Board continues Barber Lounge massage‑use appeal to Feb. 14 to review definitions and alternatives

The Board of Appeals continued the appeal by Greg Griffin, owner of the Barber Lounge at 854 Folsom Street, to Feb. 14 to allow time for the applicant to consult with the Police Department, Department of Public Health and Planning about how the proposed services should be described and whether any alternative framing would avoid the South of Market zoning prohibition on massage as an accessory or primary use.

Planning staff told the board that the South of Market zoning provisions specifically prohibit massage as accessory or primary use in the relevant subdistrict, and that the department approved the tenant‑improvement plan because it did not explicitly list massage. The owner said he was told verbally during pre‑lease calls that the use would be allowed and that health‑department staff reviewed plans and did not flag zoning concerns. He said his business has been operating and that he has workers who would lose shifts while the issue remains unresolved.

Commissioners noted that some larger gyms/spas can include massage under specific code sections and that a medical/therapeutic framing or other qualifying language might be an option. The board asked the appellant to return with documentation of any alternative use definitions, examples of comparable approvals (e.g., regional spa examples referenced in testimony), and to consult with police/health/planning staff about acceptable language. The board continued the matter 5–0 with the public hearing closed and directed any new paperwork be filed a week prior to Feb. 14.