NewsNBC 7 San Diego — Local NewsAugust 4, 2026San Diego
San Diego Police and lifeguards increase enforcement against illegal cliff jumping at Sunset Cliffs
San Diego law enforcement has increased patrols and issued over 300 warnings and 18 misdemeanor citations to individuals jumping from Sunset Cliffs. City ordinance prohibits jumping or diving into the ocean or Mission Bay from heights greater than 5 feet.
Read the full story at NBC 7 San Diego — Local NewsWhy It Matters
Residents and visitors face potential charges, jail time, or fines up to $500 for jumping from cliffs, a practice that has recently resulted in high-profile emergency rescues.
Key Facts
- City law prohibits jumping or diving into the ocean or Mission Bay from any structure or natural feature more than 5 feet above the water.
- Violations of the cliff-jumping ordinance are classified as misdemeanors.
- Penalties for a violation include a fine of up to $500 or jail time.
- San Diego police and lifeguards have increased patrols at Sunset Cliffs following two recent high-profile rescues.
- Law enforcement has issued over 300 warnings to individuals at the site.
- Law enforcement has issued 18 misdemeanor citations to individuals at the site.
- Lifeguards are utilizing boats with bullhorns and stationed trucks to discourage jumping activity.
Who's Mentioned
other17“Age of a jumper involved in a recent rescue.”locationMission Bay“Area covered by the jumping ordinance.”personSeth Marcil“Individual interviewed regarding cliff jumping.”locationSunset Cliffs“Primary location of the enforcement activity.”other18“Number of misdemeanor citations issued.”personLuke Bailey“Individual interviewed regarding cliff jumping.”other300“Number of warnings issued by police.”personMichael Nava“Individual interviewed regarding cliff jumping.”locationSan Diego“Jurisdiction where the ordinance is enforced.”