Changes to Saskatoon traffic bylaw means no stopping or parking near crosswalks

Some new rules to Saskatoon’s Traffic Bylaw No. 7200 mean that drivers can’t stop or park near many marked crosswalks anymore.

The changes mean drivers can’t stop or park within 15 metres in front of a marked crosswalk, or 10 metres behind one.

The amendments were passed in late March after a review began in April of 2023. Nathalie Baudais, the city’s transportation department engineering manager, says it was to align with council policy and national guidelines, and for safety reasons.

“We’re always looking at ways to improve safety in the city, and improving visibility at corners where pedestrians will be crossing was important to increase safety,” she said.

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Baudais said there won’t be changes to signs at all of the marked crosswalks, so drivers need to pay attention.

“It would be pretty cost prohibitive to put signs at all of the marked crosswalks in the city,” she added.

There are some exceptions to the new bylaw rules, though.

“Where we have existing signs in place, the signs kind of take precedence over the bylaw. So if the distances with the signage are slightly different than the bylaw, then the signage is what drivers should be following,” she explained.

That includes areas where parking may be allowed within the 15- and 10-metre distances.

“If the sign is there, you can follow the sign,” said Baudais.

The parking enforcement department will be managing the marked crosswalks and will respond on a complaint basis. If someone is found to be violating the new stopping/parking bylaw, the fine is $100 or $50 if paid within 14 days.