Daylighting: California’s New Law Bans Parking Near Crosswalks

What is the Daylighting Law?

The California Daylighting Law (Assembly Bill 413) is a critical road safety initiative that:

• Prohibits parking within 20 feet of marked or unmarked crosswalks
• Aims to improve visibility for both pedestrians and drivers
• Went into effect on January 1, 2024
• Warnings started on November 11, 2024.
• Citations (starting at $40) will be issued starting January 1, 2025.

Key Implementation Details

Legal Specifics:

• Creates a new section in the California Vehicle Code (CVC 22500(n))
• Applies to both marked and unmarked crosswalks
• Covers two-way and one-way streets differently:
  • Two-way streets: Only right-side approach affected
  • One-way streets: Both left and right curb areas restricted

Practical Implications

Parking Changes:

• Leave 20 feet (approximately one car length) from crosswalks
• Follow local red curb or signage restrictions
• Be extra cautious in dense urban areas

Community Perspectives

Resident Reactions:

• Safety advocates strongly support the law
• Some drivers concerned about parking challenges
• General consensus: pedestrian safety trumps parking convenience