articles 1.2, 1.5, 2
and 2.5 of the Planning Code, including design guidelines for specific areas adopted by the Planning
Commission, or with any applicable conditions of previous approvals regarding the project, shall be held
until either the application is determined to be in compliance, is disapproved or a recommendation for
cancellation is sent to the Department of Building Inspection.

(1) Neighborhood Commercial Design Guidelines. The construction of new buildings and alteration of
existing buildings in NC Districts shall be consistent with the design policies and guidelines of the
General Plan as adopted and periodically amended for specific areas or conditions by the Planning
Commission. The Director of Planning may require modifications to the exterior of a proposed new
building or proposed alteration of an existing building in order to bring it into conformity with the
General Plan. These modifications may include, but are not limited to, changes in siting, building
envelope, scale texture and detailing, openings, and landscaping.

(2) Notification. Upon determination that an application is in compliance with the development
standards of the Planning Code, the Planning Department shall cause a notice to be posted on the site
pursuant to rules established by the Zoning Administrator and shall cause a written notice describing the
proposed project to be sent in the manner described below. This notice shall be in addition to any notices
required by the Building Code and shall have a format and content determined by the Zoning
Administrator. It shall include a description of the proposal compared to any existing improvements on
the site with dimensions of the basic features, elevations and site plan of the proposed project including
the position of any adjacent buildings, exterior dimensions and finishes, a graphic reference scale,
existing and proposed uses and commercial or institutional business name, if known. The notice shall

-17-
describe the project review process and shall set forth the mailing date of the notice and the expiration
date of the notification period.
Written notice shall be mailed to the notification group which shall include the project sponsor,
relevant neighborhood organizations as described in Subparagraph 312(d)(2)(C) below, all individuals
having made a written request for notification for a specific parcel or parcels pursuant to Planning Code
Section 351 and all owners and, to the extent practical, occupants, of properties in the notification area.

(A) The notification area shall be all properties within 150 feet of the subject lot in the same Assessor's
Block and on the block face across from the subject lot. When the subject lot is a corner lot, the
notification area shall further include all property on both block faces across from the subject lot, and the
corner property diagonally across the street.

(B) The latest City-wide Assessor's roll for names and addresses of owners shall be used for said notice.

(C) The Planning Department shall maintain a list, updated every six months with current contact
information, available for public review, and kept at the Planning Department's Planning Information
Counter, and reception desk, as well as the Department of Building Inspection's Building Permit Counter,
of neighborhood organizations which have indicated an interest in specific properties or areas. The
organizations having indicated an interest in the subject lot or its area shall be included in the notification
group for the proposed project. Notice to these groups shall be verified by a declaration of mailing signed
under penalty of perjury. In the event that such an organization is not included in the notification group
for a proposed project as required under this subsection, the proposed project must be re-noticed.

(3) Notification Period. All building permit applications shall be held for a period of 30 calendar days
from the date of the mailed notice to allow review by residents, occupants, owners of neighboring
properties and by neighborhood groups.

(4) Elimination of Duplicate Notice. The notice provisions of this Section may be waived by the
Zoning Administrator for building permit applications for projects that have been, or before approval will
be, the subject of a duly noticed public hearing before the Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator,
provided that the nature of work for which the building permit application is required is both substantially
included in the hearing notice and is the subject of the hearing.

(e) Requests for Planning Commission Review. A request for the Planning Commission to exercise its
discretionary review powers over a specific building permit application shall be considered by the
Planning Commission if received by the Planning Department no later than 5:00 p.m. of the last day of
the notification period as described under Subsection (d)(3) above, subject to guidelines adopted by the
Planning Commission.

The project sponsor of a building permit application may request discretionary review by the Planning
Commission to resolve conflicts between the Director of Planning and the project sponsor concerning
requested modifications to comply with relevant design guidelines of the General Plan.

(1) Scheduling of Hearing. The Zoning Administrator shall set a time for hearing requests for
discretionary review by the Planning Commission within a reasonable period.

