Surf School Settles Legal Dispute with Newport Beach

Jason Murchison, the owner of Learn to Surf, has settled a legal dispute with Newport Beach, California, enabling his surf school to continue operations.

The conflict began when Murchison applied for permits in 2015 and 2016, which were denied. The city’s regulations only allow paid instruction through a limited number of contracts, while free instruction remains permissible. After being cited for teaching without a contract, Murchison faced a lawsuit that was settled in 2017, but he was later ordered to pay nearly $19,000 in fines.

In January 2025, Murchison filed a new lawsuit claiming that the city was infringing on his rights by limiting the number of surf schools. The recent settlement, finalized on July 28, grants him a five-year agreement similar to those of existing schools, marking a significant development in his ongoing legal battle.