VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE
As of Saturday, March 1, drivers in San Diego can now be ticketed for parking within 20 feet of any crosswalk — marked or unmarked — under California’s “Daylighting” law. The law took effect on Jan. 1, 2025, following a 60-day grace period during which the City issued warnings to educate residents about the new regulation.
“It is important for San Diegans and visitors to be aware of this new state law so they can comply with it and avoid being ticketed,” said Transportation Department Director Bethany Bezak. “It may take some time for San Diegans to get accustomed to it, but together we can make our roadways safer for all users.”
Citations will cost $65, with an additional state-mandated administrative fee of $12.50, totaling $77.50. This matches the current fine for parking at a red curb in San Diego.
California Assembly Bill (AB) 413, passed by the state legislature, applies to all intersections within the City of San Diego and throughout California. Research shows that increasing drivers’ visibility at crosswalks can help prevent pedestrian-involved crashes.
As a result, the law aims to enhance visibility for drivers approaching intersections, helping them better see other motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, skateboarders, and others — ultimately working to prevent collisions that could result in serious injury or death.
Since AB 413 passed, City teams have evaluated more than 1,000 of the busiest intersections in the densest areas of San Diego, installed red curbs at approximately 200 locations, and removed 97 parking meters within the 20 feet.
Nationwide, 43 states already have daylighting laws, and most prohibit parking within 20 feet of an intersection. The average length of an automobile in the United States is approximately 14 feet. To help estimate 20 feet, it may be helpful to envision about one car length and a half’s worth of distance.
The new law will also help move the City toward its Vision Zero goals. To learn more visit: https://www.sandiego.gov/parking/enforcement/daylighting
