San Francisco is in the process of potentially increasing its number of to-go cocktail-serving “entertainment zones.” Currently, there are five zones either in operation or being proposed, but Mayor Daniel Lurie, alongside city supervisors, is advocating for the addition of five more. This initiative aims to boost lively street parties during events when traffic is halted.

Background and Legislative Progress

This move follows the passage of state Senator Scott Wiener’s legislation in January 2024, which advocated for the sale of to-go alcoholic beverages from local establishments. Often referred to as a measure for “entertainment zones,” it mainly focuses on allowing bars and restaurants to sell take-away alcohol, rather than enhancing actual entertainment offerings. Since then, zones have been established in popular areas such as Front Street in the Financial District, outside the Chase Center, and throughout Cole Valley.

New Proposed Zones

In addition to the existing zones, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman has suggested creating a new entertainment zone in the Castro area, while Supervisor Stephen Sherrill has proposed one for Union Street. However, Mayor Lurie and supervisors Matt Dorsey, Jackie Fielder, and Danny Sauter are collectively aiming to introduce five additional zones:

• Valencia Street (between 16th and 21st Streets)
• Pier 39
• Ellis Street (between Stockton and Powell Streets)
• Folsom Street (between Seventh and Eighth Streets)
• Yerba Buena Lane and Jessie Square (between Market and Mission Streets)

Legislative Process and Timeline

The proposal for these new entertainment zones is expected to be presented at the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting. While this initial presentation does not signify immediate law enactment, it marks the beginning of a process that typically spans two months for proposals to be reviewed and voted on.

If approved, these zones could allow local bars and restaurants to sell to-go beverages during controlled events, and guests would have the privilege to enjoy drinks in designated areas where streets are closed to vehicular traffic.

Clarifying Entertainment Zones

It is crucial to differentiate entertainment zones from other local attractions, such as night markets or special monthly events like Downtown First Thursdays. While both allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages within specified areas, the key difference lies in their regulation: drinks cannot be taken beyond the event’s boundaries or into different establishments.

Business Impact and Community Perspective

The growing interest in these entertainment zones has met with minimal opposition thus far. Many local business owners, such as Dennis Leary of House of Shields, have reported an uptick in sales during these designated periods, although the next day often sees quieter business activity. This contrast highlights the temporary boost to the local economy that these zones can provide.

Conversely, concerns arise surrounding the proposal to add 20 additional liquor licenses in Union Square, where various stakeholders, including bartenders and bar owners, fear that an influx of competitors could further strain already precarious financial conditions in the area.