Drivers in Los Angeles County are facing new parking regulations and increased enforcement, leading to citations under California's "daylighting" law and a recently enacted nonconforming vehicle ordinance. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced Tuesday that parking enforcement officers would continue issuing citations for violations of the "daylighting" law, which took effect January 1, 2025.
This law prohibits drivers from parking within 20 feet of the approach to a marked or unmarked crosswalk. It also restricts parking within 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension, regardless of whether painted curbs or posted signs are present. Officials state the measure aims to enhance visibility at intersections, allowing drivers to better see pedestrians and vice versa. According to the sheriff's department, nearly 36% of all pedestrian traffic fatalities in unincorporated Los Angeles County occur at intersections.
In parallel, deputies are also enforcing the county’s nonconforming vehicle ordinance, which became effective on March 3, 2026. This rule limits where oversized and other nonconforming vehicles can park in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County and grants authorities the power to tow violating vehicles.
Violating either the "daylighting" law or the nonconforming vehicle ordinance carries a $63 fine. Vehicle owners whose cars are towed will also be responsible for additional towing and storage costs.
The Sheriff's Department advises motorists to review these parking regulations before leaving their vehicles unattended. The department is collaborating with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works on improving curb markings and signage where necessary, and with the Board of Supervisors on community concerns as enforcement continues.