Board approves ordinance creating cannabis event permits, 9-2

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors on March 19 approved an ordinance to amend the police code and related municipal codes so the city’s Office of Cannabis can issue permits and temporary waivers authorizing sales and on-site cannabis consumption at approved events.

The ordinance passed by a 9-2 vote after roll call, with Supervisors Marr and Safaie recorded as voting no. The ordinance also adds an application fee in the Business and Tax Regulations Code and provides temporary waiver authority in related health and transportation code sections tied to events approved through the city’s permitting processes.

Supporters argued the ordinance creates a clear permitting path for event producers and gives the city regulatory control over on-site cannabis use; dissenting supervisors raised concerns about the scope of waivers and public safety at events. The board record shows the motion was carried with nine ayes and two no votes.

Why it matters: The measure establishes a city-level framework for permitting on-site cannabis sales and consumption at events — a regulatory step that affects event organizers, neighborhood event planning, and local enforcement.

What’s next: The ordinance was recorded as “finally passed” in the board minutes. Implementation details — including the permit application process, fee schedule, and operational conditions — will be handled by the Office of Cannabis and related departments under the new code language.

Votes at a glance - Ordinance to allow event permits and temporary waivers for cannabis sales/consumption: Passed 9–2 (No: Supervisor Marr; Supervisor Safaie).