Why This Matters
Right now, entrepreneurs who want to open coffee shops, expand their markets, or start new businesses in North Beach face byzantine regulations that make it nearly impossible to succeed. Supervisor Danny Sauter has introduced legislation to fix these outdated rules.
What the Legislation Does
The reforms consolidate overlapping commercial districts and harmonize regulations with the rest of the city, repeal rules that prevent small businesses from expanding into adjacent storefronts, and ensure that businesses following the rules can open without requiring conversations or special deals with City Hall.
Supervisor Sauter's reforms would:
- Eliminate conflicting rules by consolidating overlapping commercial districts
- Allow growth by permitting storefront mergers so successful businesses can expand
- Embrace change by eliminating "like-for-like" restrictions that keep vacant spaces empty
- Harmonize regulations with the rest of San Francisco
- Open your business without special permission, just follow simple rules
Why We Need Your Voice
This legislation aligns with Mayor Lurie's PermitSF initiative to streamline business permits citywide. But neighborhood groups opposing change have loud voices at City Hall. We need to show supervisors that residents want:
Thriving local businesses, not empty storefronts- Simple rules that entrepreneurs can follow
- A vibrant North Beach with new coffee shops and expanded markets
- Less bureaucracy and more opportunity
The Opposition
Former Supervisor Aaron Peskin is activating his old power network to oppose these common-sense reforms. They argue these rules "protect" the neighborhood, but in reality they:
- Keep storefronts vacant
- Prevent local entrepreneurs from succeeding
- Force business owners to hire expensive lawyers
- Create uncertainty that discourages investment
Take Action Now
The Board of Supervisors will vote on this legislation in the coming weeks. Your voice matters:
- Sign the petition to show your support
- Contact your supervisor to express support for cutting red tape
- Share this campaign with neighbors who want thriving local businesses
Together, we can ensure North Beach becomes a more vibrant neighborhood where entrepreneurs can succeed.
Sign The Petition
Sign our petition to support Supervisor Sauter's legislation and help small businesses thrive in North Beach!
1 signatures createdHelp us reach our goal of 250!
What needs to happen
| Where | When | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Supervisor Sauter introduces legislation | July 28, 2025 | View Legislation |
| Planning Commission | September 25, 2025 | Get Updates |
| upcomingLand Use Committee | October 6, 2026 | Email The Committee |
| upcomingFull Board of Supervisors Vote | TBD | Get Updates |
What you can do
Email your representatives
Email the Board of Supervisors Land Use Committee to express support for Supervisor Sauter's legislation. Tell them you want thriving businesses, not empty storefronts.
Generate Your Personalized Email
Why do you support this reform?
To:
CC: SauterStaff@sfgov.org
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