Commission limits Trinity’s pending permit to first floor after repeated noise complaints

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission reconditioned a pending limited-live-performance permit for Trinity on Oct. 3, limiting permitted entertainment activity to the first floor after staff described repeated noise complaints and unpermitted use of an upstairs space.

Deputy Director Azevedo said Trinity had received conditional approval in August but had yet to complete required door repairs; between Aug. 15 and Sept. 28 the office received 15 3-1-1 sound complaints and inspectors substantiated complaints during three of five visits. Azevedo told the commission inspectors observed a DJ performing at a private event on Sept. 9 and that an upstairs event area leads to an open‑air patio, which can funnel sound to rear neighbors.

"Following the event on September 9, I issued a citation for hosting entertainment without a permit," Azevedo said. "The business cannot operate any outdoor activity at the premises based on the planning department's recommendation."

Owners Nicholas Bonney and Johnny (last name not provided) told the commission they have DBI approval to begin door repairs and said they plan to remove upstairs speakers and cease prerecorded music in the upstairs patio until they can build a covering that reduces sound escape. Bonney said removing upstairs speakers is likely to cut sales but is a step the owners are taking to address neighbor concerns.

Commissioner discussion centered on whether to narrow the permitted area. Commissioner Falzon moved to recondition the permit to limit allowable entertainment to the first floor; the motion was seconded and adopted unanimously by the commissioners present. Staff said the permit remains unissued until required building- and fire-permit work is completed and conditions are met.

The commission directed staff to confirm DBI sign-off and to monitor compliance; owners were instructed to follow staff directions and to return with updates if they change the space.