Assembly Bill 413 (AB 413), known as the "Daylighting Law," is a California statute aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety by improving visibility at intersections. Effective January 1, 2024, the law prohibits parking within 20 feet of the approaching side of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, regardless of curb markings. This measure ensures that both pedestrians and drivers have a clear line of sight, reducing the risk of accidents.

Under this new State law:

NO PARKING before a crosswalk:

• On one-way streets, there is NO PARKING on both sides of the street immediately before the crosswalk.
• On two-way streets, there is NO PARKING before the crosswalk as you approach it. 
• The "No Parking" buffer is 20 feet before the crosswalk (about one regular parking space size).
• This applies to every intersection, even if the crosswalk is unmarked (all intersection corners are considered crosswalks). 
• This applies to every crosswalk/intersection, even if the curb is not painted red or if there is no other sign restricting parking.

Parking is allowed AFTER a crosswalk:

• Parking is allowed after you pass a crosswalk so long as there are no other markings or signs restricting parking.

The implementation of AB 413 aligns with California's Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries. By restricting parking near crosswalks, the law enhances visibility for both pedestrians and drivers, contributing to safer streets statewide.

In Martinez, red curbs will be added before some crosswalks/intersections over time. A citation may be given for parking before a crosswalk if there is a red curb or other sign present. Please note, this new State law applies to ALL of California, and other cities may begin citing for illegal parking before a crosswalk, even if there is no red curb or sign present.

For more information, please reach out to the Engineering Division at (925) 372-3515 or via email.