La Zagaleta operates under a private membership rule that is older than most current owners. Membership is, in practice, granted by purchase — but the purchase is contingent on the existing board approving the buyer.
The mechanics are simple: a candidate makes an offer through their advisor, the offer is conditioned on board approval, and the board meets monthly to consider new entrants.
In our experience, rejection is rare but does happen. The reasons are not made public.