Enforcement of New Statewide ‘Daylighting’ Law Begins Jan. 1

 A new statewide law going into effect at the beginning of 2025 aims to protect people crossing intersections after several years of escalating pedestrian deaths.

Studies have shown that if drivers have greater visibility at crosswalks, crashes involving pedestrians can be more easily avoided. As of Jan. 1, 2025, vehicle parking will not be allowed within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk. This rule applies whether or not there is a red curb or a no-parking sign at the intersection. 

The purpose of the law is to improve the range of vision of approaching drivers, so they are more likely to see pedestrians and others in intersections.

“It is important for San Diegans and visitors to be aware of and comply with this new state law,” said Transportation Department Director Bethany Bezak in a statement.

“It may take some time for San Diegans to get accustomed to it, but together we can make our roadways safer for all users.”

The statewide “daylighting” law, which is meant to protect people crossing intersections, prohibits people from parking vehicles within 20 feet of a corner, in turn creating more visibility. 

The law affects all intersections in the state of California.

In the city of San Diego, law enforcement will be handing out warnings to violators of the law for the first 60 days. Beginning March 1, 2025, motorists who park within 20 feet of any crosswalk, marked or unmarked, may be cited. Tickets will cost $65, plus a state-mandated administrative fee of $12.50, for a total of $77.50.

Nationally, 43 states already have daylighting laws, and most prohibit parking within 20 feet of an intersection.

More information on “daylighting” and its goals can be found here.