TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

FOR THE

UNITED STATES CAPITOL GROUNDS

PROMULGATED BY

THE CAPITOL POLICE BOARD

UNITED STATES CAPITOL

WASHINGTON, D.C.

FINAL PUBLICATION

JANUARY 2, 2024
CAPITOL POLICE BOARD

UNITED STATES CAPITOL

WASHINGTON, D.C.

JUNE 1, 2014

WHEREAS it has been the long-standing intent and practice of Congress to retain 

exclusive control over the United States Capitol Buildings and Grounds;

WHEREAS said intent is reflected in the delegation of authority granted to the Capitol 

Police Board by Public Law 570, 79th Congress, approved July 31, 1946, as amended, which:

- VESTS the Capitol Police Board with exclusive charge and control of the regulation 

and movement of all vehicular and other traffic within Capitol Grounds, including 

parking and impounding of vehicles and limiting the speed thereof; 

- AUTHORIZES AND EMPOWERS the Capitol Police Board to make and enforce all 

necessary regulations for such purposes;

- AUTHORIZES AND EMPOWERS the Capitol Police Board to prescribe penalties for 

violation of such regulations not to exceed a fine of $300 or imprisonment for not 

more than ninety (90) days;

- AUTHORIZES AND EMPOWERS the Capitol Police Board to promulgate and amend such 

regulations from time to time whenever the Board shall deem it necessary; and,

- PROVIDES THAT certain parts of the District of Columbia Traffic Act of 1925, as 

amended, for the violation of which specific penalties are provided in said Act, shall 

be applicable to Capitol Grounds.

WHEREAS, in the interest of securing public safety and for protection against personal 

injury or damage to property and while taking into account the unique nature, circumstances and 

law enforcement needs on Capitol Grounds;

WHEREAS, it is the sense of the Board that continuity with local traffic regulations is 

desired to the greatest extent possible:
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, pursuant to the authority granted to it by

Public Law 570, 70th Congress, approved July 31, 1946, as amended, the Capitol Police Board 

hereby:

- RESCINDS the Traffic and Motor Vehicle Regulations for the United States Capitol 

Grounds (June 1, 1983) and any amendments made thereto;

- REVISES the Traffic and Motor Vehicle Regulations for the United States Capitol 

Grounds by updating existing provisions and providing for specific traffic regulations 

unique to Capitol Grounds;

- RENAMES the Traffic and Motor Vehicle Regulations for the United States Capitol 

Grounds to “Traffic Regulations for the United States Capitol Grounds,” to reflect the 

inclusion of pedestrian and other miscellaneous vehicle regulations;

- DIRECTS the Executive Assistant of the Capitol Police Board to publish the Capitol 

Police Board Code of Traffic Regulations for the United States Capitol Grounds in 

conformance with 2 U.S.C. § 1969(c);

Adopted by the Capitol Police Board by unanimous vote on August 13, 2013

EFFECTIVE DATE: This revised Capitol Police Board Code of Traffic Regulations 

for the United States Capitol Grounds is hereby adopted and shall become effective 

after the expiration of ten days after the date of publication in one of more of the 

daily newspapers published in the District of Columbia at which time the existing 

traffic regulations shall no longer be in effect and shall be rescinded. 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

i

ARTICLE I: GENERAL PROVISIONS

CHAPTER 1. APPLICABILITY AND ENFORCEMENT

CHAPTER 2. TRAFFIC SIGNS SIGNALS AND DEVICES

CHAPTER 3. EQUIPMENT

CHAPTER 4. INSPECTION STICKER REQUIREMENTS

CHAPTER 5. IDENTIFICATION TAGS

ARTICLE II: MOTOR VEHICLES

CHAPTER 6. CRIMINAL DRIVING OFFENSES

CHAPTER 7. MOVING 

CHAPTER 8. PARKING, STANDING AND STOPPING 

CHAPTER 9. TAXICABS AND VEHICLES FOR HIRE

CHAPTER 10. FUNERALS

ARTICLE III: PEDESTRIANS, BICYCLES AND OTHER TRAFFIC

CHAPTER 11. PEDESTRIANS

CHAPTER 12. DEMONSTRATIONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

CHAPTER 13. BICYCLES

CHAPTER 14. PEDICABS

CHAPTER 15. LOW-SPEED VEHICLES

CHAPTER 16. RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS WITHIN CAPITOL 

GROUNDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS

ii

ARTICLE I: GENERAL PROVISIONS

CHAPTER 1. APPLICABILITY AND ENFORCEMENT

§1.1. AUTHORITY

§1.2. PURPOSE

§1.3. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC REGULATIONS 

§1.3.10. Required Compliance with Traffic Regulations

§1.3.20. Failure to Comply with a Lawful Order

§1.4. APPLICABILITY

§1.4.10. General

§1.4.20. Exemptions for Authorized Employees and Vehicles

§1.4.30. Presumption of Ownership

§1.4.40. Parental Negligence

§1.4.50. Waiver

§1.5. DUTIES AND PRIVILEGES FOR AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES

§1.5.10. Privileges

§1.5.20. Audible Warning Signal Required

§1.5.30. Reckless Driving

§1.5.40. Compliance with Regulations and Directives

§1.6. PENALTIES

§1.6.10. Fines and Imprisonment

§1.7. ADJUDICATION

§1.7.10. D.C. Traffic Violations

§1.7.20. Hill-Specific Violations

§1.8. IMPOUNDMENT

§1.8.10. Motor Vehicles May be Impounded for Violations

(a) Incapacitated Driver

(b) Obstruction

(c) Parking Violations

(d) Abandoned vehicles

(e) Excess of Meter

(f) Tow Zone

(g) Incident to Arrest

§1.8.20. Bicycles, Pedicabs and Low-Speed Vehicles may be Impounded for 

Violations
TABLE OF CONTENTS

iii

CHAPTER 2. TRAFFIC SIGNS SIGNALS AND DEVICES

§ 2.1. GENERAL

§2.1.10. Placement and Maintenance of Traffic Control Devices

§2.1.20. Exclusive Control

§2.1.30. Obedience to Traffic Signs, Signals or Devices

§2.1.40. Exemption for Illegible Signs

§2.1.50. Interference with Traffic Control Devices

§ 2.2. UNAUTHORIZED TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES, MARKINGS AND SIGNS

§2.2.10. Unauthorized Signs

§2.2.20. No Notice Required 

§ 2.3. DRIVER OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS 

§2.3.10. Placement and Maintenance

§2.3.20. Obedience to all Traffic Signs

§2.3.30. Green Signal 

§2.3.40. Green Arrow

§2.3.50. Steady Yellow Signal

§2.3.60. Steady Yellow Arrow

§2.3.70. Steady Red Signal

§2.3.80. Steady Red Arrow

§2.3.90. Proper Stopping

§ 2.4. DRIVER OBEDIENCE TO FLASHING RED AND YELLOW SIGNALS 

§2.4.10. Obedience to Signals

§2.4.20. Red Flashing Signal

§2.4.30. Yellow Flashing Signal

§2.4.40. Yellow Arrow

§2.4.50. Failure to Yield

§ 2.5. DRIVER OBEDIENCE TO LANE-USE CONTROL SIGNALS

§2.5.10. General 

§2.5.20. Downward Green Arrow

§2.5.30. Steady Yellow X

§2.5.40. Flashing Yellow X

§2.5.50. Steady Red X

§2.5.60. Traffic Controls Remain in Effect

§ 2.6. PEDESTRIAN OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS

§2.6.10. Application

§2.6.20. Green Signal

§2.6.30. Steady Yellow Signal

§2.6.40. Steady Red Signal

§2.6.50. Vertical Green or Thru Arrow

§ 2.7. PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS 

§2.7.10. Application

§2.7.20. Walk Signal

§2.7.30. No Crossing
TABLE OF CONTENTS

iv

CHAPTER 3. EQUIPMENT

§ 3.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§3.1.10. Scope and Effect of Regulations

