Rental Spaces FAQs

How far in advance do I need to book my event?
Inquiries can be made at any time, and we prefer to have at least one month of lead time to prepare for events that host up to 100 people. For larger-scale events of 100 people or more, a longer lead time is necessary.

How do I request to host an event?
If you’re ready to speak with our Private Events Manager, just fill out the Contact Us form at the bottom of this page. Once received, our Private Events Manager will check availability and send you a personalized quote. The space may be put on hold until a contract is issued. Your event is fully confirmed once there is a signed contract, a 50% payment of the venue rental fee, and a refundable deposit.

Can I place a hold on a date?
A hold may be placed at almost any time on a rental space for a maximum of two weeks, if available. Holds are valid unless another party inquires about the space, in which case you will get the first right of refusal on event space.

How do I set up a site visit?
On-site visits for large-scale events in Kanbar Hall are required. In other spaces, site visits are highly recommended. Site visits are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays and can be scheduled through our Private Events Manager. Please reach out to them to schedule.

How early can I arrive to set up for my event?
Access to the event is provided two hours before your event. Early access is charged at an hourly rate. 

What is the cost of hosting my event?
Event costs vary depending upon the number of guests, length and venue rental. Most event inquiries will receive a personalized quote within 48 hours based on the details and nature of the event.  Larger events may require more time for a site visit and production consultations.   

How can I get a price quote for my event?
For pricing information please just fill out the Contact Us form at the bottom of this page.

How are fees collected?
Clients are charged a refundable $500 security deposit which is due upon signing. Usually, half of the payment is due upon signing and the remainder is due 60 days before your event.  

Is there a non–profit discount on rentals?
Yes, nonprofit organizations receive a discount on the venue rental fee. Please contact our Private Events Manager to learn more about our nonprofit discounts. 

What are the venue hours included in the rental fee?
Events are typically booked in 4-hour (minimum) blocks during regular business hours. Special allowances can be made for larger-scale events that extend after regular business hours.

What is included in the venue rental fee?
The venue rental fee includes the use of the event space(s) outlined in your contract. Also included are:

• Tables, chairs and set-up of furniture the JCCSF already owns 
• Set-up and break-down of JCCSF assets 
• An on-site facility coordinator to assist in planning 
• Basic lighting 
• High speed Wi-Fi 
• White paper tablecloths   

What is NOT included in the venue rental fee?
The JCCSF does not provide: 

• Cloth linens (though white paper table clothes can be provided if requested) 
• Event planning services 
• Floral or any other décor 
• Food and beverage 
• Entertainment or any other element that is needed for your event 
• Glassware and food utensils – They must be brought in by the client or caterer 

Who will be the point of contact for my event?

The Private Events Manager will assist with initial event inquiries and is your main point of contact up until the contract is signed. Clients will then be introduced to our Event Operations Team and Event Coordinator, who will be your primary point of contact. This team will work directly with you or your point of contact, ensuring operational policies and procedures are in place, allowing for a smooth, pleasant experience.  

What does the JCCSF Security team do at my event?
Our security team will be on site to guard all access points during load-in, event and load-out. Additionally, they can be hired for extra security needs. 

What services are included when you book at the JCCSF?
The JCCSF provides customer service from start to finish for your event. We will ensure the set-up and room arrangements are made prior to the event date. Our Program Support team will set up the room with tables and chairs and AV equipment requested.  

What kind of furniture does the JCCSF provide?
The JCCSF has card tables, 6’ rectangular tables, and 66’’ banquet tables as well as chairs. We have a limited supply of armchairs, side tables, tall cocktail tables, and other various items that are available as needed. We also have branded signage upon request.

Is Wi-Fi included in my event?
Yes, the JCCSF has a free public guest Wi-Fi network to be used at your convenience.  

Are there kitchen facilities available on site?
The JCCSF has three kitchen facilities, which can be rented at a daily fee. We have a Preferred Caterers list who have worked in our building.  All caterers must provide proper licensing and insurance documents. If food is merely being dropped off, then no kitchen rental is needed.    

Do I need an event planner?
An event planner is not required, but always recommended for larger events. The event planners may be sourced by client and can work with our team to ensure success.  

What are the regular business hours of the JCCSF?

The JCCSF is open Monday – Friday from 5:30 am – 9:00 pm, and Saturday – Sunday from 7:00 am – 5:00 pm, unless otherwise noted for holidays. Please check the JCCSF website here or check with the Private Events Manager to confirm availability. 

Is there parking at the JCCSF?

The JCCSF has a paid indoor parking garage and rates are posted here on our website. A special parking rate can be arranged with the Private Events Manager if stated in the contract.  Ample metered street metered parking is also available.   

Is there public transportation that goes to the JCCSF?

The JCCSF is located in Pacific Heights, at the corner of California Street and Presidio Avenue. The JCCSF is accessible via the following SF Muni Lines: 

1 California, 3 Jackson, 4 Sutter and 43 Masonic all have stops at the corner of California & Presidio. The 2 Clement, 24 Divisadero, 33 Stanyan, 31 AX/BX Balboa and 38 AX/BX Geary all have stops within a few blocks of the JCCSF. Visit www.sfmuni.com for more information. 

Is there storage available on site before or after an event?
There is no storage available on site pre or post event. All items MUST be removed from the venue post event. Arrangements must be made ahead of time if deliveries need to be dropped off. Deliveries must also be on days that are included in the rental contract.

Is there a loading dock at the JCCSF?

There is a loading dock located on Presidio Ave for large deliveries for your event. Please schedule with the Event Coordinator any deliveries or large items for drop-off and pick-up, which may be subject to additional charges.  

Are there lighting options available?

The JCCSF has an on-site production team. Limited customized lighting is available. Initial inquiries can be made during the site visit and discussed with the production team to be finalized in the contract.  

Is there any equipment available to rent for my event?
Yes, please speak with the Private Events Manager and production team to identify other equipment needs and pricing.

Are animals allowed inside the event space?
No, animals are not allowed inside the JCCSF, unless they are registered service animals with proper vest and identification.

What permits are required at the JCCSF?

Event insurance is required for all rentals, and details can be found in our contract. Additionally, an alcohol permit must be obtained if alcohol is being served or sold, and this license is generally available through the caterer. A one-day license can be procured through the ABC. Outside alcohol is only permitted with a permit, or if the event is a Jewish ritual activity.  

Are candles allowed?

Candles are allowed only when permitted if pre-approved by the JCCSF security team and event staff.  This includes the use of candles, food flame burners, or any other open flames.  See examples below:  

What is allowed:

• Enclosed flame candles
• Sterno flame for catering purposes. (Fire extinguishers are required at each Sterno table)

What is not allowed:

• Open flame candles used in a decorative capacity are not permitted.
• Unprotected and gel type candles are not permitted.

What is allowed with restrictions:

• A limited count of 1 – 4 candles can be used for a religious ritual, ceremony or service.
• Candles must be firmly secured into candle holders. It must be a proper fit.
• Open-flame candles must not be left unattended at any time. A dedicated JCCSF Security staff member must be present during the entire time frame that flame candles are lit.
• Any associated costs of the Security staff member will be billed to the client.
• The staff will be stationed near the open-flame candles.
• The security staff will have a fire extinguisher available.