Commission conditionally grants live‑performance permit for Woods Polk Station

The San Francisco Entertainment Commission voted unanimously to grant a conditional limited live‑performance permit to Woods Polk Station, a small bar on Polk Street in Russian Hill, after hearing from the applicant and discussing neighbor and sound concerns.

Manager Pablo Soriano told the commission he had personally notified roughly 75 nearby neighbors and businesses and received mostly positive responses. He said the venue is about 350 square feet and plans to host one‑ to two‑hour acoustic sets by soloists or duos with minimal amplification, and that he will provide his contact information to neighbors for direct complaints.

Soriano said the venue will request a commission sound test, and that amplified artists would provide their own equipment; he indicated he will work with neighboring businesses and residents to choose stage placement and keep windows and doors closed during performances.

SFPD review found no police conditions for the permit and no letters of protest were received. A commissioner moved to approve with the standard good‑neighbor policy; the motion passed with Commissioners Thomas, Vice Chair Camino, Tan and Lee voting aye. The permit was conditionally granted pending follow‑up with Executive Director Maggie Wylund.

Commissioners recommended the operator consider a sound meter and other low‑cost amplification solutions to maintain predictable decibel levels and reduce neighbor complaints.