(2) Notice. Mailed notice of the discretionary review hearing by the Planning Commission shall be given
not less than 10 days prior to the date of the hearing to the notification group as described in Paragraph
312(d)(2) above. Posted notice of the hearing shall be made as provided under Planning Code Section
306.8.

(f) Demolition of Dwellings, Approval of Replacement Structure Required. Unless the building is

-18-
determined to pose a serious and imminent hazard as defined in the Building Code an application
authorizing demolition in any NC District of an historic or architecturally important building or of a
dwelling shall not be approved and issued until the City has granted final approval of a building permit
for construction of the replacement building. A building permit is finally approved if the Board of
Appeals has taken final action for approval on an appeal of the issuance or denial of the permit or if the
permit has been issued and the time for filing an appeal with the Board has lapsed with no appeal filed.

(1) The demolition of any building whether or not historically and architecturally important may be
approved administratively where the Director of the Department of Building Inspection or the Chief of
the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety determines, after consultation with the Zoning
Administrator, that an imminent safety hazard exists, and the Director of the Department of Building
Inspection determines that demolition or extensive alteration of the structure is the only feasible means to
secure the public safety. (Added by Ord. 279-00, File No. 001423, App. 12/15/2000; amended by Ord.
209-03, File No. 030351, App. 6/6/2003; Ord. 258-04, File No. 040365, App. 10/28/2004)

-19-
 SECTION 311 - NEIGHBORHOOD NOTIFICATION
INSTRUCTIONS

Planning Code Section 311 requires the Planning Department to mail a 30-day notice to
neighbors (occupants and/or owners of properties within 150 feet of the project site) for all
building permit applications for demolition, new construction, expansion of residential buildings
or changes of use in Residential House (RH) and Residential Mixed (RM) zoning districts. The
Section 311 notice is mailed after the Department has determined that the application complies
with minimum development standards of the Planning Code and is consistent with the
Residential Design Guidelines.

As of May 14, 2007 there are two options you can choose from for processing the Section 311
Notification:

Option No. 1 Service through Planning with limited assistance from staff.
The applicant provides mailing labels, 11” x 17” reduced plans, folded, inserted into
stamped, addressed self-adhesive envelopes, and pays a fee for Planning Department
staff to process the mailing.

a) A check with the fee amount to be determined by staff based on the number of
envelopes required to be sent out made payable to the Planning Department.
The fee amount is provided on the cover letter. The check should be payable
to “Planning Department/Section 311” and should indicate the address of
the property where the work will be done, in the lower left hand corner of the
check (Memo line). The fee amount is provided on the cover letter.
b) Unsealed, postage stamped, legal-sized (10” by 13”) self-adhesive envelopes
with photo-reduced 11” by 17” site, elevation and floor plans, folded and
enclosed in the envelopes. Please note that the Post Office will charge an
additional $0.17 for each envelope with a clasp since it will jam
machinery and is considered non-machinable. $1.14 Postage must be
placed on each unsealed envelope with no more than 4 sheets of photo-
reduced plans. For five or more sheets of photo-reduced plans, please add 24
cents to the $1.14 postage for each additional page of photo-reduced plans.
c) One additional set of photo-reduced 11” by 17” site, elevation and floor plans
for the Department’s record. This set of plans will remain in the Planning
Department for public review.

The Section 311 notice will be mailed to you and to all names on the notification list,
after the Planning Department receives the required materials and check. Staff will mail
the notification within one week of the receipt of the requested materials.