(a) Application 

(b) Non-Conventional Design 

(c) Additional Equipment

(d) Exemptions

§3.1.20. Incorporation by Reference

§3.1.30. Certification of Compliance

§ 3.2. UNSAFE VEHICLES

§3.2.10. Unsafe Mechanical Condition

§ 3.3. LAMPS AND LIGHTING EQUIPMENT

§3.3.10. Applicability

(a) Visibility

(b) Height 

(c) As Enumerated

§3.3.20. Headlights Required

§3.3.30. Lamp Equipment 

§3.3.40. Clearance Lamps

§3.3.50. Extended Load 

(a) Additional Red Light 

(b) Red Flag or Cloth

§3.3.60. Windshield Wipers

§ 3.4. HEADLAMPS

§3.4.10. Two Headlamps Required

§3.4.20. Front Headlamps Required

§3.4.30. Motorcycles and Motorized Bicycles

§ 3.5. TAIL LAMPS

§3.5.10. Rear Tail Lamp Required

§3.5.20. Two Tail Lamps Required

§3.5.30. Mounted Height

§3.5.40. Tags to be Illuminated 

§3.5.50. Front and Rear Lighting

§ 3.6. STOP LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS AND REFLECTORS

§3.6.10. Stop Lamps 

(a) Vehicles Manufactured before 1957

(b) Vehicles Manufactured after 1957

(c) Truck Tractors

(d) Motorcycle

§3.6.20. Electric Turn Signals 

§3.6.30. Rear Reflectors

§3.6.40. Mounted Height for Reflectors
TABLE OF CONTENTS

v

§ 3.7. ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED ON TOW TRUCKS AND CRANES

§3.7.10. Warning Lamp

§3.7.20. Top Warning Lamps

§3.7.30. Rear Warning Lamps

§3.7.40. Single Warning Lamp 

§3.7.50. Visibility

§ 3.8. COLOR AND MOUNTING OF CERTAIN REFLECTORS, CLEARANCE LAMPS, SIDE 

MARKER LAMPS AND BACKUP LAMPS

§3.8.10. Front Clearance and Marker Lamps

§3.8.20. Rear Clearance and Marker Lamps 

§3.8.30. Rear Lighting and Reflectors

§3.8.40. Clearance and Side Marker Lamps

§3.8.50. Conformance to SAE Standards 

§ 3.9. VISIBILITY OF REFLECTORS, CLEARANCE LAMPS AND MARKER LAMPS

§3.9.10. Visibility

§3.9.20. Front and Side Reflectors

§3.9.30. Front and Rear Clearance Lamps

§3.9.40. Side Marker Lamps

§ 3.10. SPOT LAMPS AND AUXILIARY LAMPS

§3.10.10. Spot Lamps

§3.10.20. Fog Lamps

§3.10.30. Auxiliary Passing Lamps

§3.10.40. Auxiliary Driving Lamps

§ 3.11. AUDIBLE AND VISUAL SIGNALS ON EMERGENCY VEHICLES

§3.11.10. Authorized Emergency Vehicles

§3.11.20. Unauthorized Use of a Siren

§ 3.12. SIGNAL LAMPS AND SIGNAL DEVICES

§3.12.10. Stop Lamps

§3.12.20. Turning Lamps

§3.12.30. Placement of Turning Lamps

§3.12.40. Turning Indicator

§3.12.50. Glaring Light 

§ 3.13. ADDITIONAL LIGHTING EQUIPMENT 

§3.13.10. Fender Lamps

§3.13.20. Running-Board Courtesy Lamp

§3.13.30. Back-Up Lamps

§3.13.40. Warning Lamps

(a) Authorized Vehicles

(b) Placement of Front Warning Lamps 

(c) Placement of Rear Warning Lamps 

(d) Warning Light Visibility 

(e) Warning Lamp Indicator

(f) Visibility of Warning Lamp Indicator 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

vi

§ 3.14. MULTIPLE-BEAM ROAD LIGHTING EQUIPMENT

§3.14.10. Arrangement of Lamps

§3.14.20. Maximum Light Density

§3.14.30. Minimum Light Density

§3.14.40. Beam Indicator

§3.14.50. Low Beams Required

§3.14.60. Exception for Vehicles Manufactured before 1950

§ 3.15. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHTING EQUIPMENT

§3.15.10. Candlepower Limit

§3.15.20. Maximum Four Lamps Permitted

§3.15.30. Front Red Lights Prohibited

§3.15.40. Flashing Lights Prohibited

§ 3.16. BRAKES

§3.16.10. Trailers

§3.16.20. Service Brakes

§3.16.30. Parking Brakes

§3.16.40. Good Working Order

§ 3.17. HORNS AND WARNING DEVICES

§3.17.10. Audible Horn

§3.17.20. Unreasonably Loud Horns

§3.17.30. Audible Warning

§3.17.40. Permissible Horns

§3.17.50. Theft Alarm System

§ 3.18. WINDSHIELDS AND MIRRORS

§3.18.10. Signs and Posters

§3.18.20. Mechanical Defrost

§3.18.30. Windshield Wipers

§3.18.40. Good Working Order

§3.18.50. Cracked Windshield

§3.18.60. Reflective Mirrors

§ 3.19. TIRE EQUIPMENT

§3.19.10. Unsafe Tires

§3.19.20. Tire Thickness

§3.19.30. Bald Tires

§3.19.40. Protuberance

§3.19.50. Permissible Uses

§ 3.20. BUMPERS AND FENDERS

§3.20.10. Front Bumper Required

§3.20.20. Rear Bumper Required

§3.20.30. Fender Required

§3.20.40. Sharp Edges 

§3.20.50. Extended Fenders Prohibited
TABLE OF CONTENTS

vii

§ 3.21. WINDOW GLAZING MATERIALS 

§3.21.10. Safety Glazing Materials

§3.21.20. Safety Glazing Materials Defined

§3.21.30. Rigid-Type Plastic Windows

§3.21.40. Flexible-Type Plastic Windows

§ 3.22. TINTED WINDOWS 

(a) Motor Vehicles

(b) Mini-Vans

(c) Permissible Tinting

§ 3.23. MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT

§3.24.10. Speedometer Required

§3.24.20. Television Equipment

§3.24.30. Radar Detectors and Jammers

§ 3.24. SEAT BELTS

§3.24.10. Definitions

§3.24.20. Seat Belt Required

§3.24.30. Liability

§3.24.40. Compliance with Standards

§3.24.50. Vehicles for Hire

§ 3.25. CHILD RESTRAINT

§3.25.10. Definitions

§3.25.20. Requirements

(a) Children Under Three 

(b) Children Under Sixteen

(c) Exception

§ 3.26. EXHAUST EMISSION SYSTEMS

§3.26.10. Good Working Order

§3.26.20. Pollution Control System

§3.26.30. Visible Smoke and Fumes
TABLE OF CONTENTS

viii

CHAPTER 4. INSPECTION STICKER REQUIREMENTS

§ 4.1. GENERAL 

§4.1.10. Inspection of Equipment

§ 4.2. INSPECTION STICKERS

§4.2.10. District of Columbia Residents

§4.2.20. Non-Residents

§4.2.30. Exemptions

§ 4.3. DETACHED AND CONDEMNED STICKERS

§4.3.10. Detachment Mutilation and Loss

§4.3.20. Operating with Condemned Sticker

CHAPTER 5. IDENTIFICATION TAGS

§ 5.1. PROPER DISPLAY OF TAGS

§5.1.10. Vehicles Registered in the District of Columbia

§5.1.20. Miscellaneous Vehicles

§5.1.30. Non-Resident Tags

§5.1.40. Swinging Tags 

§5.1.50. Illegible Tags

§5.1.60. Emblems 

§5.1.70. Validation Stickers

§5.1.80. Tag Coverings 

§ 5.2. REGISTRATION AND RECIPROCITY REQUIREMENTS

§5.2.10. General

§ 5.3. FAILURE TO SURRENDER

§5.3.10. Identification Tags

§5.3.20. Special License Tags or Parking Permit

§ 5.4. IMPROPER USE OF TAGS

§5.4.10. Lending Tags and Registration

§5.4.20. Dealer Tags
TABLE OF CONTENTS

ix

ARTICLE II: MOTOR VEHICLES

CHAPTER 6. CRIMINAL DRIVING OFFENSES

§ 6.1. PENALTIES

§ 6.2. SPEEDING AND RECKLESS DRIVING

§6.2.10. Reckless Driving

§6.2.20. Aggravated Reckless Driving

§ 6.3. FLEEING FROM A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER IN A MOTOR VEHICLE

