Last updated March 2026
The Hayes Street closure refers to the recurring weekend closure of the 400 block of Hayes Street in San Francisco’s Hayes Valley neighborhood.The closure began in 2020 under the City’s COVID-era Shared Spaces program and continues today under a street-use permit administered by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and ISCOTT.
This documentation hub compiles primary records, monitoring reports, and supporting context related to the operation of the closure and the use of the public right-of-way.
Key Facts: Hayes Street Closure
Location: 400 Block of Hayes Street, San Francisco
Program Origin: Shared Spaces (COVID-era program)
First Implemented: 2020
Permit Authority: SFMTA / ISCOTT
Permit Type: Recurring weekend street closure
Documentation: Ongoing monitoring by residents and businesses
Timeline of the Hayes Street Closure
2020
Temporary street closure begins on the 300, 400, and 500 block of Hayes Street under San Francisco’s Shared Spaces program during the COVID-19 pandemic. *Friday, Saturday and Sunday schedule.
2021
500 block of Hayes Street restored.
2022
300 block of Hayes is restored.
2023
SFMTA staff initially recommended against renewing the Hayes Street closure. The permit was ultimately renewed under revised conditions, limiting operations to Fridays and Saturdays, following further review.
2024
The Hayes Street closure permit continues under revised operating conditions and ongoing monitoring. Focus shifts toward increased programming and “activation” of the space, including brokered events.
November 2025 – Shared Spaces Permit Renewal & Post Renewal Developments
- Pre-renewal updates from the permit holder described the street closure continuation for 2026 as “not certain.”
- November 18, 2025: SFMTA Board approves renewal of Shared Spaces Permit No. 1316522 for the 400 block of Hayes Street (Friday 4–10 pm and Saturday 10 am–10 pm, November 28, 2025 – November 28, 2026).
- November 21, 2025: We received cease-and-desist letter issued by the permit holder three days after SFMTA renewal approval.
- December 31, 2025: Civil harassment petition filed by the permit holder targeting our documentation efforts of the closure.
The closure remains in operation while policy discussions continue regarding the future use of the public right-of-way in Hayes Valley.
What is the Hayes Street closure?
The Hayes Street closure refers to the recurring weekend closure of the 400 block of Hayes Street in San Francisco’s Hayes Valley neighborhood. It began in 2020 under the City’s Shared Spaces program and continues today under a street-use permit governing use of the public right-of-way.
Who manages the Hayes Street closure permit?
The closure operates under a permit administered by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), with oversight from the Interdepartmental Staff Committee on Traffic and Transportation (ISCOTT).
Why has the closure generated debate?
The Hayes Street closure has generated debate due to ongoing questions about permit compliance, enforcement of operating conditions, and the impact on the Hayes Valley retail corridor and public access to the right-of-way.
Permit Compliance Summary
A structured summary of recurring conditions observed during monitoring of the Hayes Street closure.
View Permit Compliance Summary
Closure Overview & Conditions
An overview of the street closure permit governing the 400 block of Hayes Street, including its history, permit terms, and the operational conditions attached to use of the public right-of-way.
View Closure Overview & Permit Conditions
Compliance & Violations
Recurring compliance issues documented during routine monitoring of the closure.
View Compliance & Violations
Permit Status & Updates
Updates on permit status, agency actions, and relevant developments affecting the closure.
View Permit Status & Updates
Community Survey
Feedback from residents, businesses, and visitors regarding the closure and its impacts.
View Results
Closure FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Hayes Street closure and how it operates.
Read the Closure FAQ
Why This Matters
Our Case for Reopening
A summary of the policy, operational, and neighborhood concerns supporting restoration of normal street access.
Read Our Case for Reopening
Petition to Revoke the Hayes Street Closure Permit
Restore normal access and accountability for the public right-of-way.
Sign the Petition