A Wireless Telecommunication Service (WTS) facility is a commercial antenna or similar equipment that sends or receives radio frequency, microwave, or electromagnetic signals or waves. These are often referred to as “cell towers.”
Where do I start?
If you are planning to install or modify a WTS facility, you may need one or more land use approvals from the City, in addition to building permits.
Depending on the size, location, and zoning district of the property, your project may require a public hearing. Please visit the San Francisco Planning Information Map and type in the address of the property in question in the search bar. Next, select the “Zoning Information” tab on the left. Click on the name of the Zoning District that appears under “Zoning District” and a new window will open. In the new window, locate the Zoning Control Table and scroll down to “Wireless Telecommunications Services Facility”. If a WTS facility is listed as Conditionally Permitted (C), a public hearing will be required.
Additionally, if the proposed WTS facility is located within an Article 10 or 11 Historic District, or on a City Landmark (found under the “Historic Preservation” tab, additional preservation review such as an Administrative Certificate of Appropriateness or Minor Permit to Alter may be required.
If you have questions, please contact the wireless team by emailing: CPC.Wireless@sfgov.org.
WTS Facilities on Private Property
- Micro WTS Facilities
Micro WTS Facilities generally have limited visual impact, a small number of antennas (typically up to two), and are not proposed at "disfavored" locations listed in Section 8.1 of the Wireless Telecommunications Services (WTS) Siting Guidelines. Before a new Mirco WTS Facility can be approved, a formal determination is required through a Zoning Letter of Determination (ZAD). - New Macro WTS Facilities
Macro WTS Facilities generally have significant visual impacts and more than two antennas. Any proposal for a new Macro WTS facility is required to host a community outreach meeting as specified in Planning Commission Resolution No. 16539, a Supplement to the Wireless Telecommunications Services (WTS) Siting Guidelines. New Macro WTS facilities that are principally permitted can be approved over the counter. Where they are conditionally permitted, the facility will require a Project Application (PRJ) and a Wireless Conditional Use Authorization. - Temporary WTS Facilities
Temporary WTS facilities may be permitted for a period of one year in zoning districts where WTS facilities are principally permitted. Building permits are eligible for over-the-counter approval, however, a Temporary Use Authorization Application must be submitted to CPC.Intake@sfgov.org prior to building permit approval. Please note that temporary facilities must comply with Planning Code Section 205.2.
Minor Modifications to Existing WTS Facilities
Federal law requires that all local governments approve any request for modification of an existing tower or base station (Eligible Facilities Request under Section 6409) that does not substantially change the physical dimensions of such tower or base station. Eligible Facilities Request applications may be approved over-the-counter. Be sure to complete the Wireless Eligible Facilities Request Checklist, submit required reports, and familiarize yourself with the process for over the counter (OTC) permits.
WTS Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way
The SF Public Works Department is the permitting agency for WTS facilities on the sidewalk or in the street (referred to as the “right of way”). The Planning Department will only review proposals that don’t comply with the City’s Objective Design Standards or that are located in a historic district or designated view street.
Resources
Handouts and Guidelines
- Wireless Telecommunications Services (WTS) Facilities Siting Guidelines
- Wireless Telecommunication Services Handout (2011)
- Wireless Advisory Bulletin #3
Search for additional handouts and guidelines.