If you are planning a deck or remodeling a deck in San Francisco, here is what you should consider.

– Setback requirements
– Open Space requirements

How do local laws affect deck building?

The San Francisco Planning Department regulates the installation of new decks. San Francisco features zoning districts that maintain the purpose and character of different areas. Knowing your zone tells you whether you can build a deck or if you need to meet conditional requirements. Additionally, your zone determines other legal rules to follow, such as land-use regulations for building projects.

Besides zoning and land use, other regulations exist. Your application must meet the criteria of the San Francisco General Plan, the San Francisco Municipal Code and all policies regarding environmental impact of new constructions and the historical importance of your property as well as regulations related to neighborhood notification and buildable areas of property.

Requirements for Neighborhood Notification

You must notify your neighborhood if your planned deck, and access to it, will not fall within the legal buildable area of your property. The proposed project requires approval from your adjacent neighbors, and after they receive notification, they have 10 days to voice any concerns. Those that live within 150 feet of your proposed project have 30 days to object.