Millbrae planning commission approves sidewalk produce display at Sun’s Market

The Millbrae Planning Commission on Sept. 15 approved a conditional use permit allowing Sun’s Market, at 131 El Camino Real, to place an approximately 300-square-foot outdoor produce display along the store’s sidewalk. The motion passed 4–0 with one commissioner recorded as recused; the action is final pending a 10-day appeal period and payment of the required appeal fee.

Staff told the commission the proposal would place about five produce bins and two to three display shelves outside the store entrance, and be set up before opening and stowed at closing each day. Planning staff said the building department reviewed the plan and “stated that up to 60 inches from the entrance of the door remain free and clear of all produce displays and that at least a 60-inch path of travel along the sidewalk remain free and clear for the duration of the day.” The project sits within the Millbrae Station Area Specific Plan’s residential mixed‑use zone.

The applicant, represented at the hearing by Ms. Lee, said the display is intended to attract customers and “display its value.” Lee told commissioners the displays would be maintained by store employees, who would scrape the sidewalk and clean stains or spills as needed. The staff report and a planning condition (attachment 1, condition 5) require that all produce bins and stands be kept “in a neat, clean, and sanitary condition and in good repair at all times,” and that damaged carton‑style bins be removed from service and replaced.

Commissioners asked about accessibility, public‑health oversight and long‑term upkeep. Planning staff and the building department said the plan preserves the required clear path for wheelchair access. Staff also pointed to state food‑safety rules and San Mateo County Health Department authority for food handling and inspections; a staff speaker said the county may perform inspections and that the awnings or parasols would cover displayed produce during operating hours. Commissioners pressed how maintenance would be enforced; staff said code enforcement typically acts after public complaints and can inspect and require replacement or corrective action where conditions of approval are violated.

No members of the public registered to speak on the item. Commissioners who spoke expressed general support for the display while noting concerns about cleanliness and the need for enforcement if the condition deteriorates. The applicant and staff emphasized daily stowage, sanitation conditions, and the role of code enforcement as the primary recourse for problems.

The commission’s approval includes the conditions presented in the staff report and the notice that the decision may be appealed to the city clerk within 10 days. Staff provided contact information for appeals and noted the city website for appeal procedure details.