Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research I Santa Monica Parklet Program
Peer Cities
Parklet
Research
Parklet Research Memo
June 15, 2022
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION
Research completed
Time frame
Methods
How to navigate the memo
RESEARCH OVERVIEW
Siting criteria
Design guidelines and standards
Application components
Logistics and 0ther information
DETAILED MATRIX OF FINDINGS
1 2
2 2
2 3
4 5
7 10
11 Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 1 Introduction
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 1 Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 2 Research Completed
An analysis of peer city parklet
manuals was conducted to inform
this memo. This memo serves as a
comprehensive summary to inform
the creation of a permanent Santa
Monica Parklet Manual. The peer
cities studied include Culver City,
West Hollywood, Long Beach, and
San Francisco, as these cities share
many similar characteristics with the
City of Santa Monica.
Time Frame
Analysis and peer review occurred in
the Spring of 2022.
Methods
Data collection methods included
reviewing peer city parklet manuals,
parklet application forms, relevant
city websites, and communicating
with peer city staff.
How to Navigate the Memo
This memo is organized into four
sections
• Siting criteria
• Design guidelines & standards
• Application components
• Logistics & 0ther information
With each section, subtopics
showcase parklet design and approval
processes of the peer cities. More
specific information regarding each
city's parklet application process is
located in the Detailed Matrix at the
end of the document.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 3 Research
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 3 Overview
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 4 When submitting a parklet
application, applicants must consider
the site on which their parklet will
sit. This site must adhere to specific
rules enforced by each peer city.
Siting criteria requirements that relate
to speed limit, curb considerations,
utilities, and slope were referenced by
all four peer cities, and are detailed
below.
Speed Limit
In Long Beach and San Francisco,
speed limits for roads on which
parklets are sited need to be 25 mph
or less. West Hollywood requires a
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and
an additional setback for parklets on
roads with speed limits greater than
25 mph. Culver City allows parklets
on streets with speeds greater than 35
mph, but required parklet operators
to install metal bollards to protect
parklet occupants.
Curb Considerations
In Culver City and West Hollywood
parklets cannot be sited within blue,
green, red, yellow, or white painted
curbs. Long Beach only prohibits
sites within red curbs and along areas
that are designated for fire hydrants,
bus stops, loading and taxi zones,
and disabled parking. San Francisco
allows painted curbs to be moved,
with the exception of disabled parking
spaces. Details on how the parklet
base is attached to the curb is also
noted in some manuals.
Distance from an Intersection
Most peer cities require parklets to
be located 20’ from intersections.
Long Beach utilizes a 45 degree
sight triangle to define distance from
intersection.
Utilities
Long Beach and San Francisco do
not allow parklets to be built over or
block utility covers or access points.
West Hollywood also brought this
up in conversations as a critical
requirement. San Francisco allows
parklets to sit on top of buried
infrastructure and utilities such
as gas and sewer lines. Currently,
Culver City and West Hollywood allow
parklets to be built over utility covers
as long as the design provides access
via a hinged door.
Slope
Three of the four peer cities require
that the maximum cross slope is
2%. Long Beach stipulates that their
slope should follow ADA standards.
Siting Criteria
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 5 Trees and Planting
Landscape elements are encouraged
throughout the parklet peer cities.
Each city has particular stipulations
as to the type, dimensions, and
density of the planting elements. They
also regulate how these plantings are
integrated into the parklet and how
they affect visibility and pedestrian
pass through. Please see the Matrix
for specific planting guidelines per
city.
Structures
Each city allows operators to install
structures in the parklet but have
specific rules regarding wall height,
material, and roof height. In most
cases, structural walls should not
be above 36”, as they obstruct
visibility. Roof height is limited to
measurements between 84" and 120"
tall. All of the parklet structures are
considered freestanding and are not
to attach to buildings. See the Matrix
for specific standards by city.
Template
None of the peer cities provide a
design template or a ‘kit of parts’
for applicants, which must be used.
However, sample site plans were
provided in all of the parklet manuals.
Signage
Commercial advertising is not
permitted in the parklets. However,
Culver City allows a sandwich board
to be present in the parklet. West
Hollywood allows two ‘open to the
public’ signs within the parklet, as
well as integrated acknowledgment of
sponsorship or logos, etc.
ADA
All peer cities require that parklets
adhere to ADA guidelines, however
West Hollywood and San Fransico
have additional guidlines. West
Hollywood recommends that ADA
requirements for adjacent sidewalks
should exceed 48" to allow more
room for crowds around parklets.
San Fransico requires an accessibility
plan to be included in application
materials.
Travel Lane Buffer
Three of the peer cities require a 1’
buffer from an adjacent bike lane or
traffic lane. West Hollywood requires
a 2’ buffer on streets with speeds
greater than 25mph. San Francisco
requires a 4’ inner buffer when the
parklet is adjacent to another parallel
parking space, and a 2’ buffer when
adjacent to a driveway, motorcycle/
scooter parking, or a bicycle corral.
Wheel Stops
Wheel stop regulations are the same
among three of the peer cities. Wheel
stops should be installed 4’ from
the edge of each perimeter parking
space. Long Beach proposes a
minimum of 2’ from the edge of each
perimeter parking space.
Vertical Edge at the Street
The height of the required edge of
a parklet varies. For example, West
Hollywood mandates that the vertical
edge is between 36” and 72" tall.
