SF Legislation Aims to Crack Down on Uncertified Batteries as Fires Grow More Common

Why It Matters

Unregulated lithium‑ion batteries pose a growing fire risk in dense urban areas, and the new law could set a precedent for stricter safety standards nationwide. By curbing unsafe products, the ordinance aims to protect residents, firefighters and the broader supply chain from costly incidents.

Key Takeaways

• SF proposes ban on non‑UL certified lithium‑ion batteries.
• 120 battery‑related incidents reported citywide from 2024‑2025.
• Penalties up to $1,000 per violation for sellers.
• Ordinance expands enforcement to online sales and fire‑chief citations.
• Budget e‑bikes often contain unsafe uncertified lithium‑ion cells.

Pulse Analysis

Lithium‑ion batteries power everything from smartphones to e‑bikes, but their high energy density also makes them prone to thermal runaway when poorly manufactured or mishandled. In San Francisco, a December fire in a Tenderloin apartment—triggered by a non‑certified battery—highlighted the danger, adding to 120 documented incidents citywide over the past two years. Fire officials note that these fires ignite quickly, spread fast, and release toxic smoke, challenging traditional suppression tactics and endangering both occupants and first responders.

In response, Supervisor Bilal Mahmood is pushing an ordinance that bans the sale of uncertified lithium‑ion cells, extending enforcement authority to the fire department and covering both brick‑and‑mortar and online retailers. Violators could face fines up to $1,000, and the fire chief would gain citation powers previously limited by state law. The measure mirrors warnings from neighboring San José, where an e‑bike fire claimed a life, and reflects growing consumer‑watchdog concerns about low‑cost, unbranded batteries that lack UL certification. Retailers like In and Out E‑Bike Repair welcome the higher standards, anticipating fewer warranty claims and safer operations.

If adopted, San Francisco’s approach could influence other municipalities grappling with similar fire hazards. Stricter certification requirements may push manufacturers toward higher‑quality components, potentially raising device costs but improving overall safety. Meanwhile, public‑education campaigns on proper charging, storage and charger use remain essential, as many incidents stem from user error as much as from substandard parts. The legislation underscores a broader shift toward proactive risk management in the rapidly expanding personal‑mobility market, signaling that safety compliance will become a competitive differentiator for tech and consumer‑goods firms alike.