The Latest with the World Golf Village Property
The World Golf Foundation is seeking a St. Johns County court ruling against the Master Developer – IT Land (formerly known as Fletcher Davis) that declares the private Use Restrictions limiting the sale of the PGA TOUR Entertainment Building, Hall of Fame Museum and IMAX Theatre to be no longer enforceable.
These Use Restrictions prohibit these properties from being developed for anything other than a Hall of Fame Museum, PGA TOUR Productions facility, sports medicine facility and IMAX Theatre.
Additionally, if a resolution can't be reached, much-needed maintenance, repair and security services will remain inactive, which totaled more than $300,000 in lost services in 2025.
The World Golf Foundation owns the area in purple. The blue area is owned by St. Johns County which includes the closed Hall of Fame Museum and IMAX theater. The buildings in red and orange are owned by other World Golf Village companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should these restraints be removed?
The Use Restrictions were agreed to in the 1990s and are solely intended to uphold a vision and concept that is no longer achievable.
Who is imposing the Use Restrictions?
The private Use Restrictions are imposed by the World Golf Village Master Developer - IT Land (formerly known as Fletcher Davis.)
Can a court deem private use restrictions unenforceable?
Yes. The World Golf Foundation has filed a lawsuit seeking a declaratory judgment deeming the Use Restrictions unenforceable. Courts can and do declare private “Use Restrictions” unenforceable for a variety of reasons. These situations include, when the “intent of the restrictions can no longer be carried out because of changed circumstances that make the original purpose obsolete.” Additionally, use restrictions may be struck down when “they impose burdens that significantly outweigh benefits to a community.”
Who owns property within the World Golf Village?
The World Golf Village has multiple owners. In the central portion of the community, the World Golf Foundation owns nearly all the property (37 acres) aside from the parcels (2.48 acres) owned by St. Johns County, and there are additional property owners World Golf Village.
What will happen if the Use Restrictions are upheld?
Unless the Use Restrictions are ruled unenforceable by the St. Johns County Courts, the Hall of Fame Museum, IMAX Theatre and PGA TOUR Entertainment properties, which are all vacant now, will likely remain empty until the Use Restrictions expire in 2046.
Are the grounds surrounding World Golf Village being maintained?
St. Johns County isn't required to pay for any assessments in World Golf Village, so fundamental services like repairs, maintenance and security remain inactive.
What businesses could come in to World Golf Village?
Over the past three years, the community has repeatedly voiced its desire to have a variety of businesses come in, including restaurants and retail. That won't be possible unless the restrictions are removed.