Long Beach mandates that vertical
edges are a maximum of 36” tall, but
vertical support structures for shade
can be 84" tall.
Design Guidelines
& Standards
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 6 Length
Three of the four peer cities require
parklets to be a minimum length
of one parking space. Two parking
spaces is the maximum parklet
length.
Width
Allowable parklet widths range
between 6’- 8’.
Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Min Length 1 parking space. 1 parking space. Official length not written in manual. Removal of existing
parking is allowed providing
that the proposed parklet
does not cause more than
10% of available parking
spaces within a 2 block radius
to be occupied.
1 parking space.
Max Length 3 parking spaces;
52'.
3 parking spaces. No max, but more than 2
spaces require more review.
"A 4 ft inner buffer is required
when adjacent to another
parallel parking space (2 ft
when adjacent to a driveway,
motorcycle/scooter parking, or
a bicycle corral)."
Width 6' 8' "The Parklet may not extend
beyond 7' from the curb
line where there is parallel
parking, or 15' from the curb
line where there is diagonal
parking."
6'
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 7 Each of the peer cities studied have
specific requirements that applicants
must adhere to regarding eligibility,
process and timing, noticing,
outreach, fees, and insurance. All
cities operate permit programs for
parklet development.
Eligibility
Eligibility is typically open to
businesses and organizations. Some
cities are more specific regarding who
can apply for a parklet. Culver City
states that their applications are open
to restaurants, retailers and other
businesses. West Hollywood specifies
that property owners, government
funded business owners, nonprofits,
and community organizations can
apply.
Application, Process, & Timing
The application processes involve
reviewing the city's parklet manuals,
gathering and submitting application
materials, applying for permits, and
paying required fees. Application
materials among the peer cities
typically involves submitting a parklet
proposal, which includes a site plan
of the proposed parklet, photos of
the proposed site, a parklet project
description or summary, and proof
of consent or a signed petition by
neighboring businesses.
San Francisco and West Hollywood
generally follow a two phase
approach, wherein applicants submit
their parklet proposal and preliminary
materials. Then, when notified by
the city, applicants proceed to pay
fees and move forward with design
development and permitting.
Culver City and Long Beach appear
to require all application materials to
be submitted at once. Long Beach,
in some cases requires and in other
cases encourages, applicants to have
a pre-submittal meeting.
Some cities require additional
application materials. For example,
Culver City requires a traffic control
plan, as well as detailed construction
drawings within its application
materials. West Hollywood and San
Francisco require an initial budget
and maintenance plan.
Timing for the application and
review process varies among the
peer cities with a minimum of 4 - 6
weeks. Culver City has a maximum
processing time of 12 weeks, and
San Francisco has the longest
processing time of up to 6 months.
In all cases, timing is dependent on
what is submitted, how complete the
application is, and how complex the
parklet / location is.
Noticing and Outreach
The peer cities utilize two options
regarding noticing and outreach.
They either require buy-in / support
from adjacent property owners or
they require that adjacent property
owners are informed or aware of the
parklet.
Culver City requires applicants to
submit a parklet petition, signed
and approved by 100% of the
adjacent property owners and
businesses. West Hollywood requires
applicants to submit a minimum
of 3 letters of support signed by the
adjacent building property owner,
neighborhood organizations, nearby
businesses, nearby property owners,
or nearby residents. San Francisco
also requires documentation from
community meetings held to discuss
the addition of a parklet.
Application
Components
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 8 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Fees Application fee:
$750
Annual fee: $13/SF
Other fees:
Culver City sewer
fee: $339/dining
seat.
Parking meter fee:
$1000/space (only
charged in years
2-5, 1st year waived
and only applies
to parklets using
currently metered
space).
Tech surcharge fee:
$32.
Recurring fees can
be paid annually,
bi-annually, or
monthly.
Deposit: $2,000.
No specifics
provided from City.
Fees are established
by the Department
of Public Works and
may change on an
annual basis.
Application
fee: $1,375,
including 3%
surcharge and
inspection fees
Renewal fee:
$760, including
3% surcharge
and inspection
fees
All permit fees are waived until 3/31/23. License
fees are waived for the first 2 yrs for existing
holders.
Application fee: Unknown.
Annual fee: Dependent on business gross receipts
and parklet type:
For businesses with $2m+ gross receipts:
Public Parklet: $1,000 for the first parking space
and $250 for each additional parking space. Annual
license fee $100/parking space.
Movable Commercial Parklets: $2,000 for the first
parking space and $1,000 for each additional.
Annual license fee $1,500/parking space.
Fixed Commercial Parklets: $3,000 for the first
parking space and $1,500 for each additional.
Annual license fee $2,000/parking space.
Businesses with less than $2m gross receipts:
1/2 fee waiver (cuts cost in 1/2).
Fees
Fees vary from city to city and are
described below. One average
size parking space, would cost the
following annually in each peer city:
» Culver City:$2,080
» Long Beach: $1,375
» San Francisco: $2,000 (for large
businesses) or $1,000 (for small
businesses)
It is important to note, that these
numbers only include annual fees,
not one time fees.
As a comparison, under Santa
Monica's current outdoor dining fee
structure ($2/SF/month), outdoor
dining that takes up the same size
(160SF) would cost: $3,840 annually.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 9 Insurance
Every city requires that the parklet
applicant have insurance. The
insurance policies typically are $1M.
