City and County of San Francisco
Ethics Commission

Effective January 1, 2022, designated filers will be required to file assuming office, annual, and leaving office Form 700 statements in electronic format using the Ethics Commission’s internet-based NetFile e-filing system. This fact sheet summarizes the changes and benefits; provides an overview of Form 700 requirements and filing officer responsibilities, and includes an informative FAQ. Click […]

Proposition T was placed on the ballot by a unanimous vote of the San Francisco Ethics Commission in July, 2016 and subsequently approved by San Francisco Voters on the November 8, 2016 election. This fact sheet outlines the provisions enacted January 1, 2018. Click to access Ethics-Commission-Proposition-T-FAQ-Nov-9-2016.pdf

Download Print Copy This fact sheet describes who will qualify as a lobbyist under the San Francisco Lobbyist Ordinance. Lobbyists must register and comply with the Ordinance’s requirements. What Does a Lobbyist Do? A lobbyist is someone who: Is paid to contact a City officer To influence local legislative or administrative action; On behalf of […]

Download Print Copy This fact sheet describes “lobbying contacts” under the San Francisco Lobbyist Ordinance and explains how to count them. Understanding lobbying contacts helps in determining whether to register as a lobbyist and what to disclose in monthly lobbyist reports filed with the Ethics Commission. Modes of Communication A lobbying contact is any communication […]

Download Print Copy This fact sheet summarizes the disclosure requirements for lobbyists in San Francisco.  Lobbyists are responsible for monthly disclosure reports, disclosures about employment, and document retention. Monthly Disclosures By the fifteenth day of every month, you are required to disclose your lobbying activity during the prior calendar month to the Ethics Commission.  This […]

Download Print Copy This fact sheet explains how to register as a lobbyist in San Francisco.  Lobbyists must file a registration report, pay initial registration fees, train, and pay annual fees. Registration and Training Timeline After qualifying as a lobbyist Do not contact another City officer until you register. Within 5 days of qualifying Register […]

Download Print Copy This fact sheet describes the basic requirements and prohibitions imposed on lobbyists under the San Francisco Lobbyist Ordinance. Definition of a Lobbyist A lobbyist is someone who: Is paid to contact a City officer; To influence local legislative or administrative action; On behalf of a client or employer. To find out whether […]

Ethics Commission staff has prepared answers to the “top ten” questions regarding the City’s registration and reporting requirements for permit consultants, which took effect January 1, 2015.   These answers are intended to provide guidance pending the adoption of formal regulations. Please note that this guidance may be subject to change in the future.  Interested parties […]