How close to a crosswalk can you park in New Jersey?
Under New Jersey's statewide parking rule, how close to the nearest crosswalk may you park?
The answer
You may not stand or park within 25 feet of the nearest crosswalk or the side line of a street or intersecting highway, except at alleys, unless a municipal ordinance sets the distance.
R.S.39:4-138 lists places where parking is not allowed, including within 25 feet of the nearest crosswalk or side line of a street or intersecting highway. The 2010 amendment added that a municipality may set the permitted distance by ordinance.
A municipality may not allow parking within 25 feet of a crosswalk or side line in a school zone while school is in session.
Exceptions
- The rule does not apply when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic, or when an officer or sign directs otherwise.
- It does not apply at alleys.
- A municipality may set a different distance by ordinance, except in school zones while school is in session.
Why this rule matters for safety
A car parked at a crosswalk blocks the sight lines between pedestrians and drivers.
Official sources
- P.L.2009, c.257 (amends R.S.39:4-138) · New Jersey LegislatureClause (e) of R.S.39:4-138 and new section 2 on municipal ordinances. Approved January 17, 2010; later amendments were not checked. The text read states no penalty.
Rules checked against these sources on . Laws change. Confirm with the New Jersey agency before you rely on this for a legal matter.
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