Change of Ownership
Half of the peer cities studied allow
change of ownership or transfer of
permits. West Hollywood requires
that the parklet owner either transfer
the Encroachment Permit to the
new sponsor or remove the parklet.
Parklet owners are to contact the
city to transfer the parklet. West
Hollywood does not state if a transfer
fee is required. San Francisco requires
the parklet owner to submit a signed
letter to Public Works stating that
both parties agree to a transfer in
permit. The new parklet sponsor also
needs to provide specific credentials,
such as business certificate,
certificate of insurance, a completed
parklet application, and pay an
associated fee.
Renewals
Parklets are typically renewed
annually upon the payment of
associated fees and renewal of
insurance certificates. Some
cities renewed the parklet permit
automatically. Permit renewals were
sometimes accompanied by annual
inspections. Annual fees are as
described on the previous page.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 10 Logistics & Other
Information
Permit Types
Culver City uses a Parklet Street
Use Permit, West Hollywood uses
an Encroachment Permit, Long
Beach requires a Public Walkways
Occupancy Permit, Local Coastal
Development Permit (if relevant), and
a Temporary Occupancy Permit (if the
parklet is present for 30 days or less),
and San Francisco uses a Shared
Spaces Permit.
Decommissioning Parklets &
Revocation
All of the peer cities require the
applicant to remove the parklet and
pay all associated costs for removal.
If a security deposit was provided,
then the deposit would be used to
repair any damage caused by the
parklet. Only Culver City clearly states
that they require applicants to pay a
$2,000 deposit. The peer cities do
not specify what the removal costs
are. In regards to revocation, all of
the cities retained the right to remove
a parklet at any time.
Non-Conforming Parklets
San Francisco continually monitors
parklets for compliance with public
access requirements and regulations
set in the parklet manual. It appears
that for all peer cities when a nonconforming parklet is reported, the city will send an inspector to the
parklet to document and report any
inconsistencies. As long as these
inconsistencies are corrected by
the parklet sponsor, the parklet can
remain. As an example, permitees
have 15 days in Long Beach to
remedy any citations. San Francisco
has reported the presence of nonconforming and abandoned parklets within their program, but did not
go into detail as to how they were
dealing with them.
Storage & Maintenance
The only city in this study that
appears to have specific regulations
for storage is West Hollywood, which
regulates that the parklet must store
and lock movable furniture every
night. Culver City, Long Beach, and
San Francisco have no clearly stated
rules on storage. All peer cities,
however, require applicants to submit
a maintenance plan or agreement.
Coastal Commission
Long Beach and San Francisco are the
only peer cities that require a Coastal
Development Permit, because they
are under Coastal Commission
jurisdiction. Long Beach requires an
additional fee and a Local Coastal
Development Permit within the
application. San Francisco did not
have a specific Coastal Commission
process, however the San Fransisco
Port completes their own review for
applications on Port property.
Equity
Equity considerations differ by peer
city. Some equity considerations that
are incorporated include waiving
the first year metered parking rental
fee, or providing a grant program to
reimburse businesses.
Administration
The Public Works Department
is typically assigned to oversee
the progress and construction of
parklets. Sometimes a specific official
from the Public Works department
was assigned to oversee parklet
applications. Each city worked in
conjunction with multiple other city
departments to insure the success of
their parklets.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 11 Detailed
Matrix of
Findings
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 11 Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 12 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Age of Program 1 year 1 year 5 years 9 years. Oldest program in US.
Eligible Applicants Restaurants, retailers
other businesses.
Property owners,
business owners, nonprofit and community
organizations.
Businesses Businesses and organizations.
Permanent/Pilot Permanent Permanent program
is forthcoming.
Currently Out Zones is
temporary.
Permanent Permanent
Agreement/Permit Permit Permit Permit Permit and short agreement.
Insurance $2MM $1MM/$2MM
aggregate
$1MM $1MM
Replace Meter
Revenue?
Yes - Parking meter fee
charged
No No
City Grants to
Subsidize?
No $25K No, but charges are based on business revenue of permit holders.
Fees Application fee: $750
Annual fee: $13/SF
Other fees: Culver City
sewer fee: $339/dining
seat.
Parking meter fee:
$1000/space (only
charged in years 2-5,
1st year waived and
only applies to parklets
using currently metered
space).
Tech Surcharge Fee:
$32.
Recurring fees can
be paid annually, biannually, or monthly.
Deposit: $2,000.
No specifics provided
from City. Fees are
established by the
Department of Public
Works and may
change on an annual
basis.
No
No
Application fee:
$1,375 + 3% surcharge
+ inspection
Renewal fee: $760
+ 3% surcharge
+ inspection
All permit fees are waived until 3/31/23. License
fees are waived for the first 2 yrs for existing
holders.
Application fee: Unknown.
Annual fee: Dependent on business gross receipts
and parklet type:
For businesses with $2m+ gross receipts:
Public Parklet: $1,000 for the first parking space
and $250 for each additional parking space. Annual
license fee $100/parking space.
Movable Commercial Parklets: $2,000 for the first
parking space and $1,000 for each additional.
Annual license fee $1,500/parking space.
Fixed Commercial Parklets: $3,000 for the first
parking space and $1,500 for each additional.
Annual license fee $2,000/parking space.
Businesses with less than $2m gross receipts:
1/2 fee waiver (cuts cost in 1/2).
