For Immediate Release 

July 13, 2006

Contact: Christine Falvey

Tel: (415) 554-6920

***PRESS RELEASE***

The Department of Public Works Announces

Availability of New Sidewalk Landscape Permits

San Francisco, Ca – The Department of Public Works (Bureau of Urban Forestry) announced today that is accepting permits for sidewalk landscaping. In addition to planting trees, this permit allows property owners to convert a portion of the sidewalk in front of their property into an attractive landscaped area.

Previously, property owners were required to apply for costly encroachment permits for the same purpose – typically costing upwards of $800 and requiring months of review. The new permit cost ranges from $160 to $215, and provides incentives for neighbors to work collaboratively to green entire blocks.

Sidewalk landscaping is highly encouraged, but requires the permit to ensure that landscaping in sidewalk areas is properly constructed and maintained in order to maximize benefits, protect public accessibility and safety, and limit conflicts with infrastructure. The fee is non-cost recovering because city policy encourages the landscaping of sidewalks as a public benefit. Landscaped areas provide a range of environmental benefits and bring beauty to neighborhoods and commercial districts.

"Green and clean neighborhoods are essential to the quality of life, economic development, social fabric, and environmental health of San Francisco," said Mayor Newsom. Allowing property owners to easily landscape the areas in front of their homes fosters a sense of pride in their communities. Together with this effort, we will make San Francisco a green and clean city residents will be proud to call home," continued the Mayor.

To apply for a sidewalk landscaping permit, log on to www.sfdpw.org or call 28-CLEAN and ask for the Urban Forestry Division.

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