Photo: City of San Diego
SAN DIEGO–In order to comply with an Orange County Superior Court ruling, the City of San Diego is prohibited from closing the Children’s Pool on Dec. 15 as it has done since 2014. The City has appealed the decision and continues to work to resolve legal issues surrounding the pool.
In the past, the City has closed the pool from Dec. 15 to May 15 during harbor seal pupping season for the beach and surrounding area. The existing rope line which serves as a guide and reminder for the public to keep a safe distance from any seals that may be present will remain in place while the beach remains open. The decision to close the pool was approved by City Council on March 18, 2014.
The City has appealed the Orange County Superior Court judgment granting a request for a writ of mandate to compel the City to set aside the beach closure ordinance and related California Coastal Commission approvals.
The judgment granting a writ automatically stays the City’s decision to close the beach unless the Court of Appeal orders otherwise. As such, the City’s beach closure ordinance and related Coastal Commission approvals cannot be enacted during the pending appeal unless the Court of Appeal lifts the automatic stay. The City has filed a motion in the Court of Appeal seeking to lift the automatic stay so that the beach closure ordinance can be implemented during the pupping season while the appeal process is ongoing.
While the beach remains open, the City highly encourages visitors to the beach keep a safe distance from the seals, especially during pupping season for the safety of the animals and the public. Harassing or disturbing the seals at any time is a violation of federal and local laws.
City park rangers and lifeguards will continue to monitor the Children’s Pool while the area is open to keep the public and wildlife safe.
