A new permit requirement being considered by the City of San Diego is sparking concern among nonprofit leaders and coastal access advocates. The proposal would require nonprofit organizations to obtain permits before hosting programs on public beaches—a move that some say could limit access to the coast for underserved communities.

Programs like Paddle for Peace, a local nonprofit that introduces youth to snorkeling and surfing for free, could be directly impacted. The organization’s mission centers on making ocean experiences more inclusive and educating participants about environmental stewardship. Under current state law (AB 2939), nonprofits are allowed to use public spaces—including beaches—without needing special permission. This legal protection is what allows groups like Paddle for Peace to offer their programs with minimal barriers.

But the new proposal could change all that.

If adopted, the new rules would override AB 2939’s protections, forcing nonprofits to go through a permitting process for beach activities. Even more concerning to many: the proposed permits would restrict nonprofit access to weekdays only, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.—times when most youth are in school, making it difficult for programs to reach their intended audience.

City officials say the idea for the permit process came from lifeguards, who have reportedly observed unsafe practices by some organized groups at the beach. Supporters argue that requiring permits could help ensure safety and coordination.

Still, nonprofit leaders argue the new rules could unintentionally harm the very communities these programs are designed to support. By creating new hurdles and limiting when programs can operate, they say the city could be undermining equitable access to the coast.

As the proposal moves forward for discussion, many are watching closely—hoping the city will consider solutions that balance safety while still supporting nonprofit missions.