San Francisco reinstates eviction protections for COVID-19 affected tenants and prohibits late fees

The San Francisco County Board of Supervisors convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a significant ordinance aimed at protecting residential tenants from eviction due to non-payment of rent related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the administrative code to prohibit landlords from evicting tenants for rent that became due on or after April 1, 2022, if the non-payment is linked to the pandemic. Additionally, it would prevent landlords from imposing late fees or penalties on these tenants.

Supervisor Preston, who led the discussion, emphasized the urgency of the ordinance, noting that the statewide eviction protections had expired, yet many tenants still faced financial hardships. He highlighted that over 11,000 applications for rent relief were pending, totaling more than $182 million in requested funds. The ordinance aims to reinstate permanent eviction protections for tenants unable to pay rent during the ongoing state of emergency.

The legislation mirrors previous protections established in 2020, which were upheld in court against challenges from landlord groups. It clarifies that while rent obligations remain enforceable, they cannot be grounds for eviction during the pandemic-related emergency. The ordinance also modifies rules regarding habitual late payment evictions, ensuring that delayed rent cannot be used as a basis for eviction.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a range of perspectives. Some tenants expressed the need for continued protections, citing ongoing financial struggles and delays in rent relief processing. Conversely, several landlords voiced concerns about the impact of the legislation on their financial stability, arguing that it disproportionately favors tenants while neglecting the challenges faced by small property owners.

In conclusion, the Board of Supervisors is poised to send the ordinance to the full board with a positive recommendation, as discussions continue regarding potential state-level actions to further address eviction protections. The outcome of this ordinance could significantly impact the housing landscape in San Francisco as the city navigates the ongoing effects of the pandemic.