Entertainment Commission backs Peskin ordinance to extend limited live performance permits to 11 p.m.

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission on a voice/roll-call vote directed staff to send supportive comments on an ordinance introduced by Supervisor Aaron Peskin that would change the end time for a limited live performance permit in a Polk Street zoning district from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Executive Director Wyland told commissioners the ordinance would remove one of three remaining zoning districts that still end such permits at 10 p.m., and said staff considered sending general comments in support to help reduce barriers for accessory use permits in the city. Wyland also noted the item was under the 30-day rule and would not itself change code without the Board of Supervisors’ action.

Commissioner Thomas moved the Commission to support the legislation and to direct staff to make the Commission’s views known; the motion was seconded and, after public comment was closed, passed in roll-call votes. Commissioner Thomas framed the motion as a way to advance nightlife businesses’ ability to operate later without altering staff’s role in setting technical permit conditions.

Commission President Ben Miliman recused himself from that action before the roll call. The Commission’s recorded votes in favor included Vice President Camino, Commissioner Perez, Commissioner Thomas and Commissioner Torres. The motion passed; staff will transmit a general supportive comment to the clerk of the Board as directed by the Commission.

The Commission did not take a formal vote on the underlying ordinance itself — that remains with the Board of Supervisors — and staff emphasized the Commission’s action was to transmit comment, not to adopt new law.