-20-
 Option No. 2 Service through Repromail
The applicant provides the mailing list on a disk or CD Rom and pays fee for Repromail
to reproduce and mail the required materials.

a) A check, with the fee amount to be determined by staff, based on the number
of envelopes required to be sent out made payable to the Planning
Department. The fee amount is provided on the cover letter. The check should
be payable to “Planning Department/Section 311” and should indicate the
address of the property where the work will be done, in the lower left hand
corner of the check (Memo line). The fee amount is provided on the cover
letter.

b) An Excel file of the mailing lists on Disk or CD Rom.

c) Site, Elevation and Floor plans on Disk CD Rom in pdf format, or a Hardcopy of
the photo reduced plans.

d) One additional set of photo-reduced 11” by 17” site, elevation and floor plans
for the Department’s record. This set of plans will remain in the Planning
Department for public review.

The Section 311 notice will be mailed to you and to all names on the notification list
within three days if you provide us with the required materials and check before 11:00
A.M. on the received date, or within four days if you provide the required materials and
check after 11:00 A.M.
 
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE SECTION 311 NOTIFICATION
MATERIALS [(Note: Option No. 2 does not require Preparation of Envelopes)]

A. REDUCTION OF PLANS

Planning Code Section 311 requires the Planning Department to notify neighbors once
it is determined that the application complies with the minimum development standards
of the Planning Code. The notice must describe the proposed project compared to the
existing site improvements with the dimensions of the basic features. In addition, the
following dimensioned graphic material with a referenced scale must be provided: a
site/plot plan, elevations and floor plans.

You are responsible for providing the Planning Department with photo-reduced plans.
To do this, you may choose to take your full-scale site/plot plan, elevations, and floor
plans to a blue print service and request the plans be reduced to fit on three to four,
doubled-sided, 11” by 17" sheets of paper or, do the reductions yourself, at a copy
center.

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 The site/plot plan, elevations, and floor plans must contain the following:

• The Site/Plot Plan must show the proposed work in relation to any existing building(s)
on the lot and building(s) on adjacent properties. The Site/Plot Plan should also show
the full width and depth of the adjacent lots and the position of all buildings on the lots
with dimensions and graphic reference scale. All dimensions must be provided.

• The Elevation must show the front, rear and side elevations, particularly when
the proposed work will be visible from outside your property. In addition, show the
outline and height of adjacent buildings in relation to the project on all the elevations and
the location of windows facing the subject property. All dimensions must be legible. The
elevations should also include a graphic reference scale.

• The Floor Plans must show the existing and proposed floor plans of all the floors
with all the rooms on the floor plans labeled.

Remember to submit one additional set of photo-reduced plans for the Department’s
records. The photo-reduced plans will be mailed to your neighbors. All plans on the 11”
by 17” paper must be large enough to be legible.

Photo-reduced plans that are not legible or do not contain clearly written dimensions,
finish materials and details will be sent back to the permit applicant to redo, thus
delaying the project.

B. PREPARATION OF ENVELOPES

Each set of photo-reduced plans should be folded and inserted into a postage stamped,
unsealed 10” by 13” legal-sized, self-adhesive manila envelopes. Please note that the
Post Office will charge an additional $0.17 for each envelope with a clasp since it
will jam machinery and is considered non-machinable. Please remember to leave
the envelopes unsealed and to attach $1.14 postage to the front of each of the
unsealed envelopes containing 4 or fewer 11” by 17” plans. If there are 5 or more
11” by 17” plans, please add 24 cents in postage to the $1.14 postage for each
additional page.

The project planner will spot check the plans in the unsealed envelopes for clarity,
accuracy and completeness. The 311 technician will insert a trilingual and Section
311 notice with start and expiration dates, into the unsealed envelope and mail the
packets to the neighbors.

C. SITE POSTING

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Planning Code Section 311 requires The Planning Department to have an Oversized
Notice (11” X 17” poster) posted on the project site once an application is determined
to comply with minimum development standards of the Planning Code. An official 30-
day Neighborhood Notification Notice (Section 311) will be mailed to you after you
submit the required fee and reduced plans. Post the enclosed notice (poster) as soon
as you receive the official 30-day Neighborhood Notification (Section 311) notice
according to the instructions below. Note expiration date on the 30-day notice and
write expiration date on the bottom right hand corner of the 11" X 17" poster that is
enclosed. The poster must be posted on site until the expiration date.

