How close to a railroad crossing can you park in New Jersey?
Under New Jersey law, how close to the nearest rail of a railroad crossing may you park?
The answer
You may not stand or park within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing.
R.S.39:4-138 bars standing or parking within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic.
The same statute sets other no-parking distances, such as within 10 feet of a fire hydrant and within 25 feet of a crosswalk.
Exceptions
- The rule does not apply when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic, or when an officer or sign directs otherwise.
Why this rule matters for safety
Parked vehicles near a crossing block the view of approaching trains and can crowd the roadway where drivers need room to stop.
Official sources
- P.L.2009, c.257 (amends R.S.39:4-138) · New Jersey LegislatureClause (j) of R.S.39:4-138, within 50 feet of the nearest rail. Approved January 17, 2010; later amendments 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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