1655-1661 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94133

The property at 1655-1661 Powell Street is a three-story, multi-family residential building constructed in 1908, containing 5 units and currently owned by the Hsu Family Trust. The building has undergone several significant transformations and faced multiple regulatory challenges over the years. Most notably, in 2018, a temporary liquor store (Coit Liquors) was allowed to occupy part of the ground floor retail space, replacing a previously fire-damaged liquor store, with work estimated at $50,000.

In 2016-2017, the building addressed multiple housing code violations including fire safety requirements, security improvements, and the installation of gas meter instructions, all of which were abated by April 2017. A concerning pattern emerged in 2022, when complaints were filed regarding unpermitted modifications including roll-down metal doors and unauthorized sign changes, as well as a potentially active health referral for a massage establishment from 2012. The building's maintenance history shows regular upkeep and upgrades, including electrical system improvements in 2005-2007 (including service upgrades and repairs), multiple street space permits, and various retail space modifications.

There are two active code enforcement cases from 2004 and 2012 regarding unauthorized use as a health spa and an illegal food establishment that may require further investigation. The property has experienced recurring issues with security and safety compliance, though the owner has consistently worked to address violations when cited. Recent observations show ongoing street-level maintenance challenges in the surrounding area, as evidenced by multiple 311 calls regarding garbage, debris, and street defects in 2022-2024, though these are external to the building itself.