§6.3.10. Definitions

§6.3.20. Fleeing

§ 6.4. LEAVING AFTER COLLIDING

§ 6.5. OBJECT FALLING OR FLYING FROM VEHICLE

§ 6.6. NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE

§6.6.10. Negligent Homicide

§6.6.20. Negligent Homicide Included in Manslaughter

§6.6.30. Immoderate Speed not Dependent on Legal Rate of Speed

§ 6.7. IMPAIRED OPERATING AND DRIVING

§6.7.10. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or a Drug

§6.7.20. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or a Drug: Commercial 

Vehicles

§6.7.30. Operating a Vehicle While Impaired

§6.7.40. Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol or a Drug: Horse-Drawn 

Vehicle

§6.7.50. Additional Penalties

(a) Commercial Vehicles

(b) Driving with a Minor

CHAPTER 7. MOVING 

§7.1. GENERAL

§7.1.10. Applicability

§7.1.20. Operator Responsibilities

§ 7.2. SPEED RESTRICTIONS

§7.2.10. Maximum Lawful Speed on Streets and Highways

§7.2.20. Maximum Lawful Speed in Driveways, Garages and under Archways

§7.2.30. Reasonable Speed for Conditions

§7.2.40. Duty of Due Care

§7.2.50. Excessive Speeding 

§ 7.3. MINIMUM SPEED RESTRICTIONS

§7.3.10. Reduced Speed Required

§7.3.20. Impeding Traffic 

§ 7.4. PROPER USE OF THE ROADWAYS

§7.4.10. Drive on Right Side of the Road
TABLE OF CONTENTS

x

§7.4.20. Slow-Moving Vehicles Stay to the Right

§7.4.30. Passing Vehicles Proceeding in Opposite Directions

§7.4.40. Following too Close

§7.4.50. Sufficient Space between Vehicles

§7.4.60. Failure to Clear an Intersection

§ 7.5. DESIGNATED ROADWAYS

§7.5.10. One-way Traffic

§7.5.20. Multiple-Lane Roadways

§7.5.30. Divided Roadways

§7.5.40. Driving through Median Prohibited
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xi

§ 7.6. OVERTAKING AND PASSING

§7.6.10. Application

§7.6.20. Overtaking Vehicle to Pass on Left

§7.6.30. Driving on Left Side of Roadway

§7.6.40. Overtaken Vehicle to Give Way

§7.6.50. Passing on the Right

§7.6.60. Unsafe Passing on the Right

§7.6.70. Unsafe Passing on the Left

§7.6.80. Return after Overtaking

§7.6.90. Overtaking Bicycles

(a) Bicycle Lanes 

(b) 3 Foot Distance 

§ 7.7. TURNING AT INTERSECTIONS

§7.7.10. Application

§7.7.20. Right Turns

§7.7.30. Left Turn from a Two-way Street onto a Two-way Street

§7.7.40. Left Turn from a Two-Way Street onto a One-Way Street

§7.7.50. Left Turn from a One-Way Street onto a One-way street 

§7.7.60. Left Turn from a One-Way Street onto a One-way Street

§7.7.70. Cut-Off Roadways

§7.7.80. Unbalanced Traffic Lanes

§7.7.90. Improper Turning

§ 7.8. TURNING REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS

§7.8.10. Turning Around before a Curve or Crest of Grade 

§7.8.20. Safe Turn Required

§7.8.30. Proper Turn Signal

§7.8.40. Intention to Turn 

§7.8.50. Obedience to Traffic Markers

§7.8.60. Obedience to Signs 

§7.8.70. U-Turn at an Intersection

§7.8.80. Turning in Opposite Direction

§ 7.9. PROPER SIGNALS FOR TURNING AND STOPPING

§7.9.10. Proper Signals 

§7.9.20. Signal Equipment Required 

§7.9.30. Signal from the Left of the Vehicle

§ 7.10. STARTING, STOPPING AND BACKING

§7.10.10. Safe Starting

§7.10.20. Sudden Stops or Decrease of Speed

§7.10.30. Backing up Safely
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xii

§ 7.11. RIGHT OF WAY

§7.11.10. Driver Responsibility to Yield

(a) Emerging from a Private Road or Driveway 

(b) Yield to Pedestrians on Sidewalk

(c) Entering or Crossing a Roadway

§7.11.20. Intersections

(a) Vehicle Turning Left 

(b) Same-Time Approach 

(c) Approaching from Opposite Direction 

§7.11.30. Stop and Yield Signs

(b) Approaching a Stop Sign

(b) When Stopped at a Stop Sign

(c) Approaching a Yield Sign

§7.11.40. Other Areas

(a) Entering a Traffic Circle 

(b) Entering a Freeway

§7.11.50. Pedestrians

(a) Marked or Unmarked Crosswalks

(b) Crossing on “Walk” Signal 

§7.11.60. School Buses

(a) Flashing Warning Light 

(b) Wait to Proceed

§ 7.12. EMERGENCY VEHICLES AND FIRE TRUCKS

§7.12.10. Move-over Law

§7.12.20. Duty of Care 

§7.12.30. Following Fire Truck

§7.12.40. Driving over Fire Hose

§ 7.13. COASTING

§7.13.10. Motor Vehicles

§ 7.14. OBSTRUCTION AND PASSENGER INTERFERENCE

§7.14.10. Loaded Vehicle 

§7.14.20. Excess Passenger Obstruction

§7.14.30. Passenger Interference

§7.14.40. Full Time and Attention

§7.14.50. Running Boards

§7.14.60. Designated Passenger Areas 

§7.14.70. Suspended Objects

§ 7.15. OPEN DOORS AND BOARDING 

§7.15.10. Boarding in Motion

§7.15.20. Swinging Doors 

§7.15.30. Open Doors
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xiii

§ 7.16. RIDING ON MOTORCYCLES

§7.16.10. General

§7.16.20. Passengers 

§7.16.30. Protective Helmet Required

§7.16.40. Protective Gear

§ 7.17. RESTRICTED STREETS

§7.17.10. Closed Streets

§7.17.20. Driving over Barriers

§7.17.30. Bus Restrictions

§ 7.18. TRUCKS 

§7.18.10. Truck Interdiction 

§ 7.19. SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTES

§7.19.10. Effective Tires 

§7.19.20. Parking Prohibition

§ 7.20. MISCELLANEOUS MOVING INFRACTIONS

§7.20.10. Unnecessary Noise

§7.20.20. Parallel Parking

§7.20.30. Driving over Sidewalks 

§7.20.40. Fixed Objects

§7.20.50. Overtaking a Stopped Vehicle 

§7.20.60. Littering from Vehicle

§ 7.21. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN MOTOR VEHICLES 

§7.21.10. Open Container

§7.21.20. Trunk Cargo or Storage Area

§7.21.30. Closed Containers

§7.21.40. Definitions
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xiv

CHAPTER 8. PARKING, STANDING AND STOPPING 

§8.1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

§8.1.10. Applicability

(a) Time Stated 

(b) Exceptions

(c) Most Restrictive Provisions Apply 

§8.1.20. Presumption in Reference to Illegal Parking

§ 8.2. PROPER PARKING

§8.2.10. No Parking in Violation of Signs

§8.2.20. Park in the Direction of Traffic

§8.2.30. Park within 12” of Curb

(a) Two-Way Streets 

(b) One-Way Streets 

§8.2.40. Left-Side Parking Prohibited

§8.2.50. Motorcycle Parking

§ 8.3. GENERAL PARKING

§8.3.10. Unpaved Areas

§8.3.20. Parking for Permit-Holders Only

§8.3.30. Park between the Lines

§8.3.40. Parking between Two Vehicles

§8.3.50. Reserved Parking Spaces for Disabled Individuals

§ 8.4. NO SIGN REQUIRED: STOPPING, STANDING AND PARKING

§ 8.5. NO SIGN REQUIRED: STANDING OR PARKING ONLY

§ 8.6. NO SIGN REQUIRED: PARKING ONLY

§ 8.7. OVERSIZED VEHICLES

§ 8.8. LOADING AND UNLOADING: VEHICLES

§8.8.10. Discharging Passenger

§8.8.20. Impeding Traffic

§8.8.30. Momentary Stopping Permitted

§ 8.9. LOADING AND UNLOADING: SCHOOL BUSES

§8.9.10. Discharging Passengers

§8.9.20. Flashing White Lights Required

§8.9.30. Flashing Red Stop Light Required

§ 8.10. LOADING ZONES

§8.10.10. Establishment of Loading Zones and Applicability

§8.10.20. Loading Restricted to Marked Loading Zones

§8.10.30. Reasonable Time Limit on Loading

§8.10.40. Meter Fare Required 

§8.10.50. Time Limit

§8.10.60. Expired Meter

§8.10.70. Permissible Parking Times
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xv