Permit Type &
Length
Parklet Street Use
Permit. If the annual
license fee is paid each
year, the parklet permit
will not expire.
Encroachment Permit,
1 year renewal.
Public Walkways
Occupancy Permit (page
51), 1 year renewal.
If applicable: Local
Coastal Development
Permit; Temporary
Occupancy Permit.
Shared Spaces Permit
1 year renewal.
Detailed Findings - Program Basics
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 13 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Application
Components
Overview
- Form
- Conceptual plan
- Images of installation
- Location map
- Signed petition
- Traffic control plan
- Summary of intended use
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Materials & furnishing
- Parklet proposal form
- Project description
- Photos of existing site
- Initial site plan/conceptual
rendering
- Preliminary budget and
Maintenance Plan
- Proof of community support
- Proof of notification
- Application
- Owner/project info
- Mapping/survey
- Contractor info
- Temporary occupancy
permit (if needed)
- Site plan
- Seating & equipment
- Details, photos
- Renderings
- Installation & Maintenance
Agreement
- Liquor license
- Removal cost estimate
- Letter of approval from
building owner / HOA
- Traffic control drawings
- Contact & Site Information
- Initial Site Plan
- Photographs of Existing Site
- Project Narrative
- Proof of Consent
- Neighborhood Outreach
- Maintenance Plan
- Funding Strategy &
Estimated Budget
Other Applicant
Responsibilities
"Additional Steps and
Requirements:
- Certificate of Insurance
- Culver City Business License
- License Agreement
- Additional measures may
be required of applicant
businesses depending on
case-by-case circumstances."
N/A N/A N/A
Application
Process
"Applicant submits pre
application materials, adheres
to the Application process
and takes the additional steps
and requirements.
Once all the above has been
done, the Culver City Public
Works Dept will contact the
Applicant about approval."
"Applicant submits a parklet
proposal. Parklet is selected.
Applicant submits design and
development documents.
Applicant Review City
comments. Permit approval.
Install Parklet."
Pre- Plan Check meeting
(required in some cases),
submit application, plan
check, receive permit,
construction, inspection,
renewals, maintenance.
"1. Prepare a Parklet
Proposal. 2. Proposal review,
selection and noticing (5
weeks, minimum). 3. Design
Development and Permitting
(6 months maximum). 4.
Fabrication and Installation (3
months maximum)."
Site Plan Yes Yes. Note that City preformed
the survey/incurred survey
costs for the applicant.
Yes Yes
Outreach Applicants must submit a
Parklet Petition, signed and
approved by 100% of the
adjacent property owners
and business owners that
are located on the same side
of the street within 100’ of
both sides of the proposed
parking space(s) or to the
end of the block (whichever
is less).
"Proof of community support:
A minimum of 3 letters of
support are required for the
initial application. Adjacent
building property owner
(required if not the property
owner). Neighborhood
organizations. Nearby
businesses. Nearby property
owners. Nearby residents.
Applicants must provide written
documentation that businesses/
property owner in front of the
proposed parklet and at least
five businesses within the block
and the block across the street
have been notified."
The Public Works department
encourages speaking with
neighbors
"Notification of or letters
of support from local
neighborhood groups,
merchant’s association, BID
or CBD. Notification of or
letters of support from local
institutions, other adjacent
organizations, residents, and
business owners. Signed
petitions. Documentation of
community meeting(s) held to
discuss the Parklet proposal."
Detailed Findings - Process (1 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 14 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Design
Development
"Applicants must create
and submit the following
exhibits with their
completed application
form: Exhibit A: Site plan
depicting the items listed
above, with dimensions of
the parklet area.
Exhibit B: Photographs
of manufacturers’ cut
sheets depicting any
physical barriers, design,
planters, bollards, lighting,
speakers, wheel stops,
etc., which will be used in
the parklet area.
Exhibit C: Photographs of
the furniture that will be
used in the parklet area.
Exhibit D: Front, left
and right-side detailed
elevation drawings
depicting placement of
the items listed above
including the parklet
platform, wheel stops,
bollards, planters, seating,
lighting, speakers and
furniture placement,
elevations including
dimensions."
"Assemble a Project Team.
A design team will turn the
initial concept and preliminary
drawings into detailed
architectural drawings.
Construction team: will take
the design team’s renderings
and turn them into reality.
This team should be familiar
with interpreting detailed
construction documents
and know how to secure
materials and construct with
them."
The applicant is expected to
read through the Long Beach
Parklet manual and design
their own project according
to the design rules and
guidelines given within the
manual.
"You must submit your first set of
design drawings within 60 days
of completing the public noticing
process."
"Design Development with SF
Planning: Assigned to an SF
Planning contact. SF Planning
will forward your vetted plans to
SFMTA and Public Works for their
review."
Timeline Note from City:
"Provided the applicant
is responsive to desired
changes needed after
their initial application
submittal, I estimate the
time frame to obtain a
permit would be 6-12
weeks."
Timeline varies as the City's
program is temporary at this
time. City is transitioning to
permanent program (crafting
design guidelines & standards).
They expect that there will be
different timelines base on the
complexity of what people are
submitting.
From start to finish can take
anywhere from 4-6 weeks.
"Review time frames provided are
estimates and may vary depending on
volume of proposals and parklets in
design review."
