CALIFORNIA – Starting January 1, 2025, California will enforce a new parking regulation under the “Daylighting Law” (AB 413) aimed at improving pedestrian safety across the state. The law introduces strict restrictions on where drivers can stop or park near crosswalks to enhance visibility between drivers and pedestrians.
Under the new regulations:
Parking is prohibited within 20 feet before any marked or unmarked crosswalk.
Drivers cannot park within 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension, which is a curb designed to shorten crossing distances for pedestrians.
One-Way Streets Face Stricter Rules
The law extends to both sides of one-way streets, requiring drivers to avoid parking within 20 feet of crosswalks on both the left and right curbs. This differs from two-way streets, where only the approach on the right side of the street is subject to the 20-foot parking restriction.
A Step Toward Safer Streets
California recorded 1,158 pedestrian fatalities in 2022, the highest in the nation according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Research shows that daylighting measures can reduce crashes at intersections by up to 30%, making streets safer for both drivers and pedestrians.
This initiative aligns California with over 40 other states that have already adopted daylighting laws to prioritize road safety.
Impacts on Urban Parking
While the new law is expected to make streets safer, it may also lead to increased competition for curbside parking, particularly in densely populated urban areas where parking availability is already limited.
Drivers across California are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the law to avoid penalties and contribute to safer roadways. Parking tickets will be issued to violators starting in 2025.