§ 8.11. PARKING METERS AND PARKING METER ZONES

§8.11.10. Parking Meter Zone

§8.11.20. Parking Prohibited

§8.11.30. No Parking Past Meter Limit

§8.11.40. Park within Marked Area

§8.11.50. No Parking beyond Zone

§8.11.60. Display of Receipt

§8.11.70. Purchasing Beyond Time Limit

§8.11.80. Illegal Parking

§8.11.90. No Charge Required

§8.11.100. Unexpired Time is Transferrable

§8.11.110. Exception for Government Vehicles

§ 8.12. RESTRICTED USE OF VALET PARKING, VALET STAGING, BUS, TAXICAB AND 

SIGHTSEEING ZONES AND STANDS

§8.12.10. General

(a) No Parking or Standing 

(b) Discharge of Passengers Permitted

§8.12.20. Driver to Remain near Vehicle

§8.12.30 Bus Zone Restrictions

§8.12.40. Parking Restrictions Effective at all Times 

§ 8.13. EMERGENCY PARKING PERMITS

§8.13.10. Permissible Parking

§8.13.20. Parking for Emergency Purposes Only

§8.13.30. Permit must be Visible

§8.13.40. Transfer Prohibited

§8.13.50. Failure to Surrender 

§ 8.14. RESIDENTIAL PERMIT PARKING

§8.14.10. 2 Hour Parking Limit

§8.14.20. Proper Affixation

§8.14.30. No Time Limit

§8.14.40. Visibility and Display

(a) Vehicles

(b) Motorcycles 

(c) Expired Stickers 

§8.14.50. Validity

§8.14.60. One Permit per Vehicle

§8.14.70. Parking or Standing Prohibited

§8.14.80. Permissible Parking

§8.14.90. Transfer of Stickers Prohibited

§ 8.15. VISITOR OR TEMPORARY PERMITS

§8.15.10. Replication Unlawful
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xvi

§ 8.16. TEMPORARY AND EMERGENCY PARKING RESTRICTIONS

§8.16.10. Assemblies

§8.16.20. Construction

§8.16.30. Parades

§8.16.40. Emergencies

§8.16.50. Proper Display of Parking Permit Placards

(a) Placard: Proper Display

(b) Stickers: Display and Expiration

§8.16.60. Tampering with Signs

(a) Installation and Removal

(b) Vandalizing

(c) No Parking in Violation of Signs

§8.16.70. Advance Notice Waiver

§ 8.17. OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PARKING

§8.17.10. Proper Display

§ 8.18. STREET CLEANING PARKING PROVISIONS

§8.18.10. No Parking

§ 8.19. SNOW EMERGENCY PARKING REGULATIONS

§8.19.10. Snow Emergency Routes

§ 8.20. LITTERING AND DEBRIS

§8.20.10. Glass and Other Debris

§8.20.20. Failure to Remove Harmful Material

§8.20.30. Towing and Removal of Wrecked Vehicles

§ 8.21. ADVERTISING

§8.21.10. General

§8.21.20. De Minimus Display

§ 8.22. MISCELLANEOUS NON-MOVING VIOLATIONS

§8.22.10. Unattended Vehicles

§8.22.20. Turning Wheels to Curb

§8.22.30. Idle Engine

§8.22.40. Display of Sale and Repair
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xvii

CHAPTER 9. TAXICABS AND VEHICLES FOR HIRE

§ 9.1. APPLICABILITY

§ 9.2. FAILURE TO GIVE RECEIPT UPON REQUEST

§ 9.3. DISPLAY OF IDENTIFICATION

§9.3.10. Failure to Display

§9.3.20. Failure to Make Available for Inspection

§9.3.30. Identification must be Visible to Passenger

§9.3.40. Removal from Unattended Vehicles 

§9.3.50. Passenger Rights Display

§ 9.4. SOLICITING PASSENGERS

§9.4.10. Soliciting Prohibited

§9.4.20. Loitering

§9.4.30. Refusal to Haul

§9.4.40. Exceptions

§9.4.50. Held for Hire

§9.4.60. Availability

§9.4.70. Refusal of Service 

§ 9.5. ON-CALL AND OFF-DUTY SIGNS

§9.5.10. “On Call” Display

§9.5.20. “Off Duty” Display

§9.5.30. Proper Placement of Signs

§9.5.40. Signs must be Secured When Not in Use

§ 9.6. CRUISING LIGHTS

§9.6.10. Cruising Light Required

§9.6.20. Cruising Light must be Illuminated

§9.6.30. Lights On “On Call”

§9.6.40. Lights Off “On Duty”

§9.6.50. Proper Working Condition

§ 9.7. TAXICAB STANDS

§9.7.10. Available for Hire

§9.7.20. Loitering

§9.7.30. Blocking at Taxicab Stands Prohibited

§9.7.40. Parking Regulations Apply to Stands

§ 9.8. OPERATION OF TAXICABS

§9.8.10. Hack License and Permit Required

§9.8.20. Safe Operation and Obedience to Laws

§9.8.30. No Loading in a Crosswalk

§9.8.40. Pulling to Curb
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xviii

§ 9.9. MANIFEST RECORD

§9.9.10. Maintenance

§9.9.20. Contents 

§9.9.30. Accuracy 

§9.9.40. Alteration 

§ 9.10. VEHICLES FOR HIRE AND SIGHTSEEING VEHICLES

§9.10.10. Identification License

§9.10.20. Operator License

§9.10.30. Sightseeing Vehicles

§ 9.11. LIMOUSINES 

§9.11.10. License Required

§9.11.20. Identification Requirements 

CHAPTER 10. FUNERALS

§ 10.1. PERMIT REQUIRED

§10.1.10. No Funeral Processions through Capitol Square

§ 10.2. RESPONSIBILITIES OF FUNERAL PROCESSION MEMBERS

§10.2.10. Stay to the Right

§10.2.20. Proceeding through an Intersection

§10.2.30. Headlight Display

§10.2.40 Display of Headlights on Return

§ 10.3. DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES

§10.3.10. Driving through a Funeral Procession
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xix

ARTICLE III: PEDESTRIANS, BICYCLES AND OTHER TRAFFIC

CHAPTER 11. PEDESTRIANS

§ 11.1. GENERAL

§11.1.10. Pedestrians Subject to Traffic Regulations

§11.1.20. Pedestrian Identification

(a) Identification for Infraction Only 

(b) Penalty

§ 11.2. RIGHT-OF-WAY IN CROSSWALKS

§11.2.10. Application

§11.2.20. Jaywalking

§11.2.30. Obedience to Signals

§ 11.3. NON-CROSSWALK CROSSING

§11.3.10. Application

§11.3.20. Yield to Vehicular Traffic

§11.3.30. Proper Crossing

§ 11.4. SIDEWALKS AND ROADWAYS

§11.4.10. Stay to the Right

§11.4.20. Must use Sidewalks

§11.4.30. Stay to Left of Roadway

§11.4.40. Hitchhiking

§11.4.50. Move-over Law

CHAPTER 12. DEMONSTRATIONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

§ 12.1. DEMONSTRATION ACTIVITY 

§12.1.10. Definition

§12.1.20. Applicability

§12.1.30. Exemptions for Special Events

(a) Band Concerts

(b) Louisiana Avenue

(c) Tour Groups

(d) Ceremonial Events and Entertainment

§ 12.2. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

§12.2.10. Permissible Demonstration Areas

§12.2.20. Prohibited Demonstration Areas
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xx

§ 12.3. PERSONS OR GROUPS OF THIRTY PERSONS OR LESS

§12.3.10. No Permit Required

§12.3.20. Availability

§12.3.30. Permit Encouraged

§12.3.40. Prohibitions

(a) Segmenting from the Group

(b) Interference 

(c) Density

(d) Seven Day Limitation

(e) Continuous Daily Demonstration

§12.3.40. Applicability of Other Sections. 

