New 'Daylighting Law' Improving Crosswalk Safety

The City of Santa Rosa is dedicated to enhancing public safety by proactively educating and engaging the community of AB 413, also known as the "Daylighting Law."

Effective January 1, 2025, California's Daylighting Law (AB 413) enhances road safety by prohibiting vehicle parking, stopping, or standing within 20 feet of intersections and crosswalks. This statewide measure is designed to improve visibility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, helping to reduce collisions and save lives.

What is Daylighting?

"Daylighting" refers to clearing obstructions near intersections and crosswalks to improve visibility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Removing parked vehicles and other barriers near intersections provides a clearer line of sight, reducing collisions and improving overall safety.

Key Provisions of AB 413

• 20-Foot No-Parking Zones: Vehicles are prohibited from parking, stopping, or idling within 20 feet of any intersection or crosswalk, whether marked or unmarked.
• No Need for Red Curbs: Under AB 413, curbs do not need to be painted red for the parking prohibition to be enforceable. Drivers must adhere to the 20-foot rule, even if there is no signage or painted curb.
• Red Curbs in High Injury Network: Funding from the Safe Streets and Roads for All Federal grant program will help to install red curbs located within the City's High Injury Network.

Why It Matters

Daylighting improves visibility, reduces accidents, and saves lives:

• For Drivers: Better sightlines allow for improved reactions to crossing pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
• For Pedestrians and Cyclists: Enhanced visibility reduces risks, particularly in areas with high foot traffic.

Studies show that areas with daylighting policies experience fewer pedestrian and vehicle collisions, especially in urban settings.

Local Flexibility

While the law establishes a standard, it allows local governments to adapt enforcement and signage based on community needs. For example, certain exceptions may apply where the 20-foot rule isn't feasible due to existing infrastructure.

What Drivers Need to Know

• Be mindful of the 20-foot parking restriction, regardless of whether curbs are painted red or signage is present.
• SRPD's emphasis of enforcement will be on drivers stopping in or too close to an intersection or crosswalk in a manner that would endanger crossing pedestrians.
• Additionally, SRPD enforcement of parking violations will focus on warnings initially, followed by parking citations that may result in fines or penalties even if the curb color has not been updated to reflect the new rule.
• Stay alert for potential updates or changes in local parking regulations.

Benefits to Communities

• Improved Visibility: Increases sight lines for drivers and pedestrians crossing the street.
• Encouragement of Walking and Cycling: Enhanced safety makes streets more inviting for non-motorized transportation.
• Support for Vision Zero: AB 413 is a critical step in California's initiative to eliminate traffic-related deaths and severe injuries.

For more information about AB 413 and its impact, visit California Legislative Information.

The City of Santa Rosa is committed to making our streets safer for everyone and appreciates the public's support in this important effort.

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