If you’re a homeowner and thinking about sprucing up the front of your yard, watch this video to learn about what’s allowed by the City and County of San Francisco.
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Are you thinking about sprucing up the front of your house? Great!
To help with your home project, here are a few tips from the San Francisco Planning Department about what you need to know:
Landscaping increases the curb appeal and value of your home and neighborhood.
So, if you are thinking about sprucing up the front of your home, please keep in mind that 20% of your front yard must be devoted to plant materials, and in some instances, half of your front yard may need to be permeable.
A permeable surface is one that absorbs water so that it does not run off into a storm drain.
Some examples of permeable surfaces are:
• in-ground planters,
• porous asphalt or concrete, or
• loosely set paving or brick work.
With these rules in mind, please understand that paving or repaving over your entire front yard is not permitted.
Your project may require a permit from the Department of Public Works, so be sure to check in with them.
Detailed information about Green Landscaping can be found on our website, under ‘Department Publications’.
This video highlights just a few city by-laws that could affect your project. For more information visit our website, or stop by our Planning Information Center, we’d be happy to help!