The LA crosswalk parking law enforcement is set to become stricter as the Los Angeles City Council’s Transportation Committee unanimously passed an ordinance establishing a dedicated fine structure for parking violations near crosswalks. The ordinance will now move to the full City Council for review.
The proposed ordinance outlines a base fine of $63, alongside increased penalties of $126 for late payments and $151 for second-time violations.
This initiative is designed to strengthen compliance with regulations that prohibit parking within a certain distance of crosswalks to improve visibility. Commonly known as the Daylight Saving Life Protection Act, the law officially went into effect in July.
The law mandates a complete ban on parking within 20 feet (approx. 6 meters) of the approach side of a crosswalk to protect pedestrians. For crosswalks equipped with curb extensions, the no-parking zone is set at 15 feet (approx. 4.6 meters), roughly the length of a large SUV. Violating this rule currently results in a $63 fine, but the new ordinance aims to significantly reinforce these penalties.
Additionally, transportation committee members requested that the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) develop public awareness and driver education campaigns regarding the rules. They expressed particular concern over the lack of enforcement and guidance in residential areas where curbs have not yet been painted red.
LA Department of Transportation General Manager Laura Rubio-Cornejo stated that the department posted relevant guides on social media immediately after the law was enacted, emphasizing that the best way to inform citizens is through active law enforcement.
She explained that in areas where curbs are not yet painted red, warning notices will be issued first to alert drivers that parking is prohibited within a specific distance from intersections. She added that parking enforcement is already underway along major corridors where red curbs are established.
Rubio-Cornejo emphasized that once the ordinance undergoes revisions and receives final approval from the City Council, the city will be able to launch broader community engagement and promotional campaigns to ensure citizens clearly understand the regulations.
According to the LA County Sheriff’s Office, approximately 36% of pedestrian traffic fatalities in unincorporated areas resulted from intersection accidents. ‘Daylighting’ crosswalks by securing clear space aims to improve visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists alike.
