If your project needs more of the roadway and/or sidewalk than a Street Space Permit allows, you'll need an Additional Street Space (ADS) Permit. These permits are issued month to month for longer-term building construction. Excavation work isn't allowed under an ADS Permit.
A General Excavation Permit allows a licensed contractor to dig up and restore sidewalk or roadway pavement in the public right-of-way to install, repair, or replace a utility connection for an individual property, such as a water, sewer, or gas line.
This inspection confirms that the sidewalk and street next to your project still meet City standards and the Public Works Code after construction. If they do, Public Works can recommend early release of your building permit. Apply online.
This application covers the inspection only. It doesn't allow any sidewalk work or alterations, and it doesn't replace any other permits you may need for sidewalk or street improvements or encroachments.
A Major Encroachment Permit is required for any structure or feature built on or under a public sidewalk or street that isn't already allowed by the San Francisco Building Code, Administrative Code, Public Works Code, or Police Code. These permits are revocable and must be approved by a resolution of the Board of Supervisors.
 TIP: We understand that "Encroachment" permits are a term commonly used by other local and state agencies to temporarily occupy public rights-of-way or complete excavation work on public roadways and sidewalks. That is not the case for our Minor Sidewalk Encroachment permit. |
Per Article 29 Section 2908 of the Police Code, no one is allowed to perform construction activities in the public right of way that exceed the ambient noise level by 5 dBA unless a Night Noise permit is previously approved by Public Works. (See Police Code for reference)
A Side Sewer Permit allows a licensed contractor to install a sewer lateral in the public right-of-way. It covers work from the property's sewer trap out to the City sewer main in the street.
For work between the building and the trap, you'll need a General Excavation Permit instead.
Your responsibility for the sidewalk
To empower San Francisco property owners with clear, accessible guidance on their responsibility to maintain safe, compliant sidewalks, promoting public safety, accessibility and community stewardship.
San Francisco Public Works
49 South Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94103
City and County of San Francisco
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