Guidance for City staff using generative AI tools

The City has released new guidance for City staff who use generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, in the course of their work. Generative AI is a new form of artificial intelligence (AI) software that can produce realistic text, images, audio, video and other media based on a prompt provided by the user. These tools use large sets of data culled from the internet to produce new content quickly. Because data from the internet can be subject to gender, racial, and political biases and inaccurate information, there is potential for AI-generated content to reproduce biases and misinformation.

Remember that you are responsible for the work you produce, and for complying with existing City policies, no matter what tools you use! Just like with all new technologies, staff should work with IT prior to using Generative AI tools in their work.

Top 5 Guidelines for using Generative AI Technology Responsibly

1. You’re responsible
   Whether created by AI or a human, you are accountable for anything you use or share.
2. Use secure tools
   Copilot Chat is approved for City use and available to all staff. Avoid public or consumer AI tools unless formally vetted — never enter sensitive or City data into them.
3. Always check the output
   AI isn’t always right. Review, edit, fact-check, and test everything it generates.
4. Be transparent
   Disclose AI use in public-facing or sensitive work. Record tools in the City’s 22J inventory and notify anyone directly impacted.
5. No deepfakes
   Do not use AI to create fake images, audio, video or other content that could be mistakenly interpreted by someone to be real.

For more guidance and information, read the San Francisco Generative AI Guidelines or contact your IT team. The City Administrator’s Office will update the guidelines as technology, legislation, and regulations evolve.