Greg Long's video claim

Presidio Heights resident Greg Long posted a viral video claiming San Franciscans can get private street parking spots by exploiting city permitting rules.

“You apply online, you submit nothing, and the city doesn’t have the resources to follow up”

Signs on Jackson Street

Up and down Greg Long’s block in San Francisco’s Presidio Heights, about a dozen red-and-white construction tow-away signs warn drivers not to park during posted hours.

Public Works response

San Francisco Public Works officials said there’s no evidence significant numbers of homeowners are gaming the system and that the agency actively responds to all complaints.

“We have no reason to believe it’s a rampant issue”

Sign application process

Long claims homeowners can apply online for no-parking signs without construction permits, using landscaping as a valid reason.

Monthly fee and usage

The city issues around 8,600 tow-away sign permits annually, with a $209 monthly fee per parking spot, less than Long’s $350 claim.

Complaint system

San Francisco Public Works encourages residents to file complaints anonymously via 311 or the agency website for unwarranted signs.

Neighbor reactions

Some residents say they’ve moved signs down the sidewalk after months of limited parking, while others see signs as the norm in their neighborhood.

“We’re trying to be done, I promise”