A federal appeals court has ruled that San Diego’s ban on yoga classes at city parks and beaches is unconstitutional, citing the First Amendment. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decided on Wednesday that teaching yoga is protected speech, overturning a previous lower court ruling. This decision allows instructors to resume their classes immediately.
The court found that the city’s ordinance unfairly targeted yoga and wellness activities without justifying any threat to public safety or enjoyment. The ban, part of a broader crackdown on commercial activities without permits, was challenged by several instructors, who argued it violated their free speech rights. According to CBS 8, the court noted that other activities, like tai chi or Shakespeare readings, were allowed, highlighting the ordinance’s content-based restriction.
The legal battle began after San Diego updated its municipal code in early 2024, explicitly banning yoga as a “service” in parks and beaches without a permit. The city argued the ordinance was necessary to control commercial activities and protect public spaces. However, the court disagreed, stating the city failed to demonstrate any plausible connection between yoga classes and public safety threats.
Steve Hubbard, who has taught yoga at Palisades Park in Pacific Beach for 18 years, expressed relief at the ruling. “It feels good to be vindicated,” he told the San Diego Union-Tribune. The city is currently evaluating the decision and considering its next steps, as reported by NBC San Diego.
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