Commission recommends planning code changes on mid‑block alleys, rooftop enclosures; adds obsolete equipment removal requirement

The Planning Commission recommended on March 24 that the Board of Supervisors consider amendments to sections of the planning code governing mid‑block alley controls and rooftop screening and enclosures. Staff said the changes would make mid‑block alley controls more consistently applicable across districts (including SoMa NCT, Folsom Street NCT and RCD) and allow greater flexibility in rooftop screens and enclosures subject to design review, including permitting enclosures to cover up to 100 percent of roof area where appropriate.

Staff noted only one comment suggested relocating the mid‑block alley controls to a different code section. Commissioners focused discussion on whether the amendment should include a cross‑reference or requirement to remove obsolete rooftop mechanical equipment when new equipment or enclosures are installed. Staff said the proposed ordinance covered screening and enclosures but did not address removal of existing equipment; several commissioners argued for an explicit removal requirement to avoid unnecessary accumulation of outdated equipment.

Commissioner Johnson moved that the commission recommend approval of the planning code amendments to the Board of Supervisors and add an amendment requiring the removal of obsolete rooftop equipment when new enclosures or equipment are added; the motion passed unanimously 7–0.

Next steps: The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors; staff indicated they will incorporate the amendment language requiring removal of outmoded equipment in the final recommendation.