Supervisors pass ordinance tightening review, notice rules for wireless facilities on public poles

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously approved, on first reading, an ordinance to amend the Public Works Code that updates permitting for personal wireless service facilities in the public right-of-way.

Supervisor Avalos, the legislation's sponsor, said the changes respond to a court ruling and federal law constraining local modification rules. The ordinance removes the old tiered permit system, seeks to preserve the city's ability to regulate the aesthetics of installations, requires disclosure in permit applications if carriers plan to modify installations, extends notice and protest rights to the public for permit applications, and updates permit terms and fees for cost recovery by the Department of Public Works (DPW). "This amendment would simplify the current permitting process and ensure that the modification provisions comply with federal law," Avalos said.

Supporters said the change helps preserve neighborhood aesthetics and prevents carriers from proposing a smaller installation in public notice and later increasing its size without notice. Supervisor Weiner thanked Avalos and DPW for the work and raised concerns about utilities' practices (for example, PG&E-supplied meter boxes that increase visible bulk), urging more outreach to carriers. Planning and DPW staff said outreach was limited because the ordinance was a necessary response to court decisions that required rapid changes to code.

Supervisor Cohen asked about fee increases and the environmental review. Avalos said fees are being increased to account for DPW inspection and public hearing costs; planning staff and the city attorney said environmental review procedures remain unchanged and prior applicable findings are in place.

The ordinance passed on first reading by unanimous vote.