FAQ

Why join the Cow Hollow Association?

The CHA is one of the most effective and active neighborhood associations in San Francisco. CHA officers and members collectively devote thousands of volunteer hours to protecting, preserving and enhancing the quality of life in the Cow Hollow neighborhood. CHA is an active member of the Coalition of San Francisco Neighborhoods, a partnership which enables us to leverage the effectiveness of our involvement in local issues by obtaining city-wide support when necessary. Member dues support member communication as well as the occasional use of consultants and attorneys to increase our effectiveness in advocating for neighborhood interests. CHA membership is the best way to stay current on what's happening in Cow Hollow.

Here is what some Cow Hollow residents have to say about the CHA:

"Cow Hollow is the best neighborhood in the City; CHA is dedicated to keeping it that way."

"This is my neighborhood. I can't imagine not belonging to CHA because I care about this special corner of the City."

"There is no better way to be part of the Cow Hollow neighborhood and its residents, shops, environs and neighbors than to be part of the CHA. CHA is about being in the know and being connected to where you live."

"Getting involved with the CHA helps me protect and enhance my neighborhood by working with other capable and motivated neighbors and providing a reputable, united voice to the decision-makers in City government."

Visit the membership page to learn more.

How can I learn more about what's going on in and arround Cow Hollow?

Our Annual Meeting at the Saint Francis Yacht Club features a rundown of the major issues and developments in Cow Hollow and a Q & A session with the District 2 supervisor as well as information tables from organizations such as the Presidio Trust, Friends of the San Francisco Library and the Doyle Drive/Presidio Parkway project. The monthly board meetings provide more current insight into what's happening in and around Cow Hollow and members are always welcome to attend. Contact the President for information about where and when the next meeting will be held.

My neighbor's planning a major expansion of his house. I'm concerned about how this project might affect my property; how can I learn more about what's permissible and what my rights are?

For questions about height, lot coverage, design details or other specific concerns about a neighbor's project, begin by reviewing the Cow Hollow Neighborhood Design Guidelines and comparing the proposed project with what the Guidelines allow. CHA, acting through its Zoning Committee, does not oppose projects that are within the criteria set forth in the Guidelines, but does get involved when a proposal is inconsistent with the Guidelines. The Guidelines are an excellent planning resource, with lots of examples and illustrations. For interpretation or other assistance, contact the CHA Zoning Committee.

I would like to do a major remodel of my Cow Hollow house and I want to do it right. What resources can CHA offer me?

You can visit our Zoning page to download the Cow Hollow Neighborhood Design Guidelines which offer a wealth of planning ideas and information. In addition, you can download the CHA Pre-Application Checklist which will help you keep track of the numerous requirements for obtaining the various approvals you will need before you build.

Do the Cow Hollow Neighborhood Design Guidelines address landscaping as well as building issues?

Yes. See page 52.

There are so always so many complex projects going on in the Presidio and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. How can I keep track of the projects that might affect Cow Hollow and me?

The Presidio is an important neighbor along our entire western boundary. Most of the Presidio is governed by the Presidio Trust, while the remainder falls within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and is governed by the National Park Service. Planning decisions made in the slow evolution of the Presidio from military post to park (a process that began in 1994) can have a large impact on the quality of life for Cow Hollow residents. The CHA has been a key advocate for responsible park stewardship from the beginning, working closely with the Presidio Trust and the other responsible agencies on the various plans for the Presidio and through active membership in NAPP, a consortium of neighborhood organizations adjoining the Presidio.

Current projects underway at the Presidio that affect Cow Hollow include:

Main Post Planning
Presidio Traffic Calming Study
Tennessee Hollow Watershed Project
Main Parade Ground
Mid-Crissy Design Guidelines

For current information, visit the Presidio Trust's website (www.presidiotrust.gov) and the National Park Service's GGNRA website. Also, CHA sends important Presidio and GGNRA updates to members via member emails -- another great reason to join CHA today! If you have specific concerns or would like to get involved, please contact us.

What's happening with parking enforcement in my neighborhood?

CHA tries to monitor and inform the membership about traffic, noise, parking and other issues. If you have a problem in your area and have not found a resolution, please contact us to determine whether we are already working on the problem and how you can help or if we can assist with your issue.

How can I keep up with what's happening with Doyle Drive/the Presidio Parkway?

The redesign and rebuilding of Doyle Drive (now renamed Presidio Parkway) is the largest public construction project to affect Cow Hollow in decades. The CHA has followed the project closely from its inception and has provided formal comments at every phase of planning. For more information, visit the project's website (www.presidioparkway.org). Also, CHA sends important updates to members via member emails -- another great reason to join CHA today!