How to Dedicate a Trail

If the trail is within the jurisdiction of San Diego County

If you are interested in exploring the possibility of granting a trail dedication through your property, your Trails Representative can provide you with all of the following information. 

Voluntary Trail Dedication Procedure

4 total pages, comprised of a handout explaining the 8-step process, Voluntary Trail Easement Dedication Checklist, and County Hiking & Riding Trails Application.

The Trail Defense and Indemnification Ordinance

In July, 2000, the County Board of Supervisors passed Ordinance 92333 - The Trail Defense and Indemnification Ordinance. (1 1/2 pages)

Summary of provisions: "It is the intent of this ordinance to provide defense and indemnification to the grantor of an easement for recreational trail uses or an owner of land adjacent to a trail which has been or is dedicated and accepted by the County for public use as a recreational right-of-way from all claims, demands or liability for injuries to a person or property that occurs on such trail..."

There are already plenty of California laws that indemnify property owners from liability for damages incurred by trail users, but the big new addition of this ordinance is that the County of San Diego will even provide legal staff to defend you.

If the trail is anywhere in California

14th Annual California Trails Conference

13-page handout summarizing the California laws that promote the use and development of recreational trails. 

Summary of provisions: There are many California laws that indemnify land-owners from liability for personal and property damage incurred by trail users.