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Building Inspection Commission backs ordinance to allow 150‑sq‑ft efficiency dwelling units
Summary
The San Francisco Building Inspection Commission unanimously approved an ordinance aligning the local building code with state law to permit efficiency dwelling units with a minimum 150 sq ft living area (exclusive of bath/closet/kitchen) and a 220 sq ft total unit area, aiming to expand affordable-by-design housing options.
San Francisco — The Building Inspection Commission on April 18 voted unanimously to support a proposed ordinance amending San Francisco Building Code §1,208.4 to allow "efficiency dwelling units" with a minimum 150 square feet of living area, exclusive of bathroom, closet and kitchen space.
Supervisor Weiner introduced the ordinance during Item 7 of the agenda, telling commissioners the change brings the local code into line with California Health and Safety Code §17958.1 and preserves other code and health requirements. "No developer will be required to build a 150‑square‑foot living‑area efficiency — but they will have that option," Weiner said, adding the change would give developers and non‑profit housing providers additional flexibility to produce housing for students, seniors and transition‑age youth.
Developers and housing advocates testified in support. Dan Fratton of Reuben & Junius, appearing on behalf of the Housing Action Coalition, told the commission that many San Franciscans live alone and that smaller units built elsewhere have proven viable. Developer Patrick Kennedy of Panoramic Interests showed a 220‑square‑foot module and said the design retains bathroom, kitchen and storage while providing generous shared amenity space on the ground floor. "These are housing options that can be built near transit without subsidies," Kennedy said.
Commissioners questioned scope and enforcement. Staff clarified that the ordinance would be a general change to the building code (not restricted to new construction), that the 150‑square‑foot figure applies to the living area only (the whole unit must still meet a 220‑square‑foot total area requirement), and that occupancy for the smallest efficiencies would be limited to two people. Commissioners also raised concerns about ensuring adequate common areas, light and air in denser developments and how the change interacts with the city's Inclusionary Housing Ordinance; staff and the supervisor said the inclusionary rules remain in effect and related implementation issues would be addressed separately.
After public comment and discussion the commission moved and seconded approval. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
What happens next: The ordinance was favorably recommended by the Code Advisory Committee and the commission's action advances local adoption and associated environmental findings. The ordinance will proceed through any remaining legislative steps as required by city process.
