Overview

• A three-judge panel led by Judge Holly Thomas struck down the ban and granted a preliminary injunction to allow shoreline yoga classes to resume immediately
• The court held that yoga instruction involves speech and expressive movement rooted in ancient Hindu philosophy, securing full First Amendment protection
• San Diego’s ordinance was deemed content-based for outlawing yoga as a “service” while permitting other group lessons and failed strict scrutiny for lacking a compelling justification
• The decision noted the city presented no evidence linking yoga classes to threats against public safety or park enjoyment and criticized the rule as underinclusive
• City Attorney Heather Ferbert’s office is reviewing the ruling for a potential appeal as instructors Steve Hubbard and Amy Baack prepare to return to Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach parks