Building Official: Patrick O'Riordan, C.B.O.
Department of Building Inspection
49 South Van Ness
Phone: (628) 652-3200
Email: dbicustomerservice@sfgov.org
Our San Francisco Dashboard
Population as of 2024
715,717
Median Age
38.7
Median Household Income
$178,742
Median Household Size
2.34
Mayor
London Breed
2018-Current
Police Chief
William “Bill” Scott
2016-Current
2016-Current
Fire Chief
Jeanine Nicholson
2019-Current
2019-Current
Famous San Franciscans
Margaret Cho
Margaret Cho is a renowned stand-up comedian, actress, and author. Born in San Francisco in 1968, her comedy often reflects her experiences growing up in the city's diverse and culturally rich environment.
Ansel Adams
Ansel Adams was a photographer known for his black-and-white landscape images of the American West, particularly Yosemite National Park. While he was not born in San Francisco, he had a significant connection to the city through his association with the Group f/64, a collective of photographers that formed in the 1930.
Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou, a renowned poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, spent a significant part of her life in San Francisco. She moved to the city in the 1940s and became involved in the city's arts and culture scene.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood is a celebrated actor, director, and producer. Born in San Francisco in 1930, he has made several iconic films set and filmed in the city.
Danny Glover
Danny Glover is an accomplished actor and political activist who has been involved in various social justice causes. He was born in San Francisco in 1946 and began his acting career in the city's theater scene.
Carlos Santana
Carlos Santana is a Mexican-American guitarist known for his pioneering blend of rock, blues, and Latin American music. While he was born in Mexico, he moved to San Francisco as a young man and became associated with its vibrant music scene.
The Heart of the Golden State
San Francisco is truly a city like no other, easily recognized by its landmarks, culture, and unique geography. Take the Golden Gate Bridge—its striking color pops against the Pacific Ocean backdrop, creating a breathtaking view at the gateway to San Francisco Bay. Then there’s Alcatraz Island, notorious for its former federal prison.
Our city is a melting pot of cultures, making each neighborhood distinctly unique. Chinatown, one of the oldest and largest in North America, bursts with life, offering an array of traditional shops and eateries. Over in the Mission District, the rich Mexican heritage and a bustling arts scene really draw you in.
San Francisco is also a foodie’s paradise. Our diverse culinary scene is famous for its fresh seafood, like clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls and tasty Dungeness crab. If you’re into artisanal bites, the Ferry Building Marketplace is the place to be. Plus, there are numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy spots to check out.
Nature lovers aren’t left out either. With the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay encircling it, our city boasts stunning natural beauty. Golden Gate Park, even bigger than Central Park in New York, is a perfect retreat from city life. It houses the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum, and a serene Japanese Tea Garden.
Not to mention, San Francisco is a global center for innovation and technology, with Silicon Valley just a short drive to the south, hosting some of the world’s top tech giants.
Getting around here is a breeze thanks to a robust public transport system that includes buses, trams, and the iconic cable cars. Our compact layout is great for walking, and there are plenty of bike-friendly routes if you want to pedal your way around.
Diamond Certified Companies Serving San Francisco
Diamond Certified Companies Serving San Francisco
Diamond Certified companies serving San Francisco are rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 20,522 reviews of 88 rated companies.
Only companies rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Performance Guaranteed.
Building Codes and Permits
San Francisco FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
A: The best time to visit San Francisco is typically during the late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and there’s less fog.
Q: Is San Francisco a pet-friendly city?
A: San Francisco is known for being a pet-friendly city. Many parks, restaurants, and accommodations welcome pets, and there are plenty of dog-friendly areas and facilities throughout the city.
Q: How is public transportation in San Francisco?
A: Public transportation in San Francisco is well-developed and convenient. The city offers an extensive network of buses, trams (Muni), cable cars, and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system that connects San Francisco to nearby cities.
Q: Is San Francisco accessible for people with disabilities?
A: San Francisco is committed to accessibility for people with disabilities. Many public buildings, transportation options, and public spaces are designed to be accessible. The city has also implemented various initiatives to improve accessibility for all residents and visitors.
Q: Is there a nightlife scene in San Francisco?
