Transylvania planning commission hears appeal on Jefferson building code violations

San Francisco's Planning Commission convened on July 9, 2025, to address a contentious building permit issue that has lingered since 2009. The meeting focused on a proposed one-hour rated fire protection wall for a three-story, two-unit building at 1935 Jefferson Street, aimed at resolving a long-standing violation related to a deck and stairway that were constructed without adhering to approved plans.

Laura Strazzo, representing the appellant and neighboring property owner, expressed concerns about the proposed solution, which she described as a "Band-Aid approach." Strazzo highlighted that the current plans do not honor an earlier agreement between neighbors regarding the setback of the stairs and landing, which were originally intended to be set back five feet from the property line. Instead, the existing construction places the landing right at the property line, raising significant fire safety issues.

Ambrose Wong, a consultant for the appellant, elaborated on the code violations associated with the current construction. He pointed out that the proposed plans do not accurately reflect the existing conditions and fail to meet the required fire separation distances mandated for R3 zoning. The current proposal allows for a separation of only one foot seven inches from the property line, which does not comply with the minimum two-foot requirement.

Strazzo emphasized that her client is willing to contribute to the costs of rectifying the situation, advocating for a solution that respects the original agreements and enhances safety for all parties involved. The commission's decision on this matter will have significant implications for fire safety standards and neighborly relations in the area, as they weigh the need for compliance against the realities of existing construction.

As the commission deliberates, the outcome will not only determine the future of the building at 1935 Jefferson but also set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in San Francisco moving forward.