1. PLACEMENT OF THE NOTICE (poster):

a. If a window of the building or the building façade is within 6 feet of

the property line, the Notice (poster) must be posted inside the
window or on the building façade if the window is not large
enough.

(1) The bottom of the poster must be no lower than 3 feet above
grade and the top of the poster no higher than 6 feet above grade.

(2) The face of the poster must be parallel to the street and the entire
poster and lettering must be clearly visible from a public street,
alley or sidewalk.

(3) If the poster is posted on the building façade, it must be covered

with plastic or transparent materials to protect it from rain.

(4) The pathway to the sign must be unobstructed so that interested

parties can approach closer and read the poster.

(5) The poster shall not be posted on a commonly used door that
might be left open so that the sign will be obscured from public
view.

b. If the building is more than 6 feet from the property line, the poster
must be mounted on a display board at the property line.

• The top of the poster must be between 5 and 6 feet above grade.

• The face of the poster must be parallel to the street and the entire
poster and lettering must be clearly visible from a public street,
alley or sidewalk.

• The poster must be covered with plastic or transparent materials

to protect it from rain.

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 c. If the project site is a corner property or a through lot, the Notice
must be posted on each street frontage following the instructions
above.

Please Note:

• If a poster is removed or destroyed during the required posting period,

the applicant must immediately obtain another poster from the
Planning Department and repost the sign until the expiration date. If
there is a substantial delay in reposting, the Zoning Administrator may
require the posting period to be extended beyond the expiration date.

D. DOCUMENTATION OF POSTING

The poster must be posted on site until the expiration date. The applicant must submit
the enclosed Declaration of Posting, signed under penalty of perjury, which declares that the
applicant has completed the posting of the Notice as required by Section 311. The
Declaration of Posting must be returned to the Department immediately after the
expiration date.

Questions about the Notice of Posting may be directed to the planner listed on the
311 Notice.

The applicant must provide the requested items within thirty (30) days from the date of
the cover letter. The application will be sent back to the Department of Building Inspection for
cancellation or administrative proceedings if the applicant does not comply with this notice.

The above items can be submitted in person to the 4th floor receptionist, 1650 Mission Street
anytime between: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also send the above items to the Planning
Department, 1650 Mission Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94103. ATTENTION:
Project Planner (Name of Planner on Cover Letter)

Submit the Declaration of Posting immediately after the expiration date has passed. The
Declaration of Posting can be sent to the Department or submitted in person to the above
address.

REVISED 5/14/07

-24-
 DECLARATION OF POSTING
SECTION 311 ONLY
I, , do hereby declare as follows:
Name (Print or Typed)
1. On , 20__, I posted a public notice on
the project site (one on each frontage for through and corner lots) indicating my
intention to secure a building permit and describing the extent of the proposed work for
the property located at________________________________________ The public
notice form was furnished to me by the Planning Department.

2. After posting the aforementioned notice, I determined that the required notice(s)
was posted on the project site between ___________________, and
_____________________, 20__.

I declare under the penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing is true and correct.

EXECUTED ON _____________________, 20__, IN SAN FRANCISCO.

Signature

Name (Print or Type)

Relationship to Project: e.g.

Owner, Attorney, Architect, etc.
Professional Service Provided (i.e.)

BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION NUMBER: ______________________

PROJECT ADDRESS: _________________________________________

Submit completed Declaration of Posting immediately to the Planning Department after

expiration date. 
 

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 SECTION 312 - NEIGHBORHOOD NOTIFICATION
INSTRUCTIONS

Planning Code Section 312 requires the Planning Department to send a 30-day mail notice to
neighbors (occupants and/or owners of properties within 150 feet of the project site). The notice
is mailed after the Department has determined that the application complies with minimum
development standards of the Planning Code. Section 312 applies to all building permit
applications within Neighborhood Commercial Districts, which propose demolition, new
construction, or alterations, which expands the exterior dimensions of a building, and all permits
for changes of use (change of business type). The Planning Department has reviewed your
permit application and determined that it requires Section 312 notification.