Proposal review, selection and
noticing: 5 weeks, minimum. Design
Development and Permitting: 6
months maximum.
Note from City: "If everything
submitted is complete, the entire
review process through SFMTA and
PW can take a few business days.
This very rarely occurs, consequently,
some plan check processes may
take months (e.g. neighbor consent,
revisions to site plan, etc). There is
also a public noticing process which is
10 days and could lead to a hearing if
contested."
Detailed Findings - Process (2 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 15 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Issuing
Department
Public Works Department Public Works for parklets in the public right-of-way. Planning
department for parklets in
private parking lots.
Public Works Department Public Works Department
Construction "Parklet construction plans
should be prepared by a
licensed architect or engineer,
with experience preparing site
plans, elevations, perspective
views, and section drawings.
Construction drawings must
be submitted for the seating
deck so that the City can
review the structural base for
the Parklet. The construction
drawings and site plan must
include details that depict the
seating deck and material, floor
supports, stormwater drainage,
accessibility provisions, etc.
The construction drawings
and site plan shall include all
features located within 100
feet of the proposed parklet,
and at a minimum contain the
following: 1. Parklet dimensions,
including the requested parking
space(s) setback dimensions
from adjacent parking spaces...
2. Width of the adjacent
sidewalk. 3. Name and address
of the immediately adjacent
businesses. 4. Distance to
the nearest crosswalk and
intersection. 5. Depiction of
above-ground street fixtures
located within 20 feet of the
parklet area... 6. At-grade
roadway markings... 7. At-grade
utilities... 8. Street addresses
for parking space... 9. Tables,
chairs, planter boxes, and other
furnishings. 10. Total number of
metered parking spaces and
total number of seats and a
tabulation of the total square
footage within the parklet. 11.
Photographs...
12. Elevations..."
"Applicant needs to upgrade
the conceptual design drawings
to a technical level for final
review and approval by the City.
The City will review this last
set of drawings in detail to
make sure that the parklet will
look and function as intended
throughout its life in the public
right of way. Requirements:
- Location and context plan
- Accessibility plan
- Detailed site plan
- Elevations
- Section diagrams
- Construction details
- Perspective renderings
- Itemized project cost"
Notes from City for construction
and maintenance: "Consider
utility access under the parklet.
In one case they had loop
detectors under the k rail of a
parklet and it was really hard to
access it."
"Consider requiring cleaning
after a certain amount of time
and consider repaving needs of
the City."
"Also consider securing the
spaces. This is very important
and make sure they do not
become places for unhoused
individuals to sleep or set up."
There are no clear guidance
or requirements in the
City's Manual relating to
construction.
San Francisco includes Typical
Structure Construction drawings
to show framing in plan view
and section view. There are no
clear guidance or requirements
in the City's Manual relating to
construction.
Detailed Findings - Process (3 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 16 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Administration
& City Staffing
(See 'Who Else is
Involved', Below)
The Engineering
Services division of
the Public Works
Department takes the
lead to process and
route the applications
received to necessary
departments.
Public Works leads this process
if the parklet is on the street,
the Planning department leads
the process if parklet is in a
parking lot.
"The initial application
is e-mailed to our Permit
Technicians (general inbox),
who will review and deem
the application complete/
incomplete. Once deemed
complete, the Permit
Technician will assign the
project to an Engineering
Technician, who will perform
a pre-review of the plans.
Once the plans are deemed
routable, the Engineering
Technician will routed to all
stakeholders for approval."
"At this time, staff from the Parking
& Curb Management team oversee
the program development and
application review for the SFMTA.
We will soon be hiring new staff who
will be assigned to this program so
that existing staff can return to their
previous roles."
Proposal Review
Details
After submission, a
city staff member will
contact the applicant
to discuss their
application.
The proposal will be reviewed
by the Parklet Committee,
consisting of staff from the
Departments of Community
Development, Public Works,
Public Safety, and
Economic Development
Art work - may require
additional review by the
City’s Arts Division.
The proposal is reviewed by
the Public Works department.
"The following may be
conducted under a single
review:
- Environmental Review if
necessary ( provided after
application submittal)
- Right of Way Occupancy
Excavation - review may be
required if Parklet meets
certain circumstances
- Right of Way / Park
Improvements ( if rightof-way improvements are
included)"
Proposal Review & Selection
(4 weeks)
An interagency team from SF
Planning, SFMTA, and Public Works
reviews proposals.
Who Else Is
Involved?
Depends on what
is contained in the
parklet and where it is
located. In addition to
Engineering Services:
Fire Marshal
Planning Division
Building Safety
Cultural Affairs
Coordinator (if
its location is near
historical landmarks).
Departments of Community
Development
Department of Public Works
Department of Public Safety
Department of Economic
Development
City's Art Division
LB Water
City Managers Office
PW Traffic Operations
City Engineer
LB Energy and Resource
Department
Development Services
Planning Department
PW Inspections Team
LB Police Department
Environmental Health
Assistant City Engineer
PW Special Projects Officer
PW Civil Engineer
PW Traffic Engineer
San Francisco Planning Department
San Francisco Municipal
Transportation Agency
Department of Public Health
Public Works
Fire Department
Office of Disability
Digital Services (IT)
Detailed Findings - Process (4 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 17 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Renewals The Parklet Street
Use Permit and
License Agreement
will automatically
be renewed upon
payment of the annual
license fee, including
the metered parking
fee (when applicable)
and submittal of a
renewed certificate of
insurance.
