Limited Live Performance (LLP) permit: San Francisco restaurant guide
SF Entertainment Commission
What it is
The restaurant-friendly entertainment permit: live musicians, bands, DJs, comedy, karaoke, poetry or theater as a secondary use in a performance area of no more than 200 sq ft, indoors or outdoors, ending by 10 pm or 11 pm depending on zoning.
When a restaurant needs it
Any live performance on an ongoing basis. Not needed for pre-recorded indoor music, a single unamplified indoor performer before 10 pm, or indoor trivia/magic/music lessons.
How to apply
Submit the application with BAN, owner info, performance-area diagram with dimensions and speaker locations, liquor license, health permit and Place of Assembly permit (if 50+), meet the Deputy Director, pay the fee, post the 30-day notice and do neighbor outreach, then attend the Commission hearing.
Documents you’ll need
- Business Account Number
- Owner contact info (10%+ stakeholders)
- Performance area diagram with dimensions and speaker locations
- Liquor license (if any)
- Health permit
- Place of Assembly permit if occupancy is 50 or more
Good to know
A temporary LLP (up to 60 days) exists for pop-ups with Planning's Pop-Up Retail authorization. Outdoor performances in a parklet still need the LLP, not just the amplified-sound permit.
Official source
SF — get a Limited Live Performance permit · Entertainment Commission fees FY 2026-27
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.