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Awning or marquee permit (Planning, DBI, Fire, Public Works): San Francisco restaurant guide

SF Planning / DBI / Public Works

What it is

Awnings projecting over the sidewalk need a building permit reviewed by Planning (ground floor only, 8 ft minimum clearance, 75% storefront transparency, size limits by district), DBI, Fire (fire-escape flap if residential above) and Public Works for the encroachment.

When a restaurant needs it

Installing or replacing an awning, canopy or marquee on the storefront.

How to apply

File the awning permit in PermitSF or at the Permit Center with scaled drawings and manufacturer specs; awning poles that touch the sidewalk also need a Minor Sidewalk Encroachment Permit.

Documents you’ll need

Fee
DBI, Planning, Fire and Public Works fees apply — most are waived for new awnings and awning signs filed during the City's May awning fee-waiver month
Processing time
Days to a few weeks
Renewal
None; any change needs a new permit and removal needs a removal permit
Who files
Plans by a licensed contractor or design professional.

Good to know

In NC-1 / NCT-1 districts awnings may project and drop no more than 4 ft; a 3x3 ft punch-out is required under any fire escape. Questions: sfosb@sfgov.org or TechQ@sfgov.org.

Official source

SF — guide to awnings and signs for businesses

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.