California’s new parking law sparks controversy: drivers outraged, officials stand firm
As of March 2025, California has implemented AB 413, a new law that has stirred widespread public reaction. Under this legislation, parking vehicles is prohibited within 20 feet of pedestrian crosswalks. The aim is to improve pedestrian safety, especially for children and the elderly, by increasing visibility at intersections. However, the measure has faced backlash from drivers and small business owners—particularly in large cities where parking is already a critical issue.
What is AB 413?
AB 413, introduced by Assemblymember Alex Lee, is based on the principle of “daylighting”—the idea that the area near a pedestrian crossing should remain free of parked cars. This ensures that both drivers and pedestrians can see each other clearly, reducing the risk of accidents caused by “blind spots.”
This method is already in use in cities like New York, Washington, and several European cities, and California decided to follow their example.
What is AB 413?
AB 413, introduced by Assemblymember Alex Lee, is based on the principle of “daylighting”—the idea that the area near a pedestrian crossing should remain free of parked cars. This ensures that both drivers and pedestrians can see each other clearly, reducing the risk of accidents caused by “blind spots.”
This method is already in use in cities like New York, Washington, and several European cities, and California decided to follow their example.
Key provisions of the law:
According to local officials, more than 4,300 fines have already been issued in San Diego since March, triggering widespread frustration. Residents complain about:
Many argue that the government is using the law as a revenue-generating tool rather than a true safety measure.
Impact on Businesses
The law has especially impacted small businesses in busy areas, where every inch of parking space matters. Owners of cafés, barbershops, and local stores say their customers are now forced to park blocks away—and often choose to take their business elsewhere.
“My revenue dropped by 15% in just two weeks,” said the owner of a small coffee shop in downtown Los Angeles. “My regulars don’t want to risk getting ticketed.”
What Officials Are Saying
Supporters of the law—including transportation departments and city officials—argue that it could save lives. Statistics show that approximately 25% of pedestrian fatalities occur at intersections, especially in areas with poor visibility.
“This law may seem inconvenient, but if it saves even one life, it’s worth it,” said a spokesperson for the California Department of Transportation.
Authorities claim they did provide early warnings about the law through websites, social media, and local news outlets. However, they admit that physical road markings and curb adjustments are still underway, as updating infrastructure takes time and funding.
What Should Drivers Do?
To avoid fines, drivers are advised to:
A dedicated website is also being developed where drivers can check restricted areas and contest tickets if issued in error.
Conclusion
AB 413 is an example of how even the best intentions can clash with logistical challenges. While pedestrian safety is a valid and urgent concern, its implementation demands a balanced approach—clear markings, better public communication, added parking solutions, and reasonable transition time.
- 🚫 Parking is prohibited within 20 feet of the closest edge of a marked or unmarked crosswalk, unless curbs or pavement markings clearly indicate otherwise.
- Violators face a $117 fine.
- The law officially took effect on January 1, 2024, but enforcement began in March 2025, when local authorities were directed to start issuing tickets.
According to local officials, more than 4,300 fines have already been issued in San Diego since March, triggering widespread frustration. Residents complain about:
- Lack of visible signage or warnings.
- Shortage of available parking spots.
- Faded or missing crosswalk markings.
- Inadequate public information campaigns.
Many argue that the government is using the law as a revenue-generating tool rather than a true safety measure.
Impact on Businesses
The law has especially impacted small businesses in busy areas, where every inch of parking space matters. Owners of cafés, barbershops, and local stores say their customers are now forced to park blocks away—and often choose to take their business elsewhere.
“My revenue dropped by 15% in just two weeks,” said the owner of a small coffee shop in downtown Los Angeles. “My regulars don’t want to risk getting ticketed.”
What Officials Are Saying
Supporters of the law—including transportation departments and city officials—argue that it could save lives. Statistics show that approximately 25% of pedestrian fatalities occur at intersections, especially in areas with poor visibility.
“This law may seem inconvenient, but if it saves even one life, it’s worth it,” said a spokesperson for the California Department of Transportation.
Authorities claim they did provide early warnings about the law through websites, social media, and local news outlets. However, they admit that physical road markings and curb adjustments are still underway, as updating infrastructure takes time and funding.
What Should Drivers Do?
To avoid fines, drivers are advised to:
- Keep a safe distance from pedestrian crossings, even when markings are unclear.
- Look for posted signs and curb markings.
- Use parking apps and updated navigation tools to check for restricted zones.
- Monitor updates from the California DMV and local transportation departments.
A dedicated website is also being developed where drivers can check restricted areas and contest tickets if issued in error.
Conclusion
AB 413 is an example of how even the best intentions can clash with logistical challenges. While pedestrian safety is a valid and urgent concern, its implementation demands a balanced approach—clear markings, better public communication, added parking solutions, and reasonable transition time.
For now, it’s drivers and small businesses who are paying the price for incomplete preparation.