§ 12.4. GROUPS OF OVER THIRTY PERSONS 

§12.4.10. Permit Required for Groups of Over Thirty

§12.4.20. Permit Applications

(a) Advance Notice 

(b) Contents

(c) Waiver 

§12.4.30. Processing Applications and Issuance of permits

(a) Approval

(b) Issuance

(c) Contents

(d) Tacit Approval

§12.4.40. Terms and Conditions

(a) Area

(b) Density

(c) Seven Day Limitation

(d) Continuous Daily Demonstration Prohibited

§12.4.50. Groups to Remain in Assigned Areas

§12.4.60. Revocation for Non-Compliance or for Cause

§ 12.5. PROPS AND EQUIPMENT

§12.5.10. General

(a) Definition 

(b) Height Restriction 

(c) Stages, Risers and Platforms

(d) Unattended Props and Equipment

(e) Removal 

(f) Twenty Four Hour Limitation

(g) Conclusion

§12.5.20. Additional Requirements for Permit Applicants

§ 12.6. SIGNS, BANNERS AND PLACARDS

§ 12.7. TEMPORARY STRUCTURES 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxi

§ 12.8. AMPLIFICATION AND OTHER NOISE DISTURBANCES

§12.8.10. Amplification Equipment

§12.8.20. Sound Projection

§12.8.30. Unamplified Disturbances

§ 12.9. ROAD RACES

§12.9.10. Definition

§12.9.20. Permit Required from Neighboring Agency

§12.9.30. Sundays 

§12.9.40. No Re-Tracing on Capitol Grounds

§12.9.50. Capitol Square

§12.9.60. Designated Route

§ 12.10. MARCHES

§12.10.10. Prior Permit Required

§12.10.20. Authorized Route

§ 12.11. DAMAGE TO CAPITOL GROUNDS 

§12.11.10. Restoration of Grounds

§ 12.12. PERSONAL ACTIVITIES

§ 12.13. ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS

CHAPTER 13. BICYCLES

§ 13.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§13.1.10. Application

§13.1.20. Bicycle Defined

§13.1.30. Tampering Prohibited

§ 13.2. HIGHWAYS AND SIDEWALKS

§13.2.10. Riding on Sidewalks 

§13.2.20. Obedience to Traffic Control Devices

§13.2.30. Duties of Bicycle Operators

§ 13.3. SAFE RIDING

§13.3.10. Safe Operation

§13.3.20 Seat Required

§13.3.30 Extra Riders

§13.3.40. Carrying Articles

§13.3.50. Warning Device

§13.3.60. No Clinging 

§13.3.70. Riding Abreast

§13.3.80. Overtaking and Passing

§13.3.90. Riding Into Path of Vehicle 

§ 13.4. RIGHT OF WAY

§13.4.10. Yield to Pedestrians on Sidewalk

§13.4.20. Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalk

§13.4.30. Emerging and Entering
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxii

§ 13.5. BICYCLE SAFETY EQUIPMENT

§13.5.10. Bicycle Brake

§13.5.20. Front Lamp on Bicycle

§13.5.30. Rear Lamp on Bicycle

§13.5.40. Body Lamp on Bicycle Operators

§13.5.60. Prohibition on Sirens

§ 13.6. PARKING AND SECURING BICYCLES

§13.6.10. Permissible Bicycle Parking 

§13.6.20. Parked Bicycles

§13.6.30. Twenty-Four Hour Time Limitation

§13.6.40. Secured Bicycle Cannot Impede Traffic

§13.6.50. Securing Bicycles Prohibited in Certain Areas

§13.6.60. Buildings and Improved Areas

CHAPTER 14. PEDICABS

§ 14.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§14.1.10. Application

§14.1.20. Pedicab Defined

§ 14.2. HIGHWAYS AND SIDEWALKS

§14.2.20. Public Roads

§14.2.20. Obedience to Traffic Control Devices

§14.2.30. Duties of Bicycle Operators

§ 14.3. SAFE RIDING

§14.3.10. Applicability of Bicycle Regulations

§14.3.20. Safe Operation

(a) Passenger Limit

(b) Passengers must be Seated

(c) Seatbelts

(d) 30 MPH Speed Limit

(e) Sidewalks

(f) Loading

(g) Loading

(h) Parking

(i) Securing

(j) Headlamps

(k) Tail Lamps

§14.3.30. Driving while Impaired
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxiii

§ 14.4. SAFETY EQUIPMENT

§14.4.10. Safety Requirements

(a) Width

(b) Length

(c) Equipment

1. Seatbelts

2. Brakes

3. Head Lamps

4. Tail Lamps 

5. Turning Lights

6. Audible Signal

7. Reflectors

(d) Reflexive Tape

CHAPTER 15. LOW-SPEED VEHICLES

15.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§15.1.10. Application

§15.1.20. Low-Speed Vehicles Defined

§15.1.30 Tampering Prohibited

§ 15.2. GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

§15.2.10. Reasonable and Prudent Speed

§15.2.20. Safe Operation

§13.2.30. Obedience to Traffic Control Devices 

§15.2.40. Duties of Low-speed Vehicle Operators

§ 15.3. SEGWAYS

§15.3.10. Registration

§15.3.20. Age

§15.3.30. Maximum Speed Limit

§15.3.40. Packages

§15.3.50. Headphones

§15.3.70. Riding on Sidewalks

§15.3.80. Yield to Pedestrians on Sidewalk

§15.3.90. Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalk

§15.3.100. Emerging and Entering
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxiv

§ 15.4. MOTORIZED BICYCLES

§15.4.10. Minimum Age 

§15.4.20. Sidewalks

§15.4.30. Roadway

§15.4.40. Seat Required

§15.4.50. Extra Riders

§15.4.60. Carrying Articles

§15.4.70. Warning Device

§15.4.80. No Clinging 

§15.4.90. Riding Abreast

§15.4.100. Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalk

§15.4.120. Emerging and Entering

§15.4.130. Overtaking and Passing

§ 15.5. ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES AND DIRTBIKES

§15.5.10. Prohibited

§15.5.20. Penalties

§ 15.6 PARKING AND SECURING LOW-SPEED VEHICLES ON PUBLIC SPACE 

§15.6.10. Buildings and Improved Areas
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxv

CHAPTER 16. RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS WITHIN CAPITOL 

GROUNDS

§ 16.1. LEGAL DEFINITION OF CAPITOL GROUNDS

§ 16.2. PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION 

§16.2.10. Restriction on Public Use

§16.2.20. Property Damage

§16.2.30. Climbing and Swinging 

§16.2.40. Standing on Skylights and Entry into Work Areas 

§16.2.50. Swimming and Entry into Pools

§16.2.60. Skating and Play Vehicles

§16.2.70. Game-Playing 

§16.2.80. Kite-Flying

§16.2.90. Model Rockets and Boats

§16.3. CROWD CONTROL

§16.3.10. Establishing a Police Line

§16.3.20. Obey an Order 

§16.3.30. Unauthorized Entry 

§16.3.40. Blocking and Obstructing Roadways

§ 16.4. SLEEPING OR LYING DOWN 

§16.4.10. Paved or Improved Areas

§16.4.20. Unpaved and Grassy Areas

§ 16.5. WINTER ACTIVITIES

§16.5.10. Snowmobiling

§16.5.20. Sledding

§16.5.30. Skiing

§16.6. CAMPING 

§16.6.10. Camping Defined

§16.6.20. Camping Prohibited

§16.6.30. Storage of Personal Belongings

§ 16.7. DRIVING INTO RESTRICTED AREAS

§16.7.10. Sidewalk and Non-roadway Areas

§16.7.20. East Front Plaza

§ 16.8. ANIMALS WITHIN CAPITOL GROUNDS

§16.8.10. Non-Domesticated Animals

§16.8.20. Leash Law

§ 16.9. METAL DETECTORS

§ 16.10. OPEN FLAMES, GAS GENERATORS AND OTHER INCENDIARY DEVICES

§16.10.10. Open Flames

§16.10.20. Incendiary Device 

§16.10.30. Gas Generators 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxvi

§ 16.11. RESTRICTED VEHICLES

§16.11.10. Commercial Vehicles

§16.11.20. Animal Drawn Vehicles 

§ 16.12. SALE OF GOODS, COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AND SOLICITATION

§16.12.10. Conveyance of Goods and Merchandise

§16.12.20. Vending

§16.12.30. Commercial Advertising 

§16.12.40. Solicitation 

§ 16.13. TRIPODS AND PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT

§ 16.14. TEMPORARY CLOSING OR CORDONING OFF OF CAPITOL GROUNDS

CHAPTER 17

UNION SQUARE..........................................................................

17.1. GENERAL PROHIBITION OF COMMERCIAL 

 ACTIVITY.................................................................

