Planning Commission Approves Common-Sense Driveway Parking Reform

The Facts

The San Francisco Planning Commission unanimously approved 7-0 Mayor Daniel Lurie's proposal Thursday to allow residents to park in their own driveways without requiring decorative screens or fences. The reform eliminates a bizarre regulation that previously made it illegal to park "operable vehicles in the front setback of a property" unless cars were hidden behind barriers.

Under current law, a Noe Valley couple was fined $1,500 in 2022 for parking in their driveway, even though their vehicle didn't block the sidewalk, according to Renee Koury at ABC 7 news. The city currently has 135 active complaints against residents parking in their own driveways, according to the Planning Department.

The legislation still requires Board of Supervisors approval to take effect.

The Context

This reform is part of Lurie's PermitSF initiative to eliminate bureaucratic red tape. The proposal allows up to two operable vehicles per driveway and maintains restrictions on boats, trailers, and permanently disabled vehicles. Cars still cannot encroach on sidewalks or public rights-of-way. We first covered this in September when it was first introduced.

The GrowSF Take

Sometimes it's the little things that really make a difference. For every person hit with a surprise fine for parking in their own driveway, this reform will bring relief.