Sorry, Polk St, but it looks like you won’t be turning into little Las Vegas after all. As we’ve previously reported, the growing number of bars popping up on Polk St. between O’Farrell and California St. prompted Board of Supervisors President David Chiu to propose a ban preventing additional bars from joining the party — and now the ban has passed.
Though the legislation was introduced in October, it’s undergone many changes including most recently from the Land Use and Economic Development Committee during a meeting earlier this month. Now, as the Ex reports, that ban has officially been approved.
The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously in favor of the ban, which was drafted with much support from the Lower Polk Neighbors. Though there are approximately 45 alcohol permits on the six block strip of Polk St, this legislature ensures that no additional bars will open up shop.
Existing permits are able to be transferred, though a special permit must be secured if there’s a location change. Additionally, all licenses inactive for more than a year will be invalidated.
Now that the bar ban’s been passed, Chiu and his supporters are looking towards more legislation to tighten restrictions on signage, noise levels, and anything else that may appear or sound rowdy.
