If enough red tape was cleared it would be common in SF too. But the regulatory environment is so oppressive that it’s not worth doing a project unless it’s going to be a huge money-maker, which generally means large-scale.
Changing the zoning is a good first step, but not the only (or even the most significant) obstacle.
It sounds like the problem isn't just the law but also the frivolous interruptions that delay permitting. Those aren't written into the law but they still matter a great deal.
Changing the zoning is a good first step, but not the only (or even the most significant) obstacle.