Shadow Analysis Procedures and Scope Requirements

In the City and County of San Francisco, there are two circumstances which could trigger the need for a shadow analysis:

1. If the proposed project would be over 40 feet tall, and could potentially cast new shadow on a property under the jurisdiction of the Recreation and Park Department, per San Francisco Planning Code Section 295; and/or
2. If the proposed project is subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and would potentially cast new shadow on a park or open space such that the use or enjoyment of that park or open space could be adversely affected.

This memorandum documents the Planning Department’s standard procedures for conducting a shadow analysis both for the purposes of CEQA review and for the purposes of Section 295 review. A complete Shadow Analysis has three main components: (1) Shadow Diagrams, (2) Shadow Calculations, and (3) a Technical Memorandum. In some cases, survey information may also be required.