Commission approves Phono Bar change of ownership permit; new operators outline noise-control practices
Loading...
Summary
The Entertainment Commission approved a change-of-ownership Place of Entertainment permit for Phono Bar at 370 Grove Street. New owners described interior sound attenuation, signage, and plans to keep outdoor speakers off after 11 p.m.
The San Francisco Entertainment Commission approved a change-of-ownership Place of Entertainment permit for Phono Bar, 370 Grove Street, clearing the way for the new ownership team to operate DJ-driven indoor programming and limited outdoor amplified sound with conditions.
Staff said the new owners are keeping the existing high-fidelity sound system and that extensive interior attenuation remains in place. The POE application requested outdoor amplified sound at the front of the business and in parklets daily between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m., not to exceed eight hours per day. Staff reported one neighbor concern in advance about outdoor programming and provided an email thread showing the owner agreed to ensure outdoor speakers are off by 11 p.m., install signage asking patrons to lower voices, and provide a business phone number for real-time complaints.
New-owner representatives Henry Vasquez, Shahir Missive and David Zimmerman told commissioners they had removed an exterior speaker during renovations, installed ballistic plexiglass in the parklet area, plan to add additional wood and acoustic treatment inside and will keep doors closed to contain sound. Vasquez said the team has experience operating other nightlife venues and intends to be responsive to neighbors.
Commissioners asked about visible sound monitors, DJ vetting and neighborhood outreach; the applicants said limiters and visible monitors will be used and that they have posted contact information and signs. After public comment—there were no objections—the commission voted to approve the permit with staff recommendations. President Bridal, Vice President Wong, Commissioner Davis, Commissioner Perez, Commissioner Poggio, Commissioner Schlander and Commissioner Thomas voted aye.
Staff emphasized that SFPD Northern Station added no conditions and that the commission’s approval carries the permit’s existing sound-limit condition and the applicant’s commitments about speakers, signage and a contact number for neighborhood concerns.