17.2. UNION SQUARE.........................................................

17.3. AUTHORITY OF THE UNITED STATES 

 CAPITOL POLICE BOARD............................................

17.4. COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIY..........................................

17.5. PERMITS...................................................................

17.6. PROHIBITED ITEMS AND ACTIVITIES...........................

17.7. SECURITY ASSESSMENTS...........................................

17.7.1. SECURITY ASSESSMENT............................................

17.7.2. INSPECTIONS............................................................

17.8. PERMIT FEES.............................................................

17.8.1. PERMIT FEES............................................................

17.8.2. APPROVAL OF THE FEE STRUCTURE............................

17.8.3. REVIEW OF THE FEE STRUCTURE................................

17.8.4. CAPITOL TRUST ACCOUNT.........................................

17.8.5. USE OF FUNDS.........................................................

17.8.6. PUBLICATION OF FEES...............................................

XXIV
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxvii

17.9. FEE SCHEDULE AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS...............

17.9.1. STILL PHOTOGRAPHY FEES........................................

17.9.1.1 STILL PHOTOGRAPHY FEES: SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHY 

COMPANIES......................................................................

17.9.2. FILMING FEES..........................................................

17.9.3. BOND......................................................................

17.9.4. INSURANCE..............................................................

17.10. DENIAL OF PERMIT APPLICATION.............................

17.10.1. DENIAL OF PERMIT APPLICATION.............................

17.10.2. RESUBMISSION........................................................

17.10.3. APPEAL..................................................................

APPENDICES .....................................................................................A1

APPENDIX A-DEFINITIONS ...........................................................A|3

APPENDIX B-2 USC 1969

AUTHORITY TO REGULATE TRAFFIC...........................A|13

APPENDIX C-1

D.C CODE 10-503.25............................................................A|17

APPENDIX C-2

D.C CODE 50-2301.01 .........................................................A|21

APPENDIX C-3

D.C CODE 50-2302.01 .........................................................A|25

APPENDIX C-4

D.C CODE 50-2303.01 .........................................................A|29

APPENDIX C-5-18

DCMR 3003.01 .....................................................................A|31

APPENDIX D-1

TRAFFIC REGULATIONS BY BOARD ...........................A|33

APPENDIX D-2

CONDUCT OF PROSECUTIONS......................................A|37

APPENDIX E

TRUCK INTERDICTION REGULATIONS .....................A|45

APPENDIX F

40 USC 5104 .......................................................................A|49

APPENDIX G

DEMONSTRATION MAP .................................................A|55

APPENDIX H

CASE LAW SUMMARIES ................................................A|57

APPENDIX I

40 USC 5102 .......................................................................A|61

APPENDIX J

POLICE BOARD REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO

FIREARMS EXPLOSIVES INCENDIARY DEVICES AND
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxviii

OTHER DANGEROUS WEAPONS (1967). .....................A|81

MAPS.................................................................................................121

BOUNDARY OF EXTENDED JURISDICTION

U.S. CAPITOL POLICE...............................................................................A|85

PROPERTIES UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF

ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL ..............................................................A|86

U.S CAPITOL COMPLEX..........................................................................A|87
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxix
TABLE OF CONTENTS

xxx

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A. Definitions

APPENDIX B. 2 U.S.C. § 1969 (Regulation of Traffic by Capitol Police Board)

APPENDIX C. Adjudication of Traffic Offenses in the District of Columbia 

APPENDIX C-1. D.C. Code § 10-503.25 (Regulation of Traffic by the Capitol 

Police Board)

APPENDIX C-2. D.C. Code § 50-2301.01 (Purposes)

APPENDIX C-3. D.C. Code § 50-2302.01 (Adjudication of Moving Infractions)

APPENDIX C-4. D.C. Code § 50-2303.01 (Adjudication of Parking and Pedestrian 

Infractions)

APPENDIX C-5. 18 DCMR § 3003.1. (Empowers the Capitol Police to Issue 

Notices of Infraction on Capitol Grounds)

APPENDIX D. Prosecution of Traffic Offenses in the District of Columbia

APPENDIX D-1. D.C. Code § 10-503.25 (Traffic Regulations by the Capitol Police 

Board)

APPENDIX D-2. D.C. Code § 23-101 (“Conduct of Prosecutions”)

APPENDIX E. Capitol Police Board Truck Interdiction Regulations

APPENDIX F. 40 U.S.C. § 5104 (“Unlawful Activities”)

APPENDIX G. U.S. Capitol Grounds Map of Permissible Demonstration Areas

APPENDIX H. Case Law Summary of Constitutional Challenges to the Capitol Police 

Board Traffic Regulations

APPENDIX I. 40 U.S.C. § 5102 (“Legal Description and Jurisdiction of United States 

Capitol Grounds”)

APPENDIX J. Police Board Regulations Pertaining to Firearms, Explosives, Incendiary 

Devices and Other Dangerous Weapons (October 31, 1967)

ARTICLE I

GENERAL PROVISIONS
CHAPTER 1

APPLICABILITY AND ENFORCEMENT

§ 1.1. AUTHORITY

The Capitol Police Board has exclusive charge and control over the regulation and 

movement of all vehicular and pedestrian traffic on Capitol Grounds. This includes 

the authority to promulgate and enforce regulations; to impound vehicles; and to 

impose speed limitations.1

§ 1.2. PURPOSE

These regulations are set forth in order to: provide for the safety of all persons on 

Capitol Grounds; to prevent destruction or damage to Capitol Grounds; to preserve 

healthy and sanitary surroundings; and, to maintain Capitol Grounds in an attractive 

and intact condition for the enjoyment of all visitors.

§ 1.3. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

§1.3.10. REQUIRED COMPLIANCE WITH TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

It is unlawful for any person to do any act forbidden or fail to perform any 

act required by these regulations. 

§1.3.20. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH A LAWFUL ORDER

No person shall fail or refuse to comply with any lawful order or 

directions of any police officer or other individual vested by law with the 

authority to direct, control, or regulate traffic. This subsection shall apply 

to pedestrians and to operators of any type of vehicle referenced in these 

regulations.

1 2 USC § 1969(a), Pub. L. No 79-570, § 14(a) (July 31, 1946):

“The Capitol Police Board, consisting of the Sergeant at Arms of the United States Senate, the Sergeant at 

Arms of the House of Representatives, and the Architect of the Capitol, shall have exclusive charge and 

control of the regulation and movement of all vehicular and other traffic, including the parking and 

impounding of vehicles and limiting the speed thereof, within the United States Capitol Grounds; and said 

Board is hereby authorized and empowered to make and enforce all necessary regulations therefor...”

See Appendix B.
§ 1.4. APPLICABILITY

§1.4.10. GENERAL

The provisions of these regulations shall apply to any operator of any 

motorized vehicle operating on Capitol Grounds, except where 

otherwise indicated.

2

§1.4.20. EXEMPTIONS FOR AUTHORIZED EMPLOYEES AND VEHICLES

The provisions of these regulations that restrict activities performed by 

authorized Congressional employees within the scope of their official 

duty shall not be applicable. 

§1.4.30. PRESUMPTION OF OWNERSHIP

When applicable, the owner of a vehicle shall be presumed to be the 

operator when any violations of these regulations may occur, unless he 

or she proves to the contrary.

§1.4.40. PARENTAL NEGLIGENCE

The parent of any child and the guardian of any ward shall not 

authorize or knowingly permit any such child or ward to violate any of 

the provisions of the regulations. 

§1.4.50. WAIVER

The Board is authorized to waive any restriction or prohibition 

contained in these regulations as it deems necessary for the safety and 

security of those persons on Capitol Grounds. 

2 Duties for bicycles, pedicabs and low-speed vehicles are set forth in their respective chapters. 
§ 1.5. DUTIES AND PRIVILEGES FOR AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES

§1.5.10. PRIVILEGES

The driver of an authorized emergency vehicle may do any of the 

following:

(a) Park or stand, irrespective of the limitations set forth in these 

regulations;

(b) Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, but only after 

slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation;

(c) Exceed the prima facie speed limit so long as it does not 

endanger life or property, with the exception of ambulances; 

and,

(d) Disregard regulations governing direction of movement or 

turning in specified directions. 

The above privileges may be exercised in the following circumstances:

(a) When responding to an emergency call;

(b) When in pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law; 

or,

(c) When responding to, but not upon returning from, a fire alarm. 

