San Francisco Board passes updated SRO protection legislation to preserve affordable housing

In a pivotal meeting at San Francisco City Hall, the Board of Supervisors unanimously passed significant legislation aimed at protecting the city’s dwindling stock of Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing. This legislation, spearheaded by Supervisor Aaron Peskin, seeks to safeguard these vital living spaces that have historically provided affordable housing for low-wage workers, immigrant families, seniors, and other vulnerable populations.

The backdrop of this legislative push is a troubling trend: the number of SRO units in San Francisco has plummeted from over 33,000 in the late 1970s to just over 19,000 today. This decline has been exacerbated by a wave of demolitions and conversions to tourist accommodations, particularly during the late 20th century. In response, the city enacted a moratorium on such conversions in the late 1970s, but the existing regulations have not been updated since 1990.

The new legislation introduces several key changes. It prohibits short-term leasing of residential rooms in SROs, updates penalties for violations, and strengthens the enforcement powers of the Department of Building Inspection (DBI). Additionally, it requires a detailed floor plan to be submitted with hotel filings, clearly delineating residential and tourist designations.

During the meeting, several supervisors expressed their support for the legislation, emphasizing the importance of preserving affordable housing in a city where living costs continue to soar. Supervisor Safaii highlighted San Francisco's leadership in protecting such housing, noting that many cities across the nation have failed to do so. Supervisor Ronan, representing the Mission District, underscored the critical role SROs play in providing shelter for marginalized communities, including immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals.

The meeting also featured public comments from community members and advocates who celebrated the legislation as a historic victory for residential hotel tenants. They expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to the ordinance's passage, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and protection for low-income residents.

As the meeting concluded, the board's unanimous vote signaled a strong commitment to addressing the housing crisis in San Francisco, ensuring that the city remains a refuge for its most vulnerable residents. The legislation not only aims to preserve existing SRO units but also sets a precedent for future housing policies that prioritize the needs of low-income communities in an ever-changing urban landscape.