Application & Screening
Individual or Family Unit
A family unit is two or more persons jointly engaged in the creation of an art or craft item, no one of whom stands in an employer-employee relationship to any of the other members. Decide if you are applying as an individual or family unit partnership and fill out the Street Artist Application accordingly.
Apply
Submit your completed application to the San Francisco Arts Commission, along with the required application fee.
Screening
Review the screening criteria and attend the screening scheduled for you by the Advisory Committee and Craftsman Examiners. Bring twelve samples of each craft and six incomplete samples for all categories, except jewelry and beaded items. Invoices for materials will also be reviewed.
Register your business
Register your business with the City through the Office of the Treasurer and Tax Collector (TTX).
Apply for a Seller’s Permit
Apply for a Seller’s Permit from the CA State Board of Equalization in order to sell products and services.
Submit documentation
Bring your Business Registration Certificate, Seller's Permit and one color photograph of the artist to the Street Artist program staff.
Certificate fee
Pay the certificate fee, either $184 per quarter (3 months), or $738 for one year and receive your certificate.
Note
The Arts Commission waives fees for honorably discharged veterans who are also California residents and wish to participate in the Street Artist Program.
Selling Your Goods
Payment options
Explore your payment system options. Although operating as a cash-only business may be easier, a credit card payment system can help maximize customers.
Space Lottery
Participate in the Space Lottery, which determines where you may sell your goods.
Note
Check the lottery schedule for time and frequency at each location.
Set up your table
Set up a table or booth in your designated location. Ensure that your table/booth dimensions fit within your allotted space and will adequately display your goods.
Taxes & Renewals
Renewals
Renew your certificate by mail or in person at the Street Artists Program Office.
Note
You may be eligible to reinstate your license or you must rescreen your wares.
Pay your taxes.
Prepare and pay your local, state, and federal taxes. Learn more from the SF Treasurer, SF Assessor, CA Franchise Tax Board, and the IRS.