Planning Commission approves cannabis retail project at 43 Norfolk Street

The San Francisco Planning Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a discretionary review request concerning a building permit application for a cannabis retail establishment at 43 Norfolk Street. The proposed project involves converting approximately 1,741 square feet from warehouse space to a cannabis retail outlet, which is permitted under the zoning regulations of the Western SoMa Mixed Use General Zoning District and the Leather and LGBTQ Cultural District.

During the meeting, Michael Christiansen from the planning department presented the application, noting that the site is situated in an area characterized by a mix of residential, industrial, and entertainment uses. The discretionary review was initiated by a local resident, Fung Lao, who raised two primary concerns: the lack of compliance review with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the compatibility of the cannabis retail business with the surrounding family residential neighborhood.

Christiansen clarified that the ADA compliance review is a standard part of the building permit process and occurs after the planning department's review. He also emphasized that the Western SoMa area already hosts a variety of industrial and nightlife establishments, suggesting that the proposed cannabis retail use aligns with the existing context.

The project sponsor, Marie Momarque, expressed her support for the application, urging the commission to approve it. Public comment included a supportive statement from Angela White, who praised Momarque's community involvement and commitment to the project.

After hearing the presentations and public comments, the commission moved to not take further action on the discretionary review request and approved the project as proposed. The motion was unanimously supported by all commissioners present, marking a significant step forward for the cannabis retail establishment in the Western SoMa area.