CVC 22526(a)Eligible for written declaration

Blocking an Intersection

Entering an intersection or marked crosswalk, even on a signal to proceed, without enough space on the other side for your vehicle without blocking the through passage of vehicles from either side.

Reviewed by the TicketClear teamLast reviewed October 10, 2026

Fine: $281DMV Points: None

No DMV point: Vehicle Code 12810.4 gives no point for a conviction under CVC 22526, Vehicle Code 22526(f) says it is not a violation of a law relating to the safe operation of vehicles, and the 2026 Uniform Bail and Penalty Schedules list it at 0 points.

This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.

What is a Blocking an Intersection ticket?

CVC 22526(a) says that, notwithstanding any official traffic control signal indication to proceed, a driver of a vehicle shall not enter an intersection or marked crosswalk unless there is sufficient space on the other side of the intersection or marked crosswalk to accommodate the vehicle driven without obstructing the through passage of vehicles from either side. Under 22526(f), a violation is a stopping violation when a notice to appear is issued by a peace officer described in Penal Code 830.1, 830.2 or 830.33, and a parking violation when a notice of parking violation is issued by someone else authorized to enforce parking rules. A parking notice is a civil notice contested with the agency that issued it, not by written declaration in court.

Ask your insurer how a conviction affects your policy.

What the Law Says

(a) Notwithstanding any official traffic control signal indication to proceed, a driver of a vehicle shall not enter an intersection or marked crosswalk unless there is sufficient space on the other side of the intersection or marked crosswalk to accommodate the vehicle driven without obstructing the through passage of vehicles from either side.

What the Officer Must Prove

1You entered an intersection or marked crosswalk
2There was not sufficient space on the other side to accommodate your vehicle without obstructing the through passage of vehicles from either side

Arguments Commonly Raised for Blocking an Intersection

General information: arguments drivers commonly raise for this code section. Whether any applies depends on your own facts.

Space on the other side

CVC 22526(a) applies when there is not sufficient space on the other side to accommodate the vehicle without obstructing through traffic. Describe the traffic beyond the intersection when you entered.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

✗Assuming the ticket adds a DMV point: CVC 22526 adds none (Vehicle Code 12810.4)
✗Leaving out the traffic beyond the intersection when you entered

What this code section covers (general information)

CVC 22526(a) — Blocking an Intersection. Entering an intersection or marked crosswalk, even on a signal to proceed, without enough space on the other side for your vehicle without blocking the through passage of vehicles from either side.

Eligible for Trial by Written Declaration: generally yes.

This is general information about CVC 22526(a). It is not advice about your citation, and TicketClear does not evaluate anyone's facts. Whether any of it applies depends on your own facts. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed California attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blocking an Intersection

Can I get this ticket if my light was green?▼

Yes. CVC 22526(a) applies notwithstanding any official traffic control signal indication to proceed.

Ready to prepare your documents?

Upload your citation and TicketClear prepares your Trial by Written Declaration documents from the details you provide. Just $49.99 for any eligible California ticket.

Check if my ticket qualifies

Takes 2 minutes. No payment required to check.

Related Violations

CVC 21453(a)CVC 22526(d)