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Neighbors protest Lokma's outdoor music; commission approves ambient‑music permit
Summary
Residents testified that Lokma's outdoor music and expanded parklet operations have caused ongoing noise and quality‑of‑life problems; the owner said the restaurant has reduced noise and sought neighbor outreach. Despite opposition from nearby residents, the Entertainment Commission approved Lokma's FPAS permit with staff recommendations.
SAN FRANCISCO — A dozen nearby residents told the San Francisco Entertainment Commission on Aug. 20 that prolonged outdoor music, increased sidewalk seating and earlier changes since 2020 have degraded life above Lokma at 1801 Clement Street. The commission voted to approve the restaurant’s Fixed Place Amplified Sound (FPAS) permit despite multiple public complaints.
Daniella Reble, who said she has lived at 1811 Clement for more than 21 years, told the commission she and at least 25 neighbors have suffered “tremendous stress” from increased capacity and music after the jam‑permit period. “They only care about their bottom line and not neighbors concerns,” Reble said, urging commissioners not to grant the FPAS.
Karen Wong, a longtime property owner in the block, said kitchen noise, loud customers and equipment noise have affected her husband’s health and that she has filed complaints with the Health Department, Fire Department and building inspection, as recorded in 311. Wong recounted a driveway‑blocking incident she said impeded an emergency exit and said she feared a new permit would worsen the situation.
Emre, Lokma’s owner, told the commission the restaurant aims to play only ambient, low‑volume prerecorded music for outdoor diners, has taken steps to reduce noise (including physical barriers) and distributed outreach letters to neighbors. “We will keep it respectful to our neighbors,” Emre said.
Staff reported five letters of support and two letters of opposition in the file, said inspectors had no 2024 sound complaints for Lokma and noted prior compliance findings when inspectors responded in 2022–2023. Commissioners emphasized the limits of the Entertainment Commission’s jurisdiction — staff repeatedly explained that some complaints (kitchen noises, parking and certain building issues) fall to other city departments, while music played outside and after‑hours sound are within commission authority.
Commissioners pressed the owner on strict adherence to permitted hours and encouraged proactive neighbor engagement. After discussion, the commission voted to approve the FPAS with staff recommendations and standard conditions; commissioners also reminded neighbors that 311 remains the channel for prompt inspection responses.
What happens next: The permit is effective upon issuance with standard conditions; staff said neighbors should report violations through 311 to trigger field inspections and enforcement.
