Entertainment Commission addresses noise violations at Northern Ducks and other businesses

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on enforcement actions against several local businesses for violations of noise regulations and permit requirements. The meeting highlighted a series of complaints and subsequent inspections that revealed ongoing issues with sound levels and compliance with entertainment permits.

Deputy Director Fiorentino reported that since the last hearing on October 4, the Commission received 45 complaints. Key updates included incidents involving Bar Part Time, Northern Ducks, Outre, Jackson, and Ramp, all of which faced scrutiny for exceeding sound limits or operating without proper permits.

Bar Part Time, located at 496 Fourteenth Street, was found to be operating with loud music past its permitted hours. The owner acknowledged the violation and agreed to staff re-education. Northern Ducks, at 1355 Market Street, was cited for operating after hours and exceeding sound limits, with the manager refusing to lower the volume despite being advised by inspectors. Outre, at 1787 Union Street, faced a citation for hosting a DJ without a permit, while Jackson, at 3231 Filmore Street, was found violating its jam permit by hosting live entertainment past the allowed time.

The Ramp, located at 855 Terry Francois Boulevard, also received complaints regarding low-end bass frequencies affecting nearby residents. Despite previous education on sound monitoring, inspectors found the business noncompliant during multiple visits.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for Northern Ducks to appear before the Commission to explain its compliance plan, given the severity of its violations. The Commission expressed a desire to work with the City Attorney to address ongoing issues with businesses operating without the necessary permits.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Commission's commitment to enforcing sound regulations and ensuring compliance among local entertainment venues, with plans for further action against repeat offenders.