The original program for Shared Spaces initiated due to the COVID-19 pandemic allowed retail businesses and restaurants to operate in outdoor public spaces. The permit and annual license fees varied based on the type of parklet, with costs including an annual license fee of $100 per parking space for public parklets, while commercial parklets had higher fees. Businesses with gross receipts not exceeding $2,000,000 were eligible for a 50% fee reduction.

This ordinance proposes eliminating all permit fees for Curbside Shared Spaces permits approved before June 30, 2025, amending the fee waiver duration, and increasing the gross receipts threshold for the 50% reduction of the permit and annual license fee to $2,500,000.

The elimination of permit fees and adjustment of the gross receipts threshold is expected to encourage small businesses to maintain or create new parklets, which helps to expand operations, provide additional employment, and improve commercial vibrancy. It also allocates more resources to businesses for compliance with program requirements.

The Board of Supervisors finds that permit costs discourage businesses from participating in the program. The proposed changes aim to support small businesses in maintaining or constructing parklets, thus contributing to the economic and social well-being of the city.

The ordinance requires compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act and must be consistent with the city's General Plan and priority policies of the Planning Code Section 101.1, as determined by the Planning Department.

Fees are to be collected by the Tax Collector and are due and payable upon permit approval, with annual fees invoiced every March 31st. Penalties for late payment are outlined, increasing with the length of the delay, and persistent non-payment can lead to administrative action on the permit by the Department of Public Works.