> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.smdp.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Santa Monica surf camps push for stricter rules as crowded waters spark complaints - URL: https://www.smdp.com/ripple-effect/ - Published: 2007-11-14T16:00:00.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-24T03:55:25.000Z - Author: Kevin Herrera - Tags: Sports, Santa Monica, #archive-import *Community meeting features surf camp related complaints* KEN EDWARDS CENTER Operators of summer surf camps want to bolster City Hall’s liberal surf instruction policy that allows anyone to give lessons to small groups of kids and adults without obtaining a permit or proving they can perform CPR in the case of an emergency. The proliferation of camps has also become a sore spot for residents and beach-goers, who often complain the amateur riders clog the waters during peak days and times. During a community meeting Tuesday night, surf instructors and residents agreed that unregulated surf schools have grown in such a number that it is becoming increasingly difficult for other surfers or swimmers to access the water. There is also a concern about public safety and whether or not these schools employ certified instructors who have experience working with children. “Your plumber can go out and (start) a surf camp,” said Mary Setterholm, a former U.S. Women’s Surfing champion and the director of the Surf Academy, one of two camps to operate under a contract with City Hall’s Community Programs Division. A TASTE OF NYC Joe’s Pizza opens its first West Coast eatery STORY BY MELODY HANATANI PAGE 8 By requiring camp operators to obtain a business license and go through an application process that looks at a camp’s reputation and record of service, Setterholm said the city can “shake out the tree,” leaving behind only the most qualified. Surfing has long been an integral part of the Santa Monica lifestyle, but in recent years, the surf and sand have become increasingly crowded as more surfing schools hit the popular breaks. Lifeguards said at least one fist-fight almost broke out this summer when the operator of a permitted camp took offense to attempts by another operator to steer clients and instructors away. Contributing to the rise in surf schools is City Hall’s liberal surf instruction policy, which allows for unregulated surfing instruction for groups that have less than 20 children or any number of adults.A limited number of permits (three) are available for larger groups on a first-come,first-served basis.In addition, City Hall contracts with surf instructors to offer surfing lessons through the Community Programs Division. City Hall is proposing to limit instruction to those groups issued a permit through Open Space, or contracted through Community Programs. During summer months or other peak-use periods, surf instruction may be limited solely to classes offered through Community Programs. At no time would instruction be permitted without authorization by City Hall, regardless of group size, according to the proposal. The community meeting on Monday was called to gather input from instructors and the public on the proposal. “I was very pleased with the turnout and very pleased with the fact that people were supportive of the idea of stepping up regulations and eliminating the loophole … that currently exists in the ordinance,” said Callie Hurd, City Hall’s open space manager. Not everyone was in favor of more regulations. One resident was adamantly opposed to allowing any surf camps on the beach because they interfere with the enjoyment of the ocean. “I’m sick and tired of these pirate camps,” the resident said. Bill Samson, a surfer from Malibu, said he didn’t believe surfing should be regulated, but if it is, instructors from Santa Monica College should be excluded because they offer lessons that are far less expensive than private camps. “My problem is that when the government starts restricting things, somebody ends up getting taken out to lunch,” Samson said. “I don’t think it should be regulated, but I don’t see any problem with (camps) having to provide proof of insurance.” Some operators suggested the city could require camps to obtain a certification from recognized groups like the National Surf Schools & Instructors Association or the American Camp Association, or at least adopt some of their standards. Others said a good way to ease overcrowding would be to spread out the camps and have some operate north of the Santa Monica Pier, an area that receives far less visitors. There were some objections to this because there is not easily accessible parking there and the surfing is not as good for beginners because of a harsh break at high tide. Another suggestion was to make certified camps wear specific “rash guards” over their wetsuits to let people know they are approved by City Hall. Setterholm said another good idea may be to set aside a section of beach specifically for larger groups like the YMCA or Boys & Girls Club. One resident, Nicolas Ostrogovich, a former surf instructor and junior lifeguard, said he believes there should be a limit on the number of students an instructor can have at one time. He believes a 4-to-1 ratio would be about right. Without one, kids in large groups are put in jeopardy, he said. “Try controlling four kids with four long-boards,” Ostrogovich said. “It’s tough.” Another suggestion made was to allow surf teams from local schools to operate as they do now, without restrictions. There was also a lot of support for keeping popular surf spots at Tower 26 and Bay Street off limits to surf camps out of respect for locals. Some operators did have complaints about the lottery system used to issue permits and believe something more equitable is in order. There was also a call for permits to be valid for a longer period of time, perhaps two or three seasons, so that camps know where they stand from year to year. Hurd said she and her staff are expected to present recommendations to the City Council on Dec. 11. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/55/9f/559f9abc-8372-4a2e-8c2d-27386da4e363/content/images/2026/10/111407-01_01.jpg) of Randy Wright HANG TENSE: A surfer steps up on his board Tuesday amid picture perfect skies and clear waters on Santa Monica Beach. (Photo: Photo courtesy) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/55/9f/559f9abc-8372-4a2e-8c2d-27386da4e363/content/images/2026/10/111407-01_02.jpg) of Randy Wright HANG TENSE: A surfer steps up on his board Tuesday amid picture perfect skies and clear waters on Santa Monica Beach. (Photo: Photo courtesy) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/55/9f/559f9abc-8372-4a2e-8c2d-27386da4e363/content/images/2026/10/111407-01_03.jpg) of Randy Wright HEADING OUT TO SEA: A surfer paddles out Tuesday on Santa Monica Beach. (Photo: Photo courtesy) *Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on November 14, 2007.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/111407.pdf?ref=smdp.com)