In a major crackdown on illegal cannabis cultivation, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu has filed a lawsuit against a property manager linked to a massive illegal cannabis grow operation. The operation, discovered in two Bayview warehouses, yielded a staggering haul of nearly 6,000 plants and 300 pounds of cannabis, making it one of the city’s largest unlicensed grow busts in recent years.
The lawsuit names David Chi-Yu Lai, the property manager of the warehouses, who allegedly leased the spaces to tenants engaged in cannabis cultivation without obtaining the required licenses. According to City Attorney Chiu, these unlicensed grows operate outside of state compliance regulations, creating an unfair advantage over licensed operators who adhere to California’s strict cannabis laws. Chiu emphasized the importance of curbing these illegal operations to maintain a level playing field and promote fair business practices within the city.
Beyond the economic implications, city officials also raised serious concerns about the safety risks associated with unlicensed grow operations. Court documents revealed numerous code violations at the Bayview sites, including exposed wiring, unsecured CO2 tanks, and the absence of essential safety systems. The operation’s proximity to a residential community posed significant dangers, ranging from potential fire hazards to CO2 exposure.
The warehouses, located on Fitzgerald and Wallace Avenues, were leased through Lai’s company, P.A.A. Property, LLC. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Lai entering one of the grow sites, though it remains unclear whether he directly profited from the cannabis operation. City Attorney Chiu stressed the importance of targeting property owners who facilitate illegal activities, arguing that this approach is crucial in dismantling California’s underground cannabis market.
This case underscores the city’s commitment to combating illegal cannabis activities and prioritizing community safety. The lawsuit against the property manager is a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by unlicensed grows, promoting fair competition within the cannabis industry, and ensuring the well-being of San Francisco residents.