As of May 14, 2007 there are two options you can choose from for processing the Section 312
Notification:

Option No. 1 Service through Planning

The applicant provides mailing labels, 8 1/2” x 11” reduced plans and pays a fee for
Planning Department staff to process the mailing.

a) A check with the fee amount to be determined by staff based on the number of
envelopes required to be sent out made payable to the Planning Department.
The fee amount is provided on the cover letter. The check should be payable to
“Planning Department/Section 312” and should indicate the address of the
property where the work will be done, in the lower left hand corner of the check
(Memo line). The fee amount is provided on the cover letter.

b) Photo-reduced site and elevation plans.

The Section 312 notice will be mailed to you and to all names on the notification list, after
the Planning Department receives the required materials and check. Staff will mail the
notification within one week of the receipt of the requested materials.

Option No. 2 Service through Repromail

The applicant provides the mailing list on a disk or CD Rom and pays fee for Repromail to
reproduce and mail the required materials.

a) A check, with the fee amount to be determined by staff, based on the number
of envelopes required to be sent out made payable to the Planning
Department. The fee amount is provided on the cover letter. The check should
be payable to “Planning Department/Section 312” and should indicate the
address of the property where the work will be done, in the lower left hand

-26-
 corner of the check (Memo line). The fee amount is provided on the cover
letter.

b) An Excel file of the mailing lists on Disk or CD Rom.

c) Site and Elevation plans on Disk or CD Rom in pdf format, or a Hardcopy of

the photo reduced plans.

d) One additional set of 8 1/2” by 11” Site and Elevation plans for the
Department’s record. This set of plans will remain in the Planning Department
for public review.

The Section 312 notice will be mailed to you and to all names on the notification list within
two days if you provide us with the required materials and check by 11:00 A.M. on the
received date, or within three days if you provide the required materials and check after
11:00 A.M.
 
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE SECTION 312 NOTIFICATION
MATERIALS.

A. REDUCTION OF PLANS

Planning Code Section 312 requires the Planning Department to notify neighbors once
it is determined that the application complies with the minimum development standards
of the Planning Code. The notice must describe the proposed project compared to the
existing site improvements with the dimensions of the basic features. In addition, the
following dimensioned graphic material with a referenced scale must be provided: a
site/plot plan, and elevation plans.

You are responsible for providing the Planning Department with photo-reduced plans.
To do this, you may choose to take your full-scale site/plot plan and elevation plans to a
blue print service and request the plans be reduced to fit on no more than two, doubled-
sided, 8 ½ “ x 11” sheets of paper or, do the reductions yourself, at a copy center.

The site/plot plan and elevations must contain the following:

• The Site/Plot Plan must show the proposed work in relation to any existing
building(s) on the lot and building(s) on adjacent properties. The Site/Plot Plan
should also show the full width and depth of the adjacent lots and the position of all
buildings on the lots with dimensions and graphic reference scale. All dimensions
must be provided.

• The Elevations must show the front, rear and side elevations, particularly when the
proposed work will be visible from outside your property. In addition, show the
outline and height of adjacent buildings in relation to the project on all the elevations
and the location of windows facing the subject property. All dimensions must be
legible. The elevations should also include a graphic reference scale.

-27-
 Remember to submit one additional set of photo-reduced plans for the
Department’s records. The photo-reduced plans will be mailed to your neighbors. All
plans on the 8 1/2'” by 11” paper must be large enough to be legible.

Photo-reduced plans that are not legible or do not contain clearly written
dimensions, finish materials and details will be sent back to the permit applicant
to redo, thus delaying the project.