"Encroachment Permit must be
renewed once a year. The City
will send applicants a renewal
notice and invoice prior to the
anniversary date of the permit."
"Applicants will need to make
sure the liability insurance
policy is up to date prior to the
renewal of the permit."
"Permits must be renewed
per your agreement...
Insurance must be kept
current throughout the
permit period. There are two
classes of renewals: minor
and major. A minor renewal
is a streamlined process
when there are no changes
in permit area. For example,
a permit area that is not
changing includes changes
in equipment or furnishings
only. A major change includes
a modification to the permit
area or substantial equipment
modifications."
Public Works renews parklet
permits every February (Public
Works will prorate permit fee for the
first year, and bill for the full fee each
year after that).
"If significant public concern is
expressed about the installation or
stewardship of your parklet, Public
Works may conduct a public hearing
before a Public Works Hearing
Officer to determine if your parklet
permit should be renewed."
Inspections,
Monitoring, &
Compliance
"An inspector will visit the
parklet around the time of
permit renewal and will work
with the applicant to ensure
that any maintenance, safety, or
accessibility issues get resolved.
Inspections are conducted
annually and/or at the time
of renewals.
"Unless otherwise stipulated
on the permit, a single
inspection is required at
the end of the project.
The contractor shall be
responsible for calling the
inspector a minimum of 48
hours prior to the requested
inspection date to schedule
the inspection."
"SF Planning and Public Works will
monitor the parklet for compliance
with public access requirements
and the Parklet Maintenance
Agreement."
Coastal
Commission
Process & Timing
If the parklet site is in the
Coastal Zone, additional fee
and permit applies.
Applicant must submit a
Local Coastal Development
Permit (LCDP) application.
The project requires a Zoning
Administrator Hearing and
Appeal period.
Handbook includes a map of
the Coastal Zone subareas
(page 11).
"We don’t have a separate process
although SF Port does their own
review for applications on Port
property, largely in the Embarcadero
corridor."
Detailed Findings - Process (5 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 18 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Maintenance
Requirements
Requires a
Maintenance Plan.
"Keep the Parklet free
from debris, grime,
and graffiti. Ensure any
plants remain in good
health and do not grow
in a manner that would
obstruct visibility of the
adjacent travel lane
and/or intersections.
Sweep the sidewalk
and roadway
area immediately
surrounding the parklet
and keep it litter-free
as City street sweepers
are unable to do so.
Any area beneath a
parklet platform shall
be cleaned and rinsed
out at least once a
month."
Applicants must also submit a
detailed Maintenance Plan.
Applicants are required to
manage all upkeep of a parklet.
"Clean the parklet and the
surrounding area on a daily
basis. Tend to landscaping. Clear
the drainage channel. Stow or
lock movable furniture every
night. Repair any damage to the
parklet."
"The permittee is required to
maintain the permit area and
ensure cleanliness and safety
at all time. The permittee
is required to remedy any
citations within 15 days."
"Parklet sponsors are required to
develop and submit a maintenance
plan for keeping the parklet safe,
free of debris, grime, and graffiti,
and to keep all plants in good health.
Parklet sponsors are required to
sweep the area surrounding the
parklet and keep it litter-free."
Storage
Requirements
" The City has no
requirements regarding
storage of parklet
furniture so I imagine
the owner would likely
chain it all together
at night and place a
padlock on the chain,
or alternatively, take
all the furniture inside
the restaurant each
night and then put it
back out each day as
part of their ongoing
operation"
"Seating can be removed and
stored at the end of the day or
locked with cables to the
parklet structure - must store
and lock movable furniture
every night. Places have to
be secured due to Homeless
individuals."
"The applicant has the choice
of having stationary furniture
(bolted to the platform, not
the right-of-way) or having
loose furniture. All furniture
must be contained withing a
barricade and the barricade
must have a minimum of one
36” opening."
"Parklets should be designed for
easy removal and storage
in case of emergency or
required roadwork."
Decommissioning
Parklets
"Applicant is
responsible for
removing the parklet
and all related
elements. Applicant
is responsible for
restoring the public
right of way."
"Applicant is responsible for
all costs associated with the
disassembly and removal of the
parklet. For more information
on removal, see Chapter 11.29
of the West Hollywood
Municipal Code."
"When a business vacates an
area they should notify Public
Works, who will inspect
the area and determine if
additional work is needed
to return the area to like
new condition (i.e. remove
fixtures, patch sidewalk, etc.)
The security deposit on file
will be utilized to make such
remedies."
"Applicants are responsible for
notifying Public Works and removing
it at their own expense. Removal
requires an additional permit from
Public Works."
Detailed Findings - Process (6 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 19 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Are permits
transferable?
/ Change of
Ownership
Permits are nontransferable.Yes. If a business
changes ownership
or the neighborhood
group dissolves,
applicants may
choose to either
transfer the
Encroachment Permit
to a new host or
remove the parklet.
No, however, in some cases, Public
Works may authorize the permitted
area to remain in place while the new
business pursues a new permit. If the
building owner is the permittee, as long
as the building owner keeps the permit
in good standing, the permit remains
valid even through a change of business
operating within the space.
