Adding Garages and Curb Cuts to residential units
Garages should be designed to be inconspicuous so they do not project out from the front façade of the building; however, new garage structures in the front yard setback of steeply sloping lots or in retaining walls may be appropriate.
Would any exterior dimension of the structure be increased? If the building must be lifted to accommodate the garage, or if the proposal involves an exterior expansion, neighborhood notification may be required and the building permit application cannot be approved at the PIC. The application will be routed to a Planner for further review. If a garage is removed the curb cut must also be removed.
A garage opening should be inserted on the side or rear whenever possible. These “secondary elevations” have fewer character-defining features.
A new opening and curb cut should be no larger than necessary while still meeting the requirements of the Building Code.
All detailing, including garage doors, surrounds, and decorative features, should be compatible with the building’s architectural features without creating a false sense of history. To avoid impacts to character-defining features, the project sponsor may explore obtaining a Minor Encroachment Permit (Section 723.2 of the Public Works Code) from Public Works (SFPW). This permit allows for the extension of the driveway into the public right-of-way and can lower the height of the garage door to avoid the removal of character-defining features.
Maximize your return by calculating your property's largest ADU.
Related Articles
5 Tips to get ahead start in the construction permitting process
ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in San Francisco
All You Need to Know About Building on Properties in San Francisco City per SB-9
Environmental requirements that may apply to your property in San Francisco