A: Yes, San Francisco has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, theaters, and restaurants offering entertainment options for night owls. The city's diverse neighborhoods cater to different tastes, from upscale lounges in the Financial District to live music venues in the Mission District.
Diamond Certified Expert Contributors
Serving Our San Francisco Area
Avi Edri
Owner, Edri Construction
Choosing Bathroom Tile
When choosing tile for a bathroom remodel, consider opting for large tiles. Large tiles mean less grout, and less grout means easier cleaning, as well as a lower potential for water intrusion issues to occur. Additionally, large tiles are aesthetically pleasing for use in bathroom walls and flooring.
Call : (415) 493-8934
Read More : dccert.org/Avi Edri
Bianca Clark
Operations Manager, Mighty Men Services, LLC
Hiring a Rodent Exclusion Company
When looking for rodent exclusion services, be wary of any company that says it can solve your rodent problem after a single day of work. Rodent exclusion isn’t a quick fix—besides cleaning and repairing the affected area, it takes weeks of subsequent monitoring to ensure the rodents don’t return.
Call : (415) 493-8934
Read More : dccert.org/Bianca Clark
Hayley Johnson
Owner, The Legacy Paver Group
Technical Aspects of Paver Installation
When planning for a paver installation, it’s easy to get preoccupied with design, but don’t neglect the technical aspects. Some factors to consider include the type of soil you’re working with, the amount of base rock that’s needed, proper grading for drainage and whether the pavers should be permeable or non-permeable.
Call : (415) 493-8934
Read More : dccert.org/Hayley Johnson
Stanley Costa
Owner, SonoMarin Cleaning Services, Inc.
How to Clean Your House
Many people don’t realize that using a specific methodology to clean their homes will make the whole process easier and ensure better results. For example, when cleaning a room, start at one corner and either clean clockwise or counter-clockwise so you don’t forget anything.
Call : (415) 493-8934
Read More : dccert.org/Stanley Costa
More Diamond Certified Expert Contributors Serving San Francisco
Our San Francisco Glossary
“Golden Gate Bridge”
Iconic suspension bridge connecting San Francisco to Marin County, known for its stunning architecture and scenic views.
“Alcatraz Island”
A former federal prison turned national park, located in San Francisco Bay and known for its notorious history.
“Fisherman's Wharf”
A popular waterfront district in San Francisco, offering seafood restaurants, shops, and various attractions.
“Cable Cars”
Historic cable-driven streetcars that are a symbol of San Francisco's transportation and a popular tourist attraction.
“Chinatown”
One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America, featuring vibrant streets, markets, and cultural events.
“Painted Ladies”
Victorian and Edwardian houses with colorful paint schemes, particularly notable at Alamo Square, representing iconic San Francisco architecture.
“Twin Peaks”
A pair of hills offering panoramic views of the city and the bay, popular for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
“Haight-Ashbury”
A historic district known for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement, famous for its eclectic shops and vibrant atmosphere.
“Fog City”
A nickname for San Francisco due to its characteristic fog, which often rolls in from the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique and atmospheric environment.
San Francisco's Perennial Events
APRIL
San Francisco International Film FestivalThe San Francisco International Film Festival is one of the longest-running film festivals in the United States. It features a wide selection of international and independent films, as well as filmmaker discussions and special events.
JUNE
San Francisco PrideSan Francisco Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in the world. It takes place in June and features a colorful parade, live performances, community booths, and a celebration of LGBTQ+ rights and culture.
AUGUST
Outside Lands Music and Arts FestivalOutside Lands is a popular annual music and arts festival held in Golden Gate Park. It showcases a diverse lineup of musical acts, art installations, gourmet food, and wine and beer tasting experiences.
OCTOBER
Fleet Week San FranciscoFleet Week is an annual event that honors the U.S. military and showcases the Blue Angels aerobatic team. It includes air shows, ship tours, and military demonstrations.
OCTOBER
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass FestivalHardly Strictly Bluegrass is a free annual music event held in Golden Gate Park. It features a wide range of musical genres, with a focus on bluegrass and folk music.
San Francisco Maps
San Francisco was founded in 1776, and today, your 892,500 neighbors enjoy barbecuing, crabbing, sailing, horseback riding and redwood forests.
