Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in South San Francisco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in zoning
ADU separate conveyance zoning amendment (AB 1033)
State-mandated changes let single-family lots add up to three units (detached/attached ADU, converted ADU, and junior ADU) and allow up to eight detached ADUs on existing apartment lots. Most junior ADUs no longer require the owner to live on site, and fire sprinklers can't be forced on the primary house.
Storefront retail cannabis regulations
The city currently allows only delivery-only cannabis retail. Council direction from the study session: two storefronts to start, east of Highway 101, a lottery after staff pre-screening, preference for existing local operators, and a 2-3% tax rate instead of 5%. An ordinance could come back in 2027.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Technical Services Program
The city planned to spend $206,500 to keep Hello Housing running its ADU assistance program, which helps homeowners navigate building accessory dwelling units. It's part of the city's push to add more housing options.
Beekeeping ordinance adopted
Beekeeping will soon be allowed in every zoning district, not just residential — fixing a loophole that left a Genentech employee beekeeping group technically breaking the law. New rules cover hive placement, pollinator food sources, neighbor notification, and flight paths; second reading comes in August.
Beekeeping allowed in all zoning districts
New rules would let residents and even businesses keep beehives citywide, not just in residential zones, with hive limits raised to six on large lots. Safeguards include flyway barriers, screening, rear-yard placement in residential districts, and required pollinator-friendly plantings to protect native bees.
Hookah lounge CUP at 1429 San Mateo Avenue
The city's only legal hookah lounge got the green light in an industrial-area restaurant, with strict conditions: non-nicotine, non-tobacco products only, 21-and-over access, and six- and twelve-month compliance reviews. Commissioners wrestled with how self-regulated age checks will be enforced and adjusted event hours to protect industrial-area parking.