Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Telecom Infrastructure topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission approves multiple AT&T wireless siting permits
Summary
At its Nov. 3 meeting the commission approved several AT&T conditional use authorizations—including a six‑antenna installation at 1555 Irving Street—after staff recommended design and safety conditions; commissioners reiterated that RF health questions are handled by public health and FCC standards, and in‑home RF readings can be requested by residents.
The San Francisco Planning Commission voted on Nov. 3 to approve several conditional use authorizations for wireless telecommunications facilities proposed by AT&T, including an installation at 1555 Irving Street to add up to six panel antennas on an expanded rooftop tower intended to close local coverage gaps.
Planning staff presented the technical packet for the Irving Street site and recommended approval with preference to the listed rooftop location and standard conditions. AT&T representatives described an industry‑wide surge in mobile data demand and said the site is necessary to close a significant service gap; company representatives and consultants provided alternative‑site analyses and radio‑frequency reports included in the hearing packet.
Multiple residents asked for additional RF information and in‑home readings; commissioners and staff repeatedly noted that federal FCC exposure limits apply, that the San Francisco Department of Public Health conducts evaluations when needed, and that AT&T offered to perform in‑home RF measurements for concerned residents.
After deliberation, commissioners moved and voted to approve the Irving Street permit (case 2011.0648C) and related rooftop/faux‑vent installations on other consent items with conditions addressing aesthetics, equipment screening and required engineering tests; the motions carried with unanimous recorded votes (transcript records unanimous approvals for the consent items).
The commission emphasized that local siting authority focuses on aesthetics, design and whether the proposed location complies with the city’s WTS (wireless telecommunications siting) guidelines; health questions related to RF exposure were repeatedly identified as outside the commission’s regulatory remit and referred to the Department of Public Health and FCC standards.
AT&T and several community members were advised to continue direct outreach; staff can also arrange RF readings for residents who request them.
