Del Norte County, CA Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules (2026)

Unincorporated Del Norte County is largely rural, and the County does not have an extensive painted-curb program; many county roads lack curbs entirely. Where curb markings exist, their meaning comes from the California Vehicle Code rather than a unique county color code. Under Vehicle Code Section 21458, when local authorities mark curbs the statewide colors apply: red means no stopping, standing, or parking; yellow is for loading or unloading freight or passengers for the time signed; white is for loading and unloading passengers or mail for a limited time; green is for limited-time parking as posted; and blue is reserved for parking by a disabled person or driver of a disabled person displaying a placard or plate. Vehicle Code Section 21458 also provides that these colored markings are effective only when authorized by the local authority and applied to curbs or markings, which means a private individual cannot paint a curb red or otherwise to create an enforceable restriction. Property owners who want a curb marked (for example a red zone at a hazardous driveway or intersection on a county road) should request it through the County Public Works Department, which controls markings on county-maintained roads. Painting or altering curb markings on a public road without authorization is itself improper and unenforceable. For disabled-parking and loading needs, rely on Vehicle Code color meanings and official signage rather than self-applied paint.