§1.5.20. AUDIBLE WARNING SIGNAL REQUIRED

The exemptions granted in this section to an authorized emergency 

vehicle shall only apply when:

(a) While in motion, the driver of the vehicle sounds an audible 

signal by bell, siren, or exhaust whistle; and, 

(b) The vehicle is equipped as specified in §3.12 of these 

regulations. 3

§1.5.30. RECKLESS DRIVING

The provisions of this section shall not relieve the driver of an 

authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard 

for the safety of all persons, nor shall these provisions protect the 

driver from the consequences of his reckless disregard for the safety of 

others. 

§1.5.40. COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATIONS AND DIRECTIVES

The operation of authorized emergency vehicles shall be consistent 

with Capitol Police Department Regulations and Directives. 

3 §3.12 (“Audible and Visual Signals on Emergency Vehicles”).
§ 1.6. PENALTIES

§1.6.10. FINES AND IMPRISONMENT

Penalties for the violations set forth in these regulations are not to 

exceed a fine of $300 or imprisonment for over ninety (90) days, with 

the exception of those penalties for offenses which originate from the 

District of Columbia Traffic Act of 1925 and are set forth by the 

District.

4

§ 1.7. ADJUDICATION

§1.7.10. D.C. TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

A violation of these regulations which mirrors an existing regulation in 

the District will be prosecuted in accordance with District law.5

§1.7.20. HILL-SPECIFIC VIOLATIONS

Prosecutions for violation of regulations that are only applicable 

within Capitol Grounds shall be prosecuted by the District of 

Columbia Office of the Attorney General.6 

4 2 USC § 1969(a), Pub. L. No 79-570, §14(a) (July 31, 1946): 

“The Capitol Police Board...is hereby authorized...to prescribe penalties for violation of such regulations, 

such penalties not to exceed a fine of $ 300 or imprisonment for not more than ninety days...those 

provisions of the District of Columbia Traffic Act of 1925...for the violation of which specific penalties are 

provided in said Act...shall be applicable to United States Capitol Grounds....”

See Appendix B. 

See D.C. Code § 50-2201.01 et seq. for a current listing of traffic regulations that originate from the District of 

Columbia Traffic Act of 1925.

5 See Appendix C for a listing of the statutes that, read together, set forth the adjudication of the minor and 

criminal traffic offenses in the District of Columbia. 6 D.C. Code § 10-503.25(a); D.C. Code § 23-101:

Prosecutions for violations issued by the Capitol Police Board that do not mirror an already- existing 

offense in the District are prosecuted by the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, who has 

jurisdiction over police and municipal ordinances which carry a maximum punishment of a fine only 

or imprisonment not exceeding one year. 

See Appendix D.
§ 1.8. IMPOUNDMENT AND REMOVAL

§1.8.10. MOTOR VEHICLES MAY BE IMPOUNDED FOR VIOLATIONS7

Members of the United States Capitol Police are authorized to

issue a notice of parking violation and may authorize the removal of a 

vehicle from any public way to a city vehicle pound or authorized 

garage or any other legal parking space in the public way under the 

following circumstances:

(a) INCAPACITATED DRIVER. When a vehicle upon any public way 

is so disabled as to constitute an obstruction to traffic and the 

person or persons in charge of the vehicle are by reason of 

physical injury incapacitated to such an extent as to be unable 

to provide for its custody or removal;

(b) OBSTRUCTION. When an unattended vehicle is lawfully parked 

so as to constitute a hazard or obstruction to the normal 

movement of traffic;

(c) PARKING VIOLATIONS. When an unattended vehicle is found 

parked:

1. On a sidewalk, bicycle path, parkway, bridge or in 

an underpass;

2. Within 20 feet of a fire hydrant, in a fire lane, or 

under a fire escape;

3. Illegally in a space designated for persons with 

disabilities;

4. On an alley with less than 10 feet on either side;

5. In a loading zone or common carrier vehicle stop;

6. In violation of posted signs when snow 

accumulation is equal to or greater than 2 inches, or

7. Upon a roadway for the purpose of displaying the 

vehicle for sale.

7 2 USC § 1969(a), Pub. L. No 79-570, §14(a) (July 31, 1946): 

“The Capitol Police Board shall have . . . exclusive charge and control of the regulation and movement 

of traffic . . . including the parking and impounding of vehicles . . . [.]”

See Appendix B.
(d) ABANDONED VEHICLES. When a vehicle has been abandoned 

or found to be a hazardous dilapidated motor vehicle;

(e) EXCESS OF METER. When a vehicle illegally occupies a 

parking meter space for more than 24 hours;

(f) TOW ZONE. When an unattended vehicle is parked illegally in 

an officially designed and marked “tow zone;”

(g) INCIDENT TO ARREST. When towing or removal is necessary as 

an incident to an arrest.

§1.8.20. BICYCLES, PEDICABS AND LOW-SPEED VEHICLES MAY BE IMPOUNDED FOR 

VIOLATIONS

The Board may cause the removal and impoundment of any bicycle, 

pedicab, or low-speed device that is found in violation of or being 

operated in violation of these regulations. Such item shall be removed, 

transported to, and impounded in or at, any place designated by the Board. 
CHAPTER 2

TRAFFIC SIGNS, SIGNALS, SYMBOLS AND DEVICES

§ 2.1. GENERAL

§2.1.10. PLACEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES

The Board shall place and maintain traffic control devices upon all 

streets, highways, and driveways within Capitol Grounds to:

(a) Indicate and carry out the provisions of these regulations; 

(b) To regulate, warn, and to guide traffic; and,

(c) To establish official parking spaces and areas as the Board 

deems necessary.

§2.1.20. EXCLUSIVE CONTROL

No person or authority shall place or maintain any traffic control 

device upon any street or highway within the Capitol Grounds except 

by permission of the Board. This subsection does not apply to the 

streets adjacent to Capitol Grounds under the control and jurisdiction 

of the Director of the District of Columbia.

§2.1.30. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC SIGNS, SIGNALS OR DEVICES

The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any official 

traffic control device placed in accordance with these regulations 

unless an exception is granted by the Board or unless otherwise 

directed by a police officer. Whenever these regulations state that a 

sign is not required, such section shall be effective even though no 

signs are erected or in place.

§2.1.40. EXEMPTION FOR ILLEGIBLE SIGNS

No provision of these regulations for which signs are required shall be 

enforced against an alleged violator if an official sign is not in proper 

position and sufficiently legible to be seen by an ordinarily observant 

person at the time and place of the alleged violation.

§2.1.50. INTERFERENCE WITH TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES

No person shall alter, deface, injure, knock down, remove, or attempt 

to do any of these acts to an official traffic control device without 

lawful authority to do so. 
§ 2.2. UNAUTHORIZED TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES, MARKINGS AND SIGNS

§2.2.10. UNAUTHORIZED SIGNS

No person shall place, maintain, or display upon or in view of any 

highway any unauthorized sign, signal, marking, or device which:

(a) Purports to be, is an imitation of, or resembles an official 

traffic control device; 

(b) Attempts to direct the movement of traffic; or

(c) Interferes with the effectiveness of any official traffic control 

device or hides it from view. 

§2.2.20. NO NOTICE REQUIRED 

The Board does not have to provide notice before removing any 

prohibited sign, signal, marking or device. Any sign, signal, marking, 

or device prohibited by these regulations is hereby declared to be a 

public nuisance.
§ 2.3. DRIVER OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS 

§2.3.10. PLACEMENT AND MAINTENANCE

Whenever traffic is controlled by traffic control signals exhibiting the 

words “GO,” “CAUTION,” or “STOP,” or exhibiting different colored 

lights, arrows, or combinations of lights and arrows successively one 

at a time, only those colors set forth in this section shall be used, and 

the terms and lights shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles as 

set forth in this section. 

§2.3.20. OBEDIENCE TO ALL TRAFFIC SIGNS

In the event an official traffic control signal is erected and maintained 

at a place other than an intersection, the provisions of this section shall 

be applicable, except those provisions which by their nature could 

have no application. 

§2.3.30. GREEN SIGNAL

The color GREEN alone or the word “GO” on a traffic control signal 

shall have the following meaning:

(a) Vehicular traffic facing the GREEN or “GO” signal may proceed 

straight through or turn right or left unless a sign at such place 

prohibits a turn in either direction or both directions; and

(b) Vehicular traffic, including vehicles turning right or left, shall 

yield the right-of-way to other vehicles and to pedestrians 

lawfully within the intersection or an adjacent crosswalk at the 

time the GREEN or “GO” signal is exhibited.

