Toolkit

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STREET PARKS :: Sidewalk landscaping toolkit

Sidewalk gardens are a great way to add some green space to your block. Our Park Partner, PlantSF, focuses on permeable sidewalk landscaping and created this toolkit.

Getting started

Permits - To remove part of the sidewalk and create a garden by your home or business you must first submit a sidewalk landscape permit application.

Review the sidewalk landscaping information sheet and guidelines (from DPW).
For help in filling out your application, download the sidewalk landscape permit application walkthrough.

Working together saves money - Invite your neighbors to join in a planting to reduce fees. Joint plantings can also save on installation costs and result in a larger overall garden. If you work with your neighbors, one application per property is required.

Developing a plan - To complete your permit application you must submit a drawing of your new garden and list the plants that you propose to use. You may complete the drawing yourself or hire or an architect or landscape designer can help you.

Review select a design drawing that show approved planting areas.
See recommended plant list for ideas.
For professional help, we suggest that you contact Shift Design Studio.

Payment - A fee is required with this permit application.

$215 non-refundable fee per property if submitted individually; $185 if submitted jointly with 2 – 4 neighboring properties; $160 if submitted jointly with 5 or more neighboring properties (Neighboring properties must be within the same block or intersection.)
Checks should be payable to: CCSF-DPW- BUREAU OF URBAN FORESTRY.

Meetings and inspections - Some meetings and inspections are required by the City in order to complete the process. These requirements are detailed in the sidewalk landscaping information sheet and guidelines (from DPW) and are listed for you below. If you have questions about these requirements contact DPW at 415.641.2676.

Call 415.641.2676 to schedule the required pre-construction site inspection to evaluate the proposed landscape plans in relation to existing infrastructure, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines, California Building Code Title 24 and other regulatory codes and guidelines. Schedule an inspection at least two (2) weeks before the anticipated start of construction. Attend the scheduled pre-construction site inspection.

Issuance of permit is subject to staff approval. Applicant will be notified of any required changes or receipt of permit at the conclusion of the onsite inspection.

Call Underground Service Alert at 800-227-2600 at least two (2) days prior to digging to check for the location of your underground utilities. There is no charge for this service. See www.USAnorth.org for further details.

Proceed with demolition and installation. It is recommended to use a licensed and insured contractor. Work may be conducted by Owner as general contractor.

Call 415.641.2676 at least (1) one week in advance to schedule a final inspection to be conducted once work is completed. Attend the scheduled post-construction site inspection.

DPW staff will sign-off on the project or inform the applicant of any changes required to comply with the plans as permitted. If changes are necessary, an additional post-construction site inspection will be required.

Digging in! - Once your paperwork is submitted and your permit is approved you're ready to dig in.

Extract concrete with a concrete saw and jack hammer. These are available at local tool rental companies, or you may hire a contractor to do this work.
Relocate or remove demolished materials to a recycle yard. Consider coordinating with your neighbors to share costs.
Prepare, augment and/or remove portions of the existing soil. (Remove large rocks, till new soil with existing soil to a depth of 12-24"). This will encourage root growth into the existing soil. Consider retaining large rocks on site as landscape features instead of sending them to landfill.
Install weed barrier cloth if desired. While not required, this may make maintenance easier. Note that weed barriers may also prevent desired plants from spreading, and may be cut to provide for this growth. Rock mulch may be more effective than a weed barrier and also serves decorative and soil protecting functions.
Select and install plant and/or other materials. See the recommended plant list.
Install rock or mulch around plants to increase moisture retention and reduce weed growth.
Select and install decomposed granite and/or permeable pavers for paths and driveways. Be sure to install pavers properly with sand and gravel layers.
Provide initial watering of plants (until drought tolerance is established, approximately 2-4 months, depending on season).
Provide light maintenance. (When selected and installed properly, includes removal of trash, optional watering, light weeding, and minimal tending of plants).

Sidewalk landscape design drawings - Find the drawing to suit your site.

Click the links below to find drawings for download that will help you visualize the planting area for your sidewalk garden. These drawings were made to comply with the City guidelines and requirements and are accurate as of September 2007.

I want to plant on the street side of the sidewalk.

I want to plant on both sides of the sidewalk.