On January 1, 2025, a new Daylighting law was enacted to provide more visibility to pedestrians walking on Encinitas streets by preventing motorists from parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk.

What is the Daylighting law?

California Assembly Bill No. 413 states – “This bill would prohibit the stopping, standing, or parking of a vehicle within 20 feet of the vehicle approach side of any unmarked or marked crosswalk or 15 feet of any crosswalk where a curb extension is present, as specified.”

Benefits of Daylighting

The benefits for pedestrians are clear. Daylighting, or Intersectional Daylighting, significantly reduces the risk of being struck by a vehicle.

When drivers’ views are obstructed by parked cars, they may not see a pedestrian stepping into the crosswalk until it’s too late. Similarly, pedestrians may struggle to see oncoming traffic if their view is blocked. By creating a visual buffer, the law allows both parties to see each other sooner, providing crucial seconds for reaction and avoidance. This is particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with disabilities, who may have slower reaction times or reduced mobility.

Restricting parking near intersections can decrease pedestrian crashes by 30%, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

Another benefit of the Daylighting Law for Encinitas is that it’s a relatively inexpensive way for the city to create safer streets and reduce pedestrian/cyclist/motorist collisions. Proper daylighting can be achieved by simply painting the curbs red and designating the area as a no-parking zone. 

If Encinitas is ambitious about maximizing the space for a more livable city, the daylighting area is a prime opportunity to enhance the space around intersections for beautification or improved functionality. Transportation Alternatives offers multiple solutions that can improve the space once occupied by parked cars.

• Planting trees, greenery or a parklet can provide shade and add a bit of nature to the urban environment. Additionally, installing bioswales, green gutters, and permeable surfaces can help areas prone to flooding and reduce heat from asphalt. 
• Adding bike racks can provide essential bike parking while keeping sidewalks clear for pedestrians and businesses. The space can also be used for shared micromobility corrals, which can reduce the number of scooters and bikes that might otherwise be errantly parked on the sidewalk or in the street.
• In areas with vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and the disabled, boulders, decorative bollards, and other features can be installed to provide additional safety for pedestrians from high-volume, fast traffic.
• Finally (and most fun of all), benches, cafe tables and even basic exercise furniture can be installed to promote social gathering.

Enforcement of Daylighting Infractions

As of March 1, the SD Sheriff’s Office will begin enforcing parking laws in the 20-foot zone near intersections. For the past two months, motorists were given a grace period, and no tickets were issued for Daylighting parking infractions.

“The San Diego Sheriff’s Office is now enforcing the new “Daylighting Law,” just as we do with all parking regulations. As of March 1st, the grace period for issuing warnings has ended.” – San Diego Sheriff’s Office, North Coastal Station, Encinitas

AB 413, the Daylighting Law, is a vital piece of legislation that enhances pedestrian safety. By creating clear lines of sight at intersections, daylighting reduces the risk of accidents and contributes to a more pedestrian-friendly environment. While enforcement will require ongoing effort, the benefits make it an essential tool for creating a safer and more livable Encinitas.