Bernal Heights project requires variance amid neighborhood privacy concerns

The San Francisco Planning Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a proposed residential project at 98 Mullen Avenue, which has sparked significant community interest and concern. The meeting primarily focused on the need for a variance due to the project's failure to meet the mass reduction requirements outlined in the planning code.

The proposed project aims to add a 790-square-foot vertical addition to an existing home. However, it falls short of the required mass reduction of 650 square feet, necessitating a variance. Local resident David Ng expressed concerns about the project's scale and its impact on neighborhood aesthetics, privacy, and public views. Ng suggested reducing the height of the addition from 34 to 32 feet to better align with the neighborhood's character.

Despite these concerns, the planning staff recommended approval of the project, noting that it adheres to residential design guidelines and only modestly compromises views of Bernal Hill and Twin Peaks. The staff emphasized that the project does not pose undue privacy impacts, as the windows facing neighboring properties are limited in size and distance.

Public support for the project was evident, with 20 letters in favor and no opposition letters submitted. Project sponsor Tim Callan highlighted the family's need for additional space due to their growing household, stating that the design is responsive to the neighborhood context and has received support from the East Slope Design Review Board.

The commission ultimately voted unanimously to approve the project, recognizing the unique circumstances of the site and the efforts made by the project sponsors to address community concerns. The approval included the granting of the variance, allowing the project to proceed as planned.

In a separate agenda item, the commission also reviewed a proposal for a significant addition to a historic property on Elizabeth Street. This project faced opposition from neighboring residents who argued that it would disrupt the character of the historic row of houses and negatively impact light and privacy. The commission is expected to deliberate further on this matter in upcoming meetings.

Overall, the discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges of balancing development needs with community concerns in San Francisco's evolving urban landscape.