Facility Rental FAQs

  1. What is SPUR?

    The San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association (SPUR) is a registered 501(C)(3) nonprofit. Our public policy organization brings people together from across the political spectrum to develop solutions to the big problems cities face. We’re recognized as a leading civic planning organization and respected for our independent and holistic approach to urban issues. Click here to learn more.

    Back to Top
  2. What does it cost to rent the Urban Center?

    Rentals start at $20,000 for up to 12 hours of service. Additional hours may be contracted (inquire for rates).

    Please note that during citywide events, a 3-day rental minimum is required and rates are subject to change. Citywide events may include but are not limited to: GDC, RSA, VMworld, TechCrunch Disrupt, Dreamforce.

    Back to Top
  3. What’s included with my rental?
    • Exclusive use of the 1st, 2nd and 4th floor, up to (12) hours per day
    • Day-of venue coordinator & janitorial service
    • Guest WiFi network (10mbps) & house AV system
    • 5-Ft. rolling tables & Herman Miller Caper chairs
    Back to Top
  4. I’m interested in booking. What’s next?
    • Submit an inquiry to [email protected]. Please be sure to include:
      • Event date(s)
      • Event start and end time, including any hours specifically required for load-in/out
      • Guest count
      • Preferred setup (i.e. theater, classroom, standing reception, etc.)
      • Any additional details, constraints or special requests we should be aware of
    • Request a hold
      • This reserves your preferred date(s)/time(s) for up to 30 days, OR until another party challenges
      • If your hold is challenged, you have 48 hours to contract or release the space
    • Request a contract
      • 50% Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit due at time of contract signing
    Back to Top
  5. Is there a catering kitchen on site?

    No, but there is a catering prep space with access to electricity and running water on the building’s basement level.

    Back to Top
  6. Can I serve alcoholic beverages?

    Alcoholic beverages may only be served by vendors backed with a liquor license. SPUR and its rental clients must adhere to all state and federal laws pertaining to the service of alcoholic beverages. These include, but are not limited to:

    • Alcohol may not be served to minors (i.e. guests under 21 years of age) at any time. Catering/bartending staff must ensure that no minors are drinking alcohol by appropriate means of identification set forth by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
    • Catering/bartending staff must notify their managers when they observe a guest drinking irresponsibly and cease all alcoholic beverage service to said guest. (If such a situation occurs, the day-of venue coordinator should be notified immediately.)
    Back to Top
  7. Do you allow open flame (sterno, chafing dishes, candles, etc.)?

    SPUR does not allow open flame (including sterno) without a fire permit. Convection ovens are most commonly used, and anything electric is okay.

    Back to Top
  8. Do you offer AV/tech support?

    SPUR does not have AV or tech support staff. The venue coordinator will provide a brief day-of tutorial, but you are responsible for the operation of all devices during your event. Hiring a dedicated tech is a great way to ensure a seamless AV experience. Please refer to our preferred vendors list and be sure to contact [email protected] to schedule a run-through prior to event day.

    Back to Top
  9. Am I required to use your preferred vendors?

    You're welcome to contract the vendors of your choice. If they haven't already worked in our space, please contact [email protected] to set up a site visit prior to your event.

    Back to Top
  10. Where can my vendors load/unload?

    The curb directly in front of SPUR is a bus-only/no parking zone. We suggest vendors park across the street or in nearby Annie Alley. SPUR does not have a loading zone – all vendors and guests must use the main entrance at 654 Mission Street.

    Back to Top
  11. What are the dimensions of your elevator?

    Exterior frame height = 6'10"

    Interior height = 7'

    Depth = 7'6"

    Width = 5'3" (includes clearance for ADA rails)

    Back to Top
  12. May I deliver things to the building prior to my event?

    Unscheduled deliveries cannot be accepted and SPUR is not responsible for lost/stolen packages. Email [email protected] to discuss delivery and storage options.

    Back to Top
  13. Do I need to provide a certificate of insurance (COI)?

    Yes. SPUR requires all rental clients to provide a Certificate of Liability Insurance (COI). Typically this can be obtained through a company policy. SPUR must be named as additionally insured for the date(s) of your event. Click here to view an example.

    Back to Top
  14. Do my vendors need to provide a COI?

    Yes. SPUR requires all vendors working in the space to provide a Certificate of Liability Insurance (COI). SPUR must be named as additionally insured for the date(s) of your event. Click here to view an example.

    Back to Top
  15. I’m an individual without a company insurance policy. What do you recommend?

    Visit wedsure.com or contact your homeowner insurance provider.

    Back to Top