AB 413: How California’s New Daylighting Law Impacts Real Estate, Parking, and Pedestrian Safety
California has taken another step toward improving pedestrian safety — but this time, it comes with real implications for property owners, investors, and developers.
Assembly Bill 413 (AB 413), also known as the Daylighting Law, officially went into effect on January 1, 2024. And while enforcement will be “warning only” for most of this year, full citations will begin January 1, 2025 — even if no curb is painted or signage is posted.
Here’s what you need to know and why it matters:
What is AB 413?
Under AB 413, it’s now illegal to park within 20 feet of any crosswalk (marked or unmarked) on the approach side of traffic. If there’s a curb extension (also called a “bulb-out”), the restricted area drops slightly to 15 feet.
The goal? Increase visibility for drivers and protect pedestrians, especially children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Daylighting — keeping intersections clear for sightlines — has been proven nationwide to reduce crashes, particularly at busy or poorly lit intersections.
🏘️ Who Needs to Pay Attention?
While this is a public safety win, AB 413 has ripple effects across the real estate world, especially for:
- Homeowners on corner lots
- Investors developing ADUs or multifamily properties
- Landlords marketing properties with street parking
- Realtors listing or valuing homes where curb appeal is key
Curbside parking, once considered a small asset, may now be partially restricted — and that loss can affect rental income, buyer appeal, and even appraisals if not properly disclosed or accounted for.
📅 Important Timeline
- January 1 – December 31, 2024: Cities issue warnings only if the curb is unmarked.
- January 1, 2025 onward: Tickets and citations begin, regardless of curb paint or signage.
Some cities are moving quickly to paint curbs and post signs (like Santa Clara, Livermore, and Encinitas), but many areas will rely on the statewide mandate even without visual markers.
🛠️ What Should Property Owners and Investors Do?
Here’s a quick action plan:
✅ Measure distances from your crosswalks to your property’s curbside parking.
✅ Communicate with tenants if you manage rentals, especially near intersections.
✅ Review marketing materials (MLS listings, rental ads) to avoid misrepresenting parking availability.
✅ Factor parking changes into valuations — especially for projects relying on “curb appeal” or ADU additions.
✅ Contact your local city about anticipated enforcement and signage.
Housing laws are shifting rapidly in California, from expanded ADU allowances to parking regulations like AB 413. The most successful property owners and investors will be those who adapt early, stay informed, and position their assets for long-term resilience.
If you work in real estate, construction, development, or property management, now’s the time to update your strategies.
Because in this market, visibility isn’t just about pedestrians — it’s about opportunity.
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