The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on an ordinance aimed at streamlining the building permit process for small businesses undergoing changes in use. The ordinance, sponsored by Mayor Bridal, proposes to amend the building code to exempt certain businesses from the requirement of submitting professionally prepared architectural drawings when changing use designations, provided there is no increase in occupant load or occupancy classification and no construction is involved.

The meeting began with a presentation from Katie Tang, the Director of the Office of Small Business, who outlined the goals of the legislation. The primary aim is to reduce barriers for small businesses seeking to navigate the city's permitting process more efficiently. By removing the costly requirement for architectural plans in specific scenarios, the ordinance seeks to save businesses both time and money.

Tang highlighted that the legislation codifies a pilot program that has already benefited approximately a dozen businesses. A common example discussed was a limited restaurant transitioning to a full restaurant by adding a liquor license without any construction. Previously, such businesses faced significant costs and delays due to the requirement for architectural plans, which the new ordinance aims to alleviate.

During the discussion, a supervisor raised concerns about existing building code violations that businesses may face when changing use. It was clarified that while the new ordinance simplifies the process for some, businesses must still address any existing violations before proceeding with a new use. The supervisor noted the challenges faced by a specific business transitioning from a billiards parlor to a childcare facility, emphasizing the need for a more accessible permitting process to encourage the revitalization of older storefronts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore ways to enhance the permitting process for small businesses, particularly those in need of support to adapt to changing community needs. The ordinance is set for potential consideration by the Board of Supervisors in the upcoming meeting on October 1, 2024.