Committee delays vote on driveway-parking rule amid public calls for CEQA review

The Land Use & Transportation Committee voted Dec. 15 to continue an ordinance that would amend the Planning Code to permit parking of up to two operable vehicles in front setbacks and other required yards.

Lisa Gluckstein, planning staff speaking for the mayor's office, told the committee the mayor's office is still working on amendments and requested additional time. Multiple public commenters urged a full environmental review under CEQA and clearer drafting: Scott Feeney argued that expanding legal parking could induce more vehicle ownership and miles traveled, undermining San Francisco's transit-first and climate policies. "Expanding legal parking spaces across the city will absolutely change the environment," Feeney said.

Livable City and other commenters said the measure's intent was unclear—whether it facilitates garage-to-dwelling conversions or simply increases parking capacity—and warned the measure could reduce front gardens and street trees and interact ambiguously with recently changed parking maximums. Other residents described sidewalks and curb privatization problems caused by driveways and urged more analysis.

Chair Mirna Melgar moved to continue the item to Jan. 12, 2026; the committee recorded three ayes.

The item will return with proposed amendments from the mayor's office and further analysis.