The La Jolla Village Merchant’s Association is one of 14 community groups made up of dedicated volunteers committed to serving La Jolla’s needs. These range from Traffic and Transportation to Parks and Beaches. Thanks to the La Jolla Light, you can see the most updated list of these organizations here.
As a business you will want to familiarize yourself with the purpose and process of these various groups, For example, if your plans involve building a new building or renovate an existing one; changing the front of an existing business (color of paint, type of material, etc) or putting signage on the exterior of a building; you’re required to seek local approvals prior to permitting with the City of San Diego Development Services.
Listed below are the groups most relevant to business owners:
La Jolla Community Planning Association (LJCPA)
There has been long-standing citizen involvement in planning in the City of San Diego. The City Council adopted policies in the 1960s and 1970s that established and recognized community planning groups as formal mechanisms for community input in the land use decision-making processes. Community planning groups (CPG) provide citizens with an opportunity for involvement in advising the City Council, the Planning Commission, and other decision-makers on development projects, general or community plan amendments, rezoning, and public facilities. The recommendations of the planning groups are integral components of the planning process and are highly regarded by the City Council and by staff.
Learn More
La Jolla Coastal Access and Parking Board
The La Jolla Coastal Access and Parking board works directly with the City of San Diego and the California Coastal Commission to make sure all visitors and residents can easily and equally access the beautiful natural resources found along La Jolla’s coastline. La Jolla Village Merchants Association assists the La Jolla Coastal and Parking Board in administrative matters including the public posting of agendas, meeting minutes, and other documents.
More information about LJCAP can be found here. Current agendas and minutes are below. The next meeting takes place on September 24 via ZOOM at 4:00 PM. All are welcome. Register in advance for this meeting HERE.
La Jolla Planned District Ordinance (LJPDO)
For all new projects in the Village, including building façade, exterior signage approval, as well as new and renovated buildings in La Jolla you must go through a presentation of your project concept to the PDO. The committee will review and decide if the project falls in line with the City of San Diego – La Jolla Community Plan. If approved the project will be recommended to LJCPA to proceed to the City of San Diego Development Services for permitting. Learn More
Enhance La Jolla is an organization dedicated to the maintenance and physical improvement of the Village of La Jolla. Currently being established as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, Enhance La Jolla is managed by La Jolla property owners and other community stakeholders. The primary goal of the organization is to help ensure that the Village remains the jewel of San Diego and create inviting and appealing public spaces that will bring people together and improve the quality of life. Learn More
La Jolla Village Merchants Association (LJVMA)
We bring business to La Jolla! LaJollabytheSea.com is contracted by the City of San Diego to manage the La Jolla Business Improvement District (BID). When you start your new business in La Jolla you will apply for a City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate – you have 15 days to obtain this from the date you open your business. After that date significant fees and penalties will be added to your tax statement, so don’t delay this task on your checklist! I can get quite costly.
You will receive an additional invoice from the City of San Diego if they determine that your address and business fall within the La Jolla Business Improvement District (LJVMA). Those fees range from $45 – $350 annually depending on your business type and location. After the 1st year, the annual business tax and Business Improvement District (BID) assessment will be invoiced together. The number on your City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate is your membership number for the La Jolla Village Merchants Association. Learn More
