Regulations for golf courses during stay at home order

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Golfing or parking at a golf course is prohibited under San Diego County's latest public health order.

It falls under the closure of parks, public recreation areas and beaches. The county has also banned active sports activities at these locations.

But, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department recently clarified that there is somewhat of an exception.

If management at a golf course wants to keep their property open for people who live within a walking distance, they can, but not for golfing.

People can walk, hike, bike and in some cases even horse ride, as long as members of one family or household do not actually play golf or gather with other people. They must also have permission to be on a privately owned golf course.

The San Diego Police Department said the same rules apply within city limits.
However, the golf courses owned by the City of San Diego are completely closed off to the public for all activities, even walking.

Those golf courses include Torrey Pines, Mission Bay and Balboa.

People who are caught violating the stay at home and social distancing order can be given a citation.
If found guilty, it is punishable with up to $1,000 fine or six months in jail, and sometimes both.

The sheriff's and police departments have already issued dozens of citations to people caught in violation of the public health order.