Step-by-step
Artist Housing Certification
Review steps needed to get an Artist Housing Certification number from the San Francisco Arts Commission.
Arts CommissionTo become a certified artist that qualifies for artist housing in San Francisco, you must apply and meet eligibility criteria to receive an artist housing certification number. You can use this number to get artist priority for 93 units of new affordable artist housing at Artists Hub on Market Residences.
Artist housing certification is not a housing application. To apply to housing, you must setup an account with the City's affordable housing portal (DAHLIA). Once registered with DAHLIA, you may register for the Artists Hub on Market Residences lottery in late 2027. Click here to learn more about artist housing.
Fill out the interest form
Artist Housing Certification Interest Form
Get updates, application dates, and the application link when it is ready.
Prepare to Apply
Prepare documents to qualify through at least one of three pathways:
First, see if you qualify through Pathway 1 or 2:
- Pathway 1 - Income: Earned more than $10,000 per year from your art in at least 3 of the past 5 years.
- Pathway 2 - Grants: Received a grant to produce art in the past 3 years from a foundation, nonprofit, or government agency, including funding for artistic projects or performances.
If you don't qualify or aren't sure, you can apply through Pathway 3:
- Pathway 3 - Portfolio Evaluation: Show your engagement in and professional commitment to artistic practice through a review of your work samples.
You only need to qualify through one pathway.
You may be asked for:
- Information about your artistic practice
- Supporting documents, work samples, artist statement, or résumé
- Confirmation your information is accurate
Do not submit sensitive information (SSN, bank details, tax forms).
Note: Eligibility is set by City law. Application details are being finalized. Certification does not guarantee housing.
Apply for Artist Housing Certification
When applications open, fill out the online form.
SFAC will review your strongest information. This is not a contest. You only need to meet the eligibility criteria.
Wait for review
SFAC will review your application. It may take 4 to 6 weeks to get a response.
If you qualify, you will get an Artist Housing Certification number that will be good for 5 years.
If you do not qualify, you will have 10 days to appeal.
Get ready for housing
DAHLIA San Francisco Housing Portal is the City’s affordable housing website. You can sign up for email alerts or create a DAHLIA account now.
After you get your Artist Housing Certification number, use it when the Artists Hub on Market Residences lottery application opens in fall 2027.