LA JOLLA, Calif. - The Children's Pool in La Jolla, which was scheduled for a five-month closure beginning Thursday for harbor seals pupping season, will remain open to the public.
The decision was made by city officials in order to comply with an Orange County Superior Court judge's ruling.
Since 2014, the city has closed the pool from Dec. 15 to May 15 every year during pupping season for the beach and surrounding area. The rope line which serves as a guide and reminder for the public to keep a safe distance from any seals who might be present will remain in place while the beach remains open, officials said.
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.
While the beach remains open, the city encouraged visitors to 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.
