Beachside Yoga Instructors Facing Pushback Over New Municipal Code Restrictions

The serene beaches of San Diego County have long been a haven for yoga enthusiasts looking to find peace and relaxation amidst the crashing waves and salty air. However, recent updates to the municipal code have thrown a wrench in the plans of beachside yoga instructors, who are now facing pushback for hosting outdoor classes without a permit.

The new city code now prohibits businesses from operating beach events without proper permits, including yoga and fitness classes. This has left yoga instructors like Jackie Kowalik, who has been teaching donation-based classes at Sunset Cliffs since 2017, in a state of uncertainty and frustration.

For yoga enthusiast Austin Kastenberg, the crackdown on outdoor yoga classes seems unnecessary and unfair. “This isn’t like a concert or festival, it’s just groups of people coming together for their health and wellness,” he expressed.

In response to the new restrictions, attorney Bryan Pease has stepped in to help yoga instructors like Jackie find a solution. He has sent a cease and desist letter to city officials and plans to file a lawsuit against the city, seeking a temporary restraining order.

The city, on the other hand, maintains that the municipal code has been in effect since 1993 and recent updates have simply clarified the activities that require permits. They emphasize that groups of four or more engaged in commercial recreational activities must obtain permits to gather in parks, beaches, and bays.

As the debate continues to unfold, the future of beachside yoga classes in San Diego remains uncertain. Will the city find a compromise that allows yoga instructors to continue their classes in these picturesque settings, or will the pushback from the community lead to further restrictions? Only time will tell.