No parking near crosswalks (California Daylighting Law)

Do not park near crosswalks (marked or unmarked) in California. It's against the law (Daylighting Law, Assembly Bill 413).

It is illegal to park or stop a vehicle in within:

• 20 feet of a crosswalk (marked or unmarked)
• 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension or bulb-out

This new state law is sometimes referred to as the Daylighting law. It improves safety by increasing visibility. Drivers can spot pedestrians sooner, reducing the chance of accidents.

The law aligns with the City's Vision Zero goal to eliminate traffic-related deaths and injuries.

The new law applies to all intersections with crosswalks, and we will issue tickets whether or not "No Parking" signs or markings are present.

Some intersections have markings that are inconsistent with the newly adopted law. Always double-check where you park to make sure you comply with the new law.

Daylighting makes streets safer by keeping the space next to crosswalks clear of parked cars. When this area is open, drivers, cyclists, and people walking can see each other more easily.

It helps pedestrians cross safely without stepping into traffic to look around parked cars—especially important for children, who are harder to see. It also gives drivers a better view of the crosswalk so they can spot people waiting to cross.

Short term

While we plans long-term improvements, we’re looking at temporary steps like adding flexible posts (delineators) or extra signs to improve safety until permanent changes are made.

Permanent

We are reviewing options to meet AB 413 requirements, based on budget and our Capital Improvement Plan. Possible actions include:

• Red curbs: Paint curbs red near crosswalks to mark no-parking areas and improve visibility.
• “No Parking from Here to Corner” signs: Add clear signs near crosswalks to remind drivers not to park too close.
• Loading or short-term parking zones: Turn some no-parking areas into short-term spaces, like loading zones, in line with the new law.
• Bike racks: Use some of the cleared space for bike parking to support sustainable travel.

These ideas are still being reviewed and not yet approved. Check this page for updates.