Bay Area Dog Surfing Contest Raising Funds as Permitting Costs Soar

Last year’s event drew thousands, prompting Pacifica officials to charge organizers more for parking, cleaning, and public safety.

Cherie, a French bulldog who went on to win the medium dog category, competes during the World Dog Surfing Championships in Pacifica, Calif., on Aug. 5, 2023. Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Images

Organizers of the World Dog Surfing Championships held on the California coast will decide May 1 whether the popular canines can catch the waves this year after permitting costs skyrocketed.

“This is due to the over 42 percent increase since last year and over 100 percent plus cost increases the event has experienced over the last four years as far as permits, fees, and other event requirements that the local government has requested,” event organizers said on social media April 19.

Organizers are collecting money on an online fundraising page to cover the costs. Contributors had topped the $12,000 goal, donating $13,800 by noon Thursday after one person gave $10,000.

The event is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 2 at Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, about 15 miles south of San Francisco. Last year’s event was also in jeopardy of being canceled, but organizers were able to go on with the show.

“We hope with enough support from fans and friends from around the world, we can do it again this year, and maybe even next year,” the group said on its fundraising page.

The four-legged surfers drew thousands of attendees last year, prompting Pacifica officials to ask organizers to pay higher permit fees to cover parking, cleaning, and safety costs, according to the city manager.

“The World Dog Surfing Championship has grown into a very large event, “ Pacifica City Manager Kevin Woodhouse told The Epoch Times Wednesday in an email.

Following last year’s large crowds and traffic, city staff conducted a more in-depth review to ensure that this year’s permit fees, which total nearly $7,500, accurately covered expenses, Woodhouse added.

Kentucky Gallahue and his dog, Derby California, with their children’s book “The Adventures of Derby California” at the World Dog Surfing Championships in Pacifica, Calif., on Aug. 5, 2023. Jason Blair/The Epoch Times

The event strains beach parking and regional traffic, requiring public works crews to maintain safety, cleanliness, and restroom facilities during peak times. The crowds also need a police presence for crowd control and public safety, according to the city manager.

The scale of the event also requires the local police to develop an event action plan, which costs more money and resources, Woodhouse said.

“Historically, the total local cost to the city for this event has been understated,” he said. “The updated permit fees are an adjustment to better align with the actual expenses incurred to support the event.”

The World Dog Surfing Championships is based on the California coast, where the concept originated, according to the organization.

During the event, dog surfers participate in a number of activities, including the surf competition. The canines win prizes for first, second, and third place.

The event raises money for local charities, including the Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA, and Rocket Dog Rescue, according to the organization.