Q. How long will it take for my application to be permitted?  

• It depends on the type of project, the completeness of the application and the number of applications that are currently in our system. 

• There is dedicated Love Our Neighborhoods staff to help you with this process; please contact LoveOurNeighborhoods@sfdpw.org. 

 

 Q. Who is responsible for maintaining the project after it is built or installed? 

• The permit holder is solely responsible for the maintenance of the project. For more information, see the application guidelines for your particular project. 

 

Q. Do I need to get approval from my neighbors to install a Love Our Neighborhoods project?  

• You do not need approval from your neighbors to install most Love Our Neighborhoods projects.  

• However, you do need to provide notices to neighbors near the project site for murals as well as all Tier 3 projects.  

• For Tier 3 projects to be fully approved, a public hearing must be held to discuss the project. Public Works will schedule the hearing. 

• If a project uses private power or property resources, you will need approval from the owner of that property. 

  • For example, if you want to hang string lights along your block and plan on using a privately-owned building to supply power to the string, you must get the property owner’s approval before you can receive a Love Our Neighborhoods permit. 

 

Q. Do I need a licensed contractor to perform this work, or can I do it with my friends/family/community group? 

• For a little library, bench or planter, you do not need a licensed contractor. For other kinds of projects, you may need professionals, such as engineers and muralists. For more information, please refer to the webpage for the specific type of project that you wish to build.    

 

Q. Are other City departments involved in the permit process? If so, how will I know? 

• It depends on your project. During the application process, you will be notified about the other City departments that need to review and/or approve your project.  

• Also, for more information, please refer to the webpage for the specific type of project that you wish to build. 

  

Q. Will there be other fees in addition to the permit application fee listed above? 

• All Tier 2 and Tier 3 projects require an $11 Board of Appeals fee in addition to the Public Works permit application fee. 

• If there are other City departments that need to review, approve or provide permission for an application, there may be additional fees.  

 

Q. Will I be required to furnish a bond or insurance for my project? 

• This will depend on a few factors, including the type of project proposed and  the estimated construction costs.  Once your application is submitted, we will be better able to assess any bond or insurance requirements. 

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Q: Where am I not allowed to build, create or install a Love Our Neighborhoods project?

• Love Our Neighborhoods projects cannot be located on private property, active streets or bike lanes, or in areas that are within the jurisdiction of a City department other than Public Works. If you are unsure if your proposed project is in an eligible location, please reach out to the Love Our Neighborhoods analyst by emailing LoveOurNeighborhoods@sfdpw.org.