Yes. "Submit to Public Works a letter
signed by both you and the new
parklet sponsor agreeing to the
transfer. Additionally, the new parklet
sponsor must submit:
- A signed Parklet Host Agreement
Form
- A copy of their business certificate
- A copy of their certificate of
Insurance for general
liability
- Completed Parklet Permit
Application and the
associated fee
- Completed Parklet Permit
Application and the
associated fee"
Nonconforming
Parklets
"As a new program,
the City has yet to
experience the illegal
installation of nonconforming parklets.
We did have one
temporary parklet that
was installed during
the pandemic in which
they “carpeted” the
adjacent sidewalk
creating a private
“room” feel. Upon
discovery, we told
them to remove the
carpet as it does not
weather well and over
time, will likely loosen
and create a trip
hazard to users of the
sidewalk."
"During the
pandemic, everyone
did what ever they
wanted. Now we have
to tell people they
may have constructed
something that they
need permits for."
Out Zones were
preciously allowed
in front of vacant
buildings. But City
has removed that
allowance since it
caused problems for
them.
"Yes, we’ve had a few businesses who
have occupied the right-of-way without
a permit. When this is reported,
we send one of our Public Works
Inspector’s to investigate. The right-ofway is assessed by our Inspection Team for hazards. All hazards are immediately
corrected and the process is explained
to the business. We work with the
business to either issue a PWOP or
explain why one can’t be granted."
"Nonconforming parklets can continue
in the current Public Walkways
Occupancy Permit providing the permit
is kept in good standing. Renewal
applications for nonconforming uses
will be accepted up to January 1, 2021.
Renewal permits for nonconforming
uses will not be issued after January 1,
2022. All nonconforming permit areas
must be vacated by January 1, 2023."
"Yes. We have illegal/non-permitted
parklets and abandoned parklets."
Overview Diagram
or "Cheat Sheet"
Available for
Applicants?
Yes. Example site
diagram provided.
Yes. Example site
diagram provided - pg
18 -19 of the Manual.
Yes, page 6-7 of Handbook. Yes.
Equity
Considerations
The City will waive the
first-year of metered
parking space rental
fees entirely (where
applicable).
Do not have any
equity considerations.
Do not have any equity considerations. "They are currently free and will have a tiered price in the legislated
program depending on the type
(private, public, movable). To
address equity considerations, we
have a grant program to reimburse
participating businesses"
Detailed Findings - Process (7 of 7)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 20 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Speed Limit 25 mph or less. 35mph or less. Streets greater than 25mph require CUP and
addt’l setback.
25 mph or less. 25mph or less. If greater speed,
considered case by case.
Curb
Considerations
Parklets may not be
placed within a blue,
green, red, yellow, or
white painted curb.
Each parklet requires
a platform that is flush
with the curb. The
frame should not be
permanently attached
to the street, curb or
adjacent planting strip.
Pin bolts may be used
to attach the parklet
to the curb and street
below.
No blue, green, red, yellow or
white zones
Parklet Base - This frame should
not be permanently attached
to the street, curb, or adjacent
planting strip. The parklet must
be designed to allow rainwater
to flow along the curb without
obstructions.
A maximum horizontal gap of ½
inch between the curb and the
deck is allowed.
Cannot interfere with other
curb uses. Hydrant, bus stop,
loading/taxi zones, disable
parking, other designated
zones. No parklet in red
zones.
Can be located next to a driveway
(with 2’ buffer). Cannot move a
disable space. Can move yellow,
white or green zones or motorcycle
parking.
Distance From
Intersection
20' from an
intersection with a
crossing road
45 degree sight triangle. 20 feet (1 parking space away).
Utilities Not permitted in front
of, or within 15 feet
of a fire hydrant or
over a fire hydrant
shut-off valve.
Parklets constructed
with irremovable
materials may not be
constructed over any
utility access covers.
Parklets may not be
built over existing utility
access points unless
the utility agrees, in
writing, that creation
of a hinged door on
the platform to access
them is acceptable.
Can’t block utility covers or
equipment. Allow gutter flow
maintenance. Allow for curb/
gutter cleaning. Provides access
to and/or avoids utility covers/
manholes.
"City has been flexible about
allowing people to cover
utility covers. On a permanent
business, utilities shouldn't be
obstructed"
Can’t block utility covers or
equipment. Excavation may require
removal. Parklets may sit atop buried
infrastructure and utilities such as
gas lines, sewer and water mains.
Parklets should be designed for
easy removal and storage in case of
emergency or required roadwork.
Detailed Findings - Site Location & Criteria (1 of 3)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 21 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Slope Platforms cannot
exceed 2% cross
slopes.
Maximum slope
as required for ADA compliance
or wheelchair accessibility.
Maximum slope
as required for ADA
compliance or wheelchair
accessibility.
5% slope or less 2% max cross
slope.
Trees & Plantings Raised planters no less
than 24" high and 12"
deep can be used as a
positive edge.
Dense plantings that
visually enclose the
space and discourage
pass through are
permitted.
Landscape elements can
include planter boxes, hanging
planters, green walls, or ADAaccessible raised beds.
"Any landscaping in planters,
pots, or window boxes
should be well-maintained
and kept free of litter and
debris. Continuous plantings
of a dense nature should
be avoided. Provide regular
openings in plant material to
maintain visibility. Street trees
shall not be removed unless
the tree is diseased or dying."
"Native plants, plants that provide
habitat, and drought-tolerant
plants are encouraged. You can
see a list of recommended species
for your proposed
location at sfplantfinder.org."
