The City of San Diego is now accepting proposals from individuals and organizations to lease, renovate, operate and maintain the Tecolote Canyon Golf Course. The course, designed by legendary professional golfer Sam Snead and renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., is a beloved part of the Clairemont, Bay Park and Linda Vista communities. 

The City issued a Request for Proposals for the 71-acre property, located at 2755 Snead Ave., which includes the 18-hole golf course, driving range and clubhouse. In addition to renovating and maintaining these facilities, the City is looking for a lessee that can make several improvements to the property, such as replacing the bridges that cross Tecolote Creek, completing the replacement of the irrigation system and upgrading the clubhouse’s Pro Shop and food and beverage services. Proposals must also show that golf tournaments and golf instruction, training and coaching programs will continue at the course.  

The course is part of the Tecolote Canyon Natural Park Master Plan, which serves as a guide for the development and preservation of Tecolote Canyon. Any proposed developments in or near the canyon must adhere to strict guidelines to maintain the area's natural integrity. 

“Tecolote Canyon Golf Course is a beloved, well-established golf course with endless potential, and we couldn’t be more excited to move forward in elevating its worth,” said Economic Development Director Christina Bibler. “This facility serves as a vital community asset, hosting junior golf clinics, social mixers, seasonal events and charity tournaments that promote accessibility and inclusivity in the sport. The selected operator will be expected to maintain high standards of course quality and maximize economic and recreational value for residents and visitors.” 

When selecting a lessee, the City will consider the vision for course improvements and capital improvements plan, operational experience, financial capacity and the ability to deliver strong, sustainable operations. Once an operator is selected, the lease must be approved by the City Council. The City expects to negotiate the terms of the lease after a proposal is selected.   

The Request for Proposals can be accessed through the City’s website. To give proposers an opportunity to view the golf course, staff will conduct site visits on Monday, March 23, and Tuesday, March 24. Proposals must then be submitted by 5 p.m. on April 14.  

The golf course, driving range and some nearby trails are currently closed while the City rehabilitates and replaces 4.7 miles of a major sewer line that runs through the golf course. Work on the sewer line is expected to be completed by the end of the summer. The City’s Parks and Recreation Department is overseeing the rest of the property while work is underway.  

In addition to Tecolote Canyon Golf Course, the City leases the land used by Fairbanks Ranch Country Club, Mission Trails Golf Course, The Hodges Golf Improvement Center, The Vineyard at Escondido, Presidio Hills Golf Course, Colina Park Golf Course and leases a portion of the land used by Carlton Oaks Golf Club.