What causes retail vacancies?

There are many theories about what causes retail vacancies. here’s how they have played out in North

Beach.

E-COMMERCE

Maybe. Sales tax receipts have dropped in the neighborhood.

HIGH RENTS

No. Rents in North Beach are similar to the Castro and Mission districts, brokers say.

TAX AVOIDANCE

No. Though critics claim landlords are seeking tax breaks by keeping a property vacant, financial experts say that’s not

possible.

SEISMIC RETROFITS

Yes. A quarter of all vacancies in North Beach are caused by earthquake-proofing upgrades, suggesting the city-mandated safety program is a

major factor.

BUREAUCRACY

Yes. Landlords, business owners and city officials agree that

San francisco’s permitting and zoning requirements are keeping storefronts

vacant.