San Francisco Planning Commission approves ordinance removing outdated oil and gas regulations

The San Francisco Planning Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the city’s planning code, particularly focusing on the proposed removal of Article 12, which regulates oil and gas exploration and development activities. The meeting began with a presentation by a planning department representative, who outlined the implications of the proposed ordinance.

Article 12, originally adopted in 1990 following a 1986 ballot initiative, established two overlay zoning districts—M2 OGS and M2 OGP—where oil and gas facilities could operate under conditional use approval. However, since its adoption, no new overlay zones have been created. The proposed removal of Article 12 aims to revert control of oil and gas facilities back to Article 2 of the planning code, which encompasses PDR (Production, Distribution, and Repair) and M zoning districts, allowing for varying degrees of oil and gas operations.

The planning department supports the ordinance's removal, citing it as an outdated regulation that aligns with the city’s environmental goals and commitment to social equity. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential for oil and gas facilities to be permitted in vulnerable communities without the protections previously offered by Article 12. To mitigate this risk, the department proposed a modification to the definition of heavy manufacturing, specifically excluding petroleum production and refining from the definition.

Following the presentation, public comment was solicited, but no members of the public chose to speak. The commissioners then expressed their support for the ordinance. Commissioner Moore highlighted the importance of the ordinance and referenced similar issues in Los Angeles County regarding private oil wells. The discussion underscored San Francisco's proactive stance in preventing oil extraction near sensitive communities.

A motion to approve the ordinance with the proposed modifications was made and unanimously passed by the commissioners, marking a significant step in the city’s regulatory framework concerning oil and gas activities. The meeting then transitioned to the next agenda item regarding planning code amendments for laundromats and on-site laundry services.