Lobbyists

Trainings

NetFile Training for New Users
Political Committees and Lobbyists are required to electronically file campaign statements and disclosure reports using the Commission’s NetFile e-filing system. Once your NetFile account has been established by Ethics Commission staff, we encourage new users to contact NetFile to request a 30-minute training by NetFile’s staff. There is no charge for this service. Click here for […]
Lobbyist: Video | Required Training for Contact Lobbyist
Contact Lobbyists must view this approximately 35-minute training within one year of their initial registration. Following viewing, a lobbyist must file a signed declaration stating that they have completed the training. This declaration must be submitted on or before the deadline for completing the training. Supporting Documentation: File Training Declaration form

Guides and Manuals

Fact Sheets

Lobbyist: Fact Sheet | FAQ on Proposition T – Restricting Gifts and Campaign Contributions from Lobbyists
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
Lobbyist: Fact Sheet | Who is a Lobbyist?
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 […]
Lobbyist: Fact Sheet | Lobbyist Contacts
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 […]
Lobbyist: Fact Sheet | Lobbyist Disclosures and Documents
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 […]
Lobbyist: Fact Sheet | Contact Lobbyist Registration and Training
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 […]
Lobbyist: Fact Sheet | Overview of the San Francisco Lobbyist Ordinance
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 […]