link-localThe City of San Diego is enforcing an ordinance it revised in March, primarily targeting compliance with sidewalk vending regulations. Officials laid out a permitting process, which dictates parks where people can hold classes. Sunset Cliffs, however, is not mentioned.
"I keep saying, I thought it was hot dog vendor, and all of a sudden, it's yoga teachers too, mom groups, and sign language classes in the park (that are restricted)," yoga instructor Jackie Kowalik said.
The yoga teachers said their classes are free, though attendees can donate if they want. They insist they aren't selling anything, and that their classes follow another rule under city code, being kept under 50 people.
"We need support from our community to continue to advocate for our right to gather, for our right to honor this reciprocity with the land to speak our free speech," instructor Ray Pakif added.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the city told ABC 10News an activity with more than four people requires a permit.
"The City of San Diego’s Municipal Code prohibits groups consisting of four or more people engaged in commercial recreational activities like yoga, fitness classes and dog training from gathering in parks without a permit and can only operate in certain designated areas. Picnics and other gatherings of 50 or more also require a permit in parks, beaches and bay. The applicable municipal code (SDMC 63.0102) has been in effect since 1993, and recent updates to the policy have clarified the activities for which necessary permitting applies. These updates went into effect March 29 and are in place to ensure these public spaces remain safe and accessible to all users at all times. Park Rangers, police and lifeguards have the authority to enforce these codes to ensure public safety in San Diego’s parks and beaches."
But the instructors said there is no permit for Sunset Cliffs, where they conduct their sessions.[/quote]
