Love locks started to become a real thing sometime around 2013/2014 in the US, when lots of people started taking metal padlocks, engraving their names or initials + their lover's initials on them, and affixing them to the Brooklyn Bridge.  Or maybe some bridge in Paris?  Does anyone really know?  Here's what the LA Times says:

"The British newspaper says the craze became popular after a 2006 Italian novel by Federico Moccia  included a romantic padlocking scene at Rome's Milvian Bridge"

Love locks in San Francisco

A Love lock found on one of the Haight Tree Grates. Photo June 2014.A few love locks on a Haight Tree Grate. Photo June 2014.

Fishermans Wharf between hyde and powell also has some locks!!!

Love Locks at Fisherman's Warf.

Know another location? Click "Edit" and add it here!

 

In the news (elsewhere)