Inspectors cite Neck of the Woods for noise violations; Brixton suspension remains in effect

SAN FRANCISCO — At the Aug. 1 meeting of the San Francisco Entertainment Commission, staff reported recent enforcement actions: Neck of the Woods (406 Clement Street) received a notice of violation and later a citation after inspectors recorded sound readings above permitted limits, and The Brixton’s 15-day suspension of its limited live performance permit is currently in effect.

The Senior Inspector said inspectors responded to multiple 3-1-1 complaints and measured an upstairs band at Neck of the Woods at 97.3 dBA and 107.3 dBC, above the allowable upstairs limit of 91 dBA and 102 dBC. Staff issued a notice of violation on July 25 for exceeding limits and for operating with doors and windows open during entertainment. A later visit by Inspector Fiorentino recorded readings of 87.1 dBA and 104.7 dBC and led to further enforcement steps and a citation under the commission's Good Neighbor Policy No. 7.

Executive Director Wyland reported on administrative action taken in his absence: Deputy Director Azevedo issued a 15-day suspension of The Brixton’s limited live performance permit for incurring three permit violations within a 90-day period; the venue had five business days to appeal and did not do so, so the suspension took effect July 28 at 5 p.m. and will cease Aug. 12 at 5 p.m. Wyland said the department will conduct random site visits to ensure compliance when the suspension ends.

“Neck of the Woods was issued a notice of violation on July 25 for violating their sound limit and for operating entertainment with their doors and windows open,” the Senior Inspector reported, describing measurements and inspector interactions with the venue’s sound engineer and manager.

Staff told commissioners they would continue follow-up site visits and work with owners to bring venues into compliance. Commissioners did not vote on enforcement items at this meeting; the report was informational but established that staff have active enforcement authority and will pursue further checks.

What’s next: Staff said they will perform additional random site visits to ensure ongoing compliance and will take further regulatory steps if permit conditions are not met.