A new California law now restricts how close vehicles can park to crosswalks in Anaheim and throughout the state. The regulation, which took effect in January, is designed to improve visibility and enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
The measure, known as “daylighting,” requires that parking be prohibited within 20 feet of a crosswalk or 15 feet where curb extensions are present. These rules also apply near fire stations and intersections. According to city officials, the intent is to clear space so that all road users have a better view of each other at crossings.
California joins more than 40 other states with similar laws aimed at increasing street safety.
“The state law aims to improve visibility and make streets safer for kids, families and everyone who walks, bikes or drives.”
Anaheim officials said they are implementing the new rule through education first but will enforce it when necessary. “We know parking is a challenge in many Anaheim neighborhoods, where every inch of curb space ends up being used,” the statement read. “While we all need to prioritize crosswalk safety, Anaheim is taking an educational approach in neighborhoods where parking is an issue.”
The city plans to inform residents about the change and initially issue warnings rather than citations as people adjust. However, authorities noted that severe violations—such as vehicles parked directly in crosswalks or blocking visibility—may result in immediate enforcement actions.
“But, even as we work to raise awareness on the new law, everyone should be aware that severe cases of vehicles are subject to citation and other enforcement now and in the days ahead.”
Residents are encouraged to report serious parking concerns using Anaheim Anytime, an online tool for submitting neighborhood issues such as illegal parking or graffiti. City staff track these reports and address most within days.
“You can use Anaheim Anytime at Anaheim.net/anytime.”
The daylighting provision has been added as section 22500(n) of the California Vehicle Code.
Anaheim serves as a major hub for tourism and transportation in Orange County. The city hosts professional sports teams like the Angels baseball team and operates venues such as Angel Stadium and the Anaheim Convention Center, which offers over one million square feet of event space according to its official website. As a prominent family vacation destination known for attractions like Disneyland, Anaheim draws millions of visitors annually while fostering community growth (official history page). The local government operates under a City Council/City Manager system intended to serve residents’ interests (official website).
The name “Anaheim” reflects its origins: “Ana” comes from the nearby Santa Ana River while “heim” means home in German—a nod to its founding by German settlers (official history page). With facilities like ARTIC connecting regional transit services (official website), Anaheim’s influence extends across Southern California.