Structures
Allowed?
Yes. But must follow
the below guidelines:
"Parklet walls can not
be higher than 36"
above the ground.
Narrow support pillars
or posts may be built
above 36" to support
a roof or to mount
lighting fixtures, lighting
strings, or speakers.
Roof can not be lower
than 7½ ft. Roof must
sustain a minimum wind
speed of 110 mph.
The height may be
increased with clear
plexiglass or other
material that does not
obstruct visibility."
"The vertical elements must be
able to withstand a minimum of
500lbs of horizontal force. This
edge helps to increase visibility
for road users and must be a
minimum of 36" and a maximum
of 72" tall, as measured from
the top of the parklet base If
located at a corner, opaque
vertical elements must allow
views through the parklet and
may not exceed 36" height.
The parklet base should be
a freestanding structural
foundation that rests on the
street surface. Concrete bases
are encouraged so long as the
applicant can ensure that the
concrete will not bind to the
street. The weight of the deck
should be less than 200 pounds
per square foot.
Yes. "Shade structures shall
be ground mounted and
shall not be attached to the
building. Shade structures
shall be between 7 and 10
feet in height and shall not
extend past the barrier."
"The minimum vertical clearance
for an overhead structure within
the parklet’s footprint (e.g. a
pergola) is 84" above platform
grade A structural engineer
may be required to stamp
your drawings if your proposal
includes an overhead structure.
When located near intersections
(including STOP controlled
intersections), overhead structures
are required to meet SFMTA’s
visibility standards. Overhead
elements that span the sidewalk
and connect the parklet to the
adjacent building façade are
generally not permitted but may
be considered on a case-by-case
basis."
Detailed Findings - Site Location & Criteria (2 of 3)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 22 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Bike Lane
Requirements
Parklet must have a
1' buffer adjacent to
existing bike lane.
N
Other Siting
Criteria
No No No No
Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Template
Provided?
No No No No
Design Guidelines
Provided?
Yes Yes Yes Yes
Min Length 1 parking space. 1 parking space. Official length not written in manual. Removal of existing
parking is allowed providing
that the proposed parklet
does not cause more than
10% of available parking
spaces within a 2 block radius
to be occupied.
1 parking space.
Width 6' 8' "The Parklet may not extend
beyond 7' from
the curb line where there is
parallel parking,
or 15' from the curb line
where there is
diagonal parking."
6'
Detailed Findings - Site Location & Criteria (3 of 3)
Detailed Findings - Parklet Design (1 of 2)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.
Santa Monica Parklet Program - Peer Cities Parklet Research 23 Topic Culver City West Hollywood Long Beach San Francisco Max Length 3 parking spaces:
52' parklet.
3 parking spaces. No max, but more than 2 spaces
require more review.
Width & Travel Lane
Buffer
Minimum 12” from
an adjacent bike lane
or auto traffic lane is
required.
8' measured from curb. Could
extend on sidewalk if 4’
through-zone is maintained. 1'
buffer along roadway. 2' buffer
on streets greater than 25mph.
7 '. 12" buffer from traffic or
bike lane.
"A 4 ft inner buffer is required
when adjacent to another parallel
parking space (2 ft when adjacent
to a driveway, motorcycle/scooter
parking, or a bicycle corral)."
End Buffer/Wheel
Stop
"Parklets within parallel
parking spaces: 4 ft
concrete, rubber, or
metal wheel stop shall
be installed at least 1'
from the curb at the 4'
edge of each perimeter
parking space."
4' on both ends. Wheel stops,
yes. Bike racks and other
amenities encouraged.
"To ensure visibility to moving
traffic and parking cars,
parklets shall be buffered
using a wheel stop or similar
protective deterrent located
a minimum of 24" from the
parklet." 4' buffer from
adjacent parking spaces.
4' on both ends. Wheel stops, yes.
Encouraged to use that space for
bikes or planters.
Vertical Edge at
Street
Yes. Yes. Continuous edge at least
36" tall, and max of 72".
Yes. Maximum of 36" tall.
Supports for shade structures
permitted up to 7 ' tall
Lower speed streets do not require.
"Depending on the location, the
parklet should have an edge as a
buffer from the street. This can take
the form of planters, railing,
cabling, or some other appropriate
enclosure. The height and scale of
the buffer required will vary
depending on local context."
Signage No. Only a sandwich
board is permitted.
Yes. "Two 12” by 12” signs
indicating “Open to the Public”
in large lettering. These signs
should be mounted to both
ends. Acknowledgment for
sponsorship, sponsor logos
(if a business), or designs
that “brand” the parklet
can be integrated, but
not overshadow the sign.
Commercial/ advertising
signage is not allowed under
any circumstances."
No - Advertising is not
permitted.
No - Advertising is not permitted.
ADA Yes Yes. City recommends that
ADA requirements for adjacent
sidewalks should be exceeded.
48" is insufficient since people
crowd around parklets.
Yes. City requires that
all parklets that occur in
the public right- of- ways
adhere to comply with the
Americans with Disabilities
Act.
Yes. City requires an accessibility plan
that shows how a parklet meets the
required ADA Accessibility standards.
Terraced parklets require a wheel
chair accessible entry.
Detailed Findings - Parklet Design (2 of 2)
Quoted text (from emails received or from Parklet Policy documents) is italicized.