SF Permits MCP Server

{ "source": "sf.gov DBI — Floodplain Management Requirements, Soft Story Retrofit", "source_urls": [ "https://www.sf.gov/comply-floodplain-management-requirements/", "https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-building-permit-do-soft-story-retrofit/" ], "last_verified": "2026-02-17", "description": "Floodplain compliance requirements and mandatory soft story seismic retrofit program", "floodplain": { "triggers": { "both_required": [ "Property located within FEMA FIRM Flood Hazard zone", "Project involves new construction OR costs exceed 50% of structure's market value" ], "check_method": "Property Information Map → Environmental Information tab → Flooding: FEMA FIRM Flood Hazards (Coastal)", "note": "Stormwater flood zones alone do NOT trigger requirements" }, "required_documents": { "before_permit_approval": [ "Completed Flood Hazard Zone Protection Checklist (page 5, attachment A of Info Sheet G-28)", "Checklist signed and stamped by CA-licensed engineer or architect", "Plans showing property's flood zone" ], "before_occupancy_certificate": [ "FEMA Elevation Certificate", "FEMA Flood-proofing Certificate (if using dry flood-proofing methods)" ] }, "construction_standards": "Projects must be elevated above floodwaters or flood-proofed, and must not cause physical damage to neighboring properties during flooding", "exemptions": "DBI and SF Planning may modify requirements for historic structures, water-dependent facilities, or exceptional hardships (case-by-case)", "reference": "Information Sheet G-28" }, "soft_story": { "description": "Mandatory seismic upgrade program for specific wood-frame multi-family buildings", "affected_buildings": "Wood-frame multi-family buildings on mandatory Soft Story property list", "eligibility_check": "Search DBI's Soft Story property list", "steps": [ {"step": 1, "title": "Verify eligibility", "detail": "Check if building is on mandatory Soft Story property list"}, {"step": 2, "title": "Design plans", "detail": "Hire designer/architect/engineer. Bring 2 sets."}, {"step": 3, "title": "Complete role forms", "detail": "Owner package or contractor statement"}, {"step": 4, "title": "Submit applications", "detail": "OTC permit application + Green Building forms at Permit Center"}, {"step": 5, "title": "Address plan revisions", "detail": "Update plans per plan check comments, coordinate with assigned plan checker"}, {"step": 6, "title": "Pay fees and begin work", "detail": "3-4.5% of construction cost. Get job card before starting."} ], "fees": "3-4.5% of construction cost", "tax_incentive": "Seismic retrofit may qualify for CA property tax exclusion — file claim with Assessor's Office before or within 30 days of completion", "deadline": "Original deadline was September 15, 2021", "professional_required": true } }