Daly City · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Daly City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
St. George Orthodox Church expansion at 1617 Southgate Avenue
A growing congregation wants to replace its old two-story rear wing with a three-story addition for storage, meeting rooms, and visiting clergy quarters. The Commission unanimously endorsed it; the City Council makes the final call on October 26.
Political signs on public property
Resident Sylvia Alvarez Lynch asked the mayor to lead an ordinance penalizing posting political signs on public property with $300-$500 fines, noting SFPUC helped relocate improperly posted signs.
Commercial Cannabis Equity Regulations
The city is changing one word in its cannabis equity rules — from requiring applicants to meet ALL eligibility criteria to meeting ANY — to match state guidance and widen access for those affected by past cannabis enforcement.
Zoning Ordinance Updates (Ordinance No. 1494)
A bundle of code fixes: clearer building-height measurement, longer permit lifespans, fewer permits for condos, and stricter front-yard paving rules. It makes it easier and faster for projects — from ADUs to condo buildings — to actually get built in Daly City.
ADU Regulation Repeal — Zone Change ZC-04-26-17042
The city wants to scrap its local ADU rules to align with state law, but Sacramento hasn't finished reviewing the changes, so the item was tabled.
Residential development standards review
New rules would require triangular landscaping wherever front-yard paving adds a parking space, and ban side-yard paving on corner lots. The goal is less stormwater runoff and cleaner-looking streetscapes.
Stormwater detention requirements for development projects
The city wants to write its stormwater detention rules into the zoning code so there's no more confusion about who has to build retention systems. Small home additions, ADUs, and small paving projects would be exempt, but new single-family homes on small lots would still have to comply. Residents who were previously forced to build expensive systems are asking why, and whether anyone gets reimbursed.
Repeal of outdated ADU/second-unit regulations
State housing officials told Daly City its old second-unit rules — parking requirements and a homeowner registration program — conflict with state ADU law and must go. The city will keep a few neighbor-friendly standards if the state allows them.