Installation of crosswalks is governed by the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD), Section 3B.18, and the California Vehicle Code, Section 21106, subject to engineering judgement at specification locations. Typical crosswalk locations fall into one of two categories: at a signalized or stop-controlled intersection, or at a non-intersection (mid-block) location. Additional specific design standards are applicable for crosswalks near schools.
The purpose of crosswalks is to direct and channelize pedestrian traffic, and the MUTCD is clear that installation of crosswalks should be primarily at those locations where vehicular traffic control is already provided (signalized and stop-controlled intersections). Crosswalks at non-intersection locations are generally discouraged, particularly on roadways with higher speeds and more than two lanes, as the crosswalk can give a false sense of safety and actually increase risk to pedestrians.
