Supervisors pass first-reading ordinance creating Lower Haight alcohol-restricted district

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed on first reading an ordinance to create a Lower Haight Street alcohol-restricted use district that prohibits off-sale liquor establishments and includes a three-year sunset provision.

The measure, introduced as an amendment to the city's zoning code, was presented to the full board with findings that the change is consistent with the City's priority policies and the general plan. Supervisor Mercarini, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, described the ordinance as "common sense," saying it is part of a broader effort "to take back our streets" and address crime and quality-of-life issues in the neighborhood.

Supporters said the ordinance is one of several steps needed to improve safety and curb crime. The board voted to pass the ordinance on first reading without recorded debate on amendments or a separate roll-call vote in the public record beyond the standard "same house, same call" procedure.

The ordinance will return for further consideration in subsequent readings before final adoption and implementation. The planning and building departments will update the zoning map to show the new district boundaries and apply any administrative steps required under the planning code.