Where to Start
Find My Zoning
Find specific zoning information for an address using the SF Property Information Map (PIM) and selecting the Zoning Information tab.
Zoning Resources
- Zoning Administrator Bulletins
- Zoning Administrator Interpretations of the Planning Code
- More zoning-related maps can be found here.
- Zoning maps per Planning Code §105 and §106
Variance and Variance Hearings
A variance is a request for an exception from a Planning Code standard which would cause practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship if applied as written. A request for an exception is determined at a Zoning Variance Hearing.
Planning Code Violations
Spotted a potential violation? Examples of violations include construction/demolition, landscaping maintenance, building misuse and inappropriate parking. The Code Enforcement Team is responsible for overseeing compliance with the City's Planning Code.
If there is doubt about a potential violation, the Planning Counter can also help clarify whether or not a violation exists.
Written Determinations
Letters of Determination
Letters of Determination (LOD) are a written determination from the Zoning Administrator in response to a request to provide formal guidance on a specific Planning Code interpretation or determination. These determinations may address any provision of the Planning Code, such as:
- Permitted uses
- Development controls like yards, setbacks, building heights, and others
- Nonconforming status of existing uses
- Process applicability
LODs are optional and not required prior to the submittal of any development application. They are often complex and require further research on the part of the Planning Department and/or requestor. While LODs are formal, appealable determinations, they are not a development approval or permit. Upon issuance, applicants still must obtain all required authorizations and permits before a use or project may commence.
For current land use and zoning information of a specific property or a Rebuild Letter, please request a Zoning Verification Letter instead.
Zoning Verification and Rebuild Letters
A Zoning Verification Letter (ZVL) is a written response to a request regarding the current land use and zoning for a specific property, including information on variances, special permits/exceptions, ordinances or conditions, and violations. This type of letter is more simplistic in nature than a Letter of Determination. A ZVL generally includes, but are not necessarily limited to, a Rebuild Letter.
A Rebuild Letter is a form of Zoning Verification Letter that states that a subject building can be restored to its original condition and use in the event the property is destroyed by fire or any other form of natural disaster. The fee for this type of letter is the same as the fee for a Zoning Verification Letter.