ZIP Codes Within San Francisco City
- 94112, 94110, 94122, 94109, 94116, 94117, 94121, 94134, 94118, 94124, 94115, 94114, 94132, 94102, 94131, 94107, 94103, 94133, 94123, 94127, 94108, 94105, 94158, 94129, 94111, 94130, 94104, 94101, 94106, 94119, 94120, 94125, 94126, 94135, 94136, 94137, 94138, 94139, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94143, 94144, 94145, 94146, 94147, 94150, 94151, 94152, 94153, 94154, 94155, 94156, 94159, 94160, 94161, 94162, 94163, 94164, 94171, 94172, 94175, 94177, 94188, 94199
Diamond Certified Preferred Members In San Francisco
- Special access to local quality
- Diamond Certified Directory
- Member Hotline
- Double Performance Guarantee
We invite you to join us and get your always-free membership now.
Featured San Francisco Links
Groups and Clubs Serving San Francisco
San Francisco Bicycle Coalition
The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting bicycling as a safe and convenient mode of transportation in San Francisco. They advocate for bike-friendly policies, organize community events, and provide resources to encourage cycling in the city.
Golden Gate Bird Alliance
The Golden Gate Bird Alliance is a conservation organization focused on protecting and preserving bird populations and their habitats in the San Francisco Bay Area. They offer birdwatching trips, educational programs, and engage in conservation efforts.
The Commonwealth Club of California
The Commonwealth Club is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious public affairs forums. Based in San Francisco, they host a wide range of events, including lectures, panel discussions, and debates that cover a variety of topics, from politics and culture to science and technology.
San Francisco LGBT Community Center
The San Francisco LGBT Community Center is a hub for the LGBTQ+ community in the city. They provide a wide range of services, support, and resources, including counseling, social events, workshops, and advocacy.
Religious Organizations
Serving San Francisco
Grace Cathedral
Grace Cathedral is one of San Francisco's most iconic religious landmarks. The Episcopal cathedral known for its architecture, vibrant community, and commitment to social justice.
Congregation Emanu-El
Congregation Emanu-El is one of the largest and oldest Reform Jewish congregations on the West Coast. They offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for worship, education, and cultural activities, serving the diverse Jewish community of San Francisco.
Glide Memorial United Methodist Church
Glide Memorial United Methodist Church is renowned for its social justice and community service programs. They provide meals, shelter, healthcare, and supportive services to those in need in the Tenderloin neighborhood.
Islamic Society of San Francisco
The Islamic Society of San Francisco serves the Muslim community of the city. It provides a place of worship, religious education, and community engagement. The society also organizes events and outreach efforts to promote understanding and dialogue among people of different faiths.
Social San Francisco
Oldest San Francisco
Businesses
Tadich Grill
(Founded 1849)
Boudin Bakery
(Founded 1849)
The Old Ship Saloon
(Founded 1851)
Ghiradelli Chocolate Company
(Founded 1852)
Hotaling & Co.
(Founded 1865)
Popular Spots!
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge that spans the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. It is one of the most recognized landmarks in the world and offers stunning views of the bay.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz is famous for its former high-security prison, which housed notorious criminals like Al Capone. Visitors can take a ferry to the island to explore the prison and learn about its history. The island also features gardens and bird sanctuaries.
Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is a waterfront neighborhood known for its seafood restaurants, shops, and attractions like Pier 39. It's a lively area with street performers and views of the bay.
Chinatown
San Francisco's Chinatown is one of the oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods in North America. Visitors can experience China’s rich cultural history and visit temples and markets.
Restaurants We Love
Gary Danko
Gary Danko is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its upscale and contemporary American cuisine. The menu features a combination of classic and innovative dishes.
Tartine Bakery & Café
Tartine is a San Francisco institution famous for its artisanal bread, pastries, and gourmet sandwiches.
Zuni Café
Zuni Café is known for its rustic Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. It's particularly famous for its roast chicken and wood-fired brick oven pizzas.
House of Prime Rib
The House of Prime Rib is a classic steakhouse that has been serving prime rib since 1949. It's renowned for its slow-roasted prime rib served with all the traditional fixings.