Drivers in California now face enforcement of the new Daylighting Law, a rule created to improve visibility at intersections and boost pedestrian safety. The measure, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in October 2023, officially took effect in January 2025. After a six-month grace period, enforcement officers in Sacramento are issuing fines to drivers who park too close to crosswalks.
The law has drawn attention because penalties apply even when no signs or painted curbs are present. This change marks a significant shift for drivers across the state, who must now adapt to new parking restrictions that vary from one city to another.
Enforcement Begins in Sacramento and Penalties Across California
As of late July 2025, Sacramento parking officials have started issuing $25 fines to drivers who park within 20 feet of a crosswalk. During the first six months, officers issued only warnings and educational instructions to help motorists adapt to the change.
To prepare for full enforcement, city workers installed signs in selected areas and began painting curbs red, although not every intersection has been marked. While Sacramento’s fines are modest, other cities have adopted tougher measures. San Francisco drivers face $108 fines, while Berkeley enforces penalties starting at $68, rising to $96 during California Golden Bears football games.
In San Diego, drivers received warnings during the law’s first 60 days, but the city has since shifted to active enforcement with fines of $65 plus a $12.50 administrative fee. Across the state, municipalities are also painting curbs, and in San Francisco, officials expect to finish by 2026, creating clearer visual guidance for drivers.
Why the law matters and options for drivers who receive tickets
The Daylighting Law is intended to reduce one of the most frequent causes of pedestrian accidents: limited visibility at intersections. By prohibiting parking within 20 feet of crosswalks, California seeks to provide drivers with a clearer line of sight and minimize the risk of collisions.
Experts note that this “daylighting” approach, already adopted in several U.S. cities, has produced measurable safety benefits, and local officials believe the new law will achieve similar results across the state. Drivers who are fined under the law retain the right to appeal. Many contest citations by checking for errors such as incorrect license plate numbers or inaccurate locations and by documenting conditions with photos.
Some motorists have successfully argued that curbs were unmarked or signs were obstructed. Appeals must be submitted promptly to avoid added administrative fees, and in more complex cases, legal experts recommend consulting a local traffic attorney.
Ongoing changes for California motorists
The rollout of the Daylighting Law reflects a wider effort by California cities to enhance traffic safety. Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, and Berkeley have each adopted their own enforcement timelines and penalty structures, while continuing to educate drivers through warnings, notices, and curb painting.
As these measures expand, officials expect driver compliance to improve, reducing the number of citations and contributing to safer intersections statewide.
