Santa Maria, CA Parking Rules: Loading Zones (2026)

In unincorporated Santa Barbara County, loading zones are created and regulated through the County Code and reflected in curb markings. Under County Code Section 23-11, the Board of Supervisors may by resolution establish parking regulations, crosswalks, and loading zones on county highways; once designated, they take effect when signs or markings are posted. Section 23-305 specifically addresses the regulation of truck loading zones. The meaning of curb-color loading designations comes from California Vehicle Code Section 21458, which the County applies: a yellow curb means stopping only for loading or unloading passengers or freight (for the time the local authority sets), and a white curb means stopping only for loading or unloading passengers or to deposit mail. A loading zone is reserved for vehicles actively engaged in loading or unloading and may not be used for general parking. In County off-street parking facilities, Ordinance 5163 requires vehicles to stay within marked stalls and posted time limits (Sec. 12A-23), and storage uses are prohibited. Because the specific permitted time in any loading zone is set by the posted sign or curb-color rule, drivers should follow the posting at each location in addition to the general truck loading-zone regulation. Off-street loading for commercial and industrial development is also addressed through the County's zoning code so that loading is designed onto the site where required.