B. SITE POSTING

Planning Code Section 312 requires The Planning Department to have an Oversized
Notice (11” X 17” poster) posted on the project site once an application is determined to
comply with minimum development standards of the Planning Code. An official 30-day
Neighborhood Notification Notice (Section 312) will be mailed to you after you submit the
required fee and reduced plans. Post the enclosed notice (poster) as soon as you
receive the official 30-day Neighborhood Notification (Section 312) notice
according to the instructions below. Note expiration date on the 30-day notice and
write expiration date on the bottom right hand corner of the 11" X 17" poster that is
enclosed. The poster must be posted on site until the expiration date.

1. PLACEMENT OF THE NOTICE (poster):

a. If a window of the building or the building façade is within 6 feet of

the property line, the Notice (poster) must be posted inside the
window or on the building façade if the window is not large enough.

(1) The bottom of the poster must be no lower than 3 feet above grade
and the top of the poster no higher than 6 feet above grade.

(2) The face of the poster must be parallel to the street and the entire
poster and lettering must be clearly visible from a public street, alley
or sidewalk.

(3) If the poster is posted on the building façade, it must be covered with
plastic or transparent materials to protect it from rain.
(4) The pathway to the sign must be unobstructed so that interested
parties can approach closer and read the poster.
(5) The poster shall not be posted on a commonly used door that might
be left open so that the sign will be obscured from public view.
b. If the building is more than 6 feet from the property line, the poster
must be mounted on a display board at the property line.

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 • The top of the poster must be between 5 and 6 feet above grade.
• The face of the poster must be parallel to the street and the entire
poster and lettering must be clearly visible from a public street,
alley or sidewalk.
• The poster must be covered with plastic or transparent materials
to protect it from rain.

c. If the project site is a corner property or a through lot, the Notice

must be posted on each street frontage following the instructions
above.
Please Note:
• If a poster is removed or destroyed during the required posting period,
the applicant must immediately obtain another poster from the
Planning Department and repost the sign until the expiration date. If
there is a substantial delay in reposting, the Zoning Administrator may
require the posting period to be extended beyond the expiration date.

D. DOCUMENTATION OF POSTING
The poster must be posted on site until the expiration date. The applicant must submit
the enclosed Declaration of Posting, signed under penalty of perjury, which declares that
the applicant has completed the posting of the Notice as required by Section 312. The
Declaration of Posting must be returned to the Department immediately after the
expiration date.

Questions about the Notice of Posting may be directed to the planner listed on the
312 Notice.

The applicant must provide the requested items within thirty (30) days from the date of
the cover letter. The application will be sent back to the Department of Building Inspection for
cancellation or administrative proceedings if the applicant does not comply with this notice.

The above items can be submitted in person to the 4th floor receptionist, 1650 Mission Street
anytime between: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also send the above items to the Planning
Department, 1650 Mission Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94103. ATTENTION:
Project Planner (Name of Planner on Cover Letter)

Submit the Declaration of Posting immediately after the expiration date has passed. The
Declaration of Posting can be sent to the Department or submitted in person to the above
address.

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 DECLARATION OF POSTING
SECTION 312 ONLY
I, , do hereby declare as follows:
Name (Print or Typed)

1. On , 20__, I posted a public notice on the

project site (one on each frontage for through and corner lots) indicating my intention to
secure a building permit and describing the extent of the proposed work for the property
located at ___________________________________________. The public notice
form was furnished to me by the Planning Department.

2. After posting the aforementioned notice, I determined that the required notice(s) was
posted on the project site between ________________, and _____________________,
20__.

I declare under the penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing is true and correct.

EXECUTED ON THIS DAY, _________________________20__ IN SAN FRANCISCO.

_________________________
Signature
_________________________
Name (Print or Typed)

Relationship to Project: e.g.

Owner, Attorney, Architect, etc.
Professional Service Provided (i.e.)

BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION NUMBER: ______________________

PROJECT ADDRESS: _________________________________________

Submit completed Declaration of Posting immediately to the Planning Department after 
expiration date.