§2.3.40. GREEN ARROW

A GREEN ARROW shall have the following meaning:

(a) Vehicular traffic facing such signal may cautiously enter the 

intersection only to make the movement indicated by the 

arrow; and

(b) Vehicles shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully 

within a crosswalk and to other traffic lawfully using the 

intersection. 
§2.3.50. STEADY YELLOW SIGNAL

A STEADY YELLOW SIGNAL alone shall have the following meaning:

(a) Vehicular traffic facing a steady yellow signal is thereby 

warned that a related green signal is being terminated or that a 

red signal will be exhibited thereafter, or both; and

(b) Vehicular traffic shall stop before entering the nearest 

crosswalk of the intersection, unless so close to the intersection 

that a stop cannot safely be made.

§2.3.60. STEADY YELLOW ARROW

A STEADY YELLOW ARROW shall have the following meaning:

(a) Vehicular traffic facing the signal is warned that vehicular 

movement in the direction that the arrow is pointing is about to 

be terminated by means of a steady full red, a steady red arrow, 

or simply by the green arrow being turned off; and

(b) Vehicular traffic shall stop before entering the nearest 

crosswalk at the intersection, unless so close to the intersection 

that a stop cannot safely be made. 

§2.3.70. STEADY RED SIGNAL

A STEADY RED SIGNAL alone or the word “STOP” shall have the 

following meaning:

(a) Vehicular traffic facing the signal shall stop before entering the 

crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then 

before entering the intersection;

(b) Stopped vehicles shall remain standing until green, green 

arrow, or flashing yellow is shown, except as provided in 

paragraph (c) of this subsection; and

(c) A vehicle facing a steady red signal may cautiously enter the 

intersection to turn right after stopping. The vehicle shall yield 

right-of-way to pedestrians within an adjacent crosswalk and to 

other traffic lawfully using the intersection. 

§2.3.80. STEADY RED ARROW

A STEADY RED ARROW shall have the following meaning:

(a) Vehicular traffic facing the signal destined to proceed in the 

direction that the arrow is pointing shall stop before entering 

the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, 

the vehicle shall stop before entering the intersection; and

(b) The vehicle shall remain standing until a green arrow or 

flashing yellow arrow is shown. 

§2.3.90. PROPER STOPPING

Any stop required shall be made at a sign or marking on the pavement 

indicating where the stop shall be made. In the absence of any sign or 

marking, the stop shall be made at the signal. 
§ 2.4. DRIVER OBEDIENCE TO FLASHING RED AND YELLOW SIGNALS 

§2.4.10. OBEDIENCE TO SIGNALS

Whenever flashing red, yellow, or yellow arrow signals are used they 

shall require obedience by vehicular traffic as set forth in this section. 

§2.4.20. RED FLASHING SIGNAL

When a RED lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, drivers 

of vehicles shall stop before entering the nearest crosswalk at an 

intersection or at a limit line when marked, or, if none, then before 

entering the intersection, and the right to proceed shall be subject to 

the rules applicable after making a stop at a “STOP” sign. 

§2.4.30. YELLOW FLASHING SIGNAL

When a YELLOW lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, 

drivers of vehicles may proceed through the intersection or past the 

signal only with caution. 

§2.4.40. YELLOW ARROW

When a YELLOW ARROW is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, 

vehicular traffic facing such indication may cautiously enter the 

intersection to make the movement indicated by such arrow, but shall 

yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within a crosswalk, and to any 

vehicle lawfully in the intersection or approaching on another highway 

so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard. 

§2.4.50. FAILURE TO YIELD

After a driver has yielded at a flashing yellow arrow in accordance 

with §2.4.40, the driver may proceed, and the drivers of all other 

vehicles approaching the intersection shall yield to the vehicle so 

proceeding. If the driver is involved in a collision with a pedestrian in 

a crosswalk or a vehicle in the intersection after making the movement 

indicated by a flashing yellow arrow without stopping, such collision 

shall be deemed prima facie evidence of failure to yield right-of-way. 
§ 2.5. DRIVER OBEDIENCE TO LANE-USE CONTROL SIGNALS

§2.5.10. GENERAL

The meanings of lane-use control signals and the requirements for 

obedience to such signals are set forth in this section.

§2.5.20. DOWNWARD GREEN ARROW

A steady DOWNWARD GREEN ARROW means that a driver is permitted 

to drive in the lane over which the arrow signal is located.

§2.5.30. STEADY YELLOW X

A steady YELLOW X means that a driver should prepare to vacate, in a 

safe manner, the lane over which the signal is located because a lane 

control change is being made, and to avoid occupying that lane when a 

steady RED X is displayed. 

§2.5.40. FLASHING YELLOW X

A flashing YELLOW X means that a driver is permitted to use a lane 

over which the signal is located for a left turn, using proper caution. 

§2.5.50. STEADY RED X

A steady RED X means that a driver shall not drive in the lane over 

which the signal is located. This indication shall modify the meaning 

of all other traffic controls present. 

§2.5.60. TRAFFIC CONTROLS REMAIN IN EFFECT

When lane-use control signals are in use, drivers shall obey all other 

traffic controls and follow normal safe driving practices. 

§ 2.6. PEDESTRIAN OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS

§2.6.10. APPLICATION

Whenever traffic is controlled by traffic control signals exhibiting the 

words “GO,” “CAUTION,” OR “STOP,” or exhibiting different colored 

lights successively one at a time, or with arrows, the terms and lights 

shall apply to pedestrians as set forth in this section. 

§2.6.20. GREEN SIGNAL

Pedestrians facing a GREEN SIGNAL or the word “GO,” my proceed 

across the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk, except 

where special pedestrian control signals show a “DON’T WALK” signal. 

§2.6.30. STEADY YELLOW SIGNAL

Pedestrians facing a STEADY YELLOW SIGNAL are thereby advised that 

there is insufficient time to cross the roadway, and any pedestrian then 

starting to cross shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles. 

§2.6.40. STEADY RED SIGNAL

Pedestrians facing a STEADY RED SIGNAL or the word “STOP” shall not 

enter the roadway, except where special pedestrian control signals 

show a “WALK” signal. 

§2.6.50. VERTICAL GREEN OR THRU ARROW

Pedestrians facing a vertical GREEN OR “THRU” ARROW may proceed 

across the roadway in any marked or unmarked crosswalk. 

§ 2.7. PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS 
§2.7.10. APPLICATION

Whenever special pedestrian control signals exhibiting the words 

“WALK,” “DON’T WALK,” OR “WAIT” are in place, such signals shall 

indicate and apply to pedestrians as set forth in this section. 

§2.7.20. WALK SIGNAL

Pedestrians facing a “WALK” signal may proceed across the roadway 

in the direction of the signal and shall be given the right-of-way by the 

drivers of all vehicles. 

§2.7.30. NO CROSSING

No pedestrian shall start to cross the roadway in the direction of a 

“DON’T WALK” or “WAIT” signal. 

CHAPTER 3

EQUIPMENT

§ 3.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§3.1.10. SCOPE AND EFFECT OF REGULATIONS

(a) APPLICATION. The rules and regulations contained in this 

chapter shall govern the requirements for equipment on 

vehicles using the streets and highways of Capitol Grounds. 

(b) NON-CONVENTIONAL DESIGN. Vehicles may be exempted 

from this chapter if the District of Columbia has found that a 

vehicle is not of conventional design and construction or if 

proof is offered that the equipment required by this chapter is 

not available for replacement purposes or cannot be made

available by the manufacturer. In either case, the vehicle must 

have an “approved” inspection sticker issued by the Director. 

(c) ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT. Nothing contained in this chapter 

shall be construed to prohibit the use of additional parts and 

accessories on any vehicle so long as they are consistent with 

the provisions of this chapter.

(d) EXEMPTIONS. Unless specifically provided for in this chapter, 

the provisions of this chapter which require equipment on 

vehicles shall not apply to an authorized official government 

vehicle that requires special equipment by design or function. 

§3.1.20. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The current edition of the District of Columbia Vehicle Inspection 

Lane Operator’s Manual or, when applicable, the American 

Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators Vehicle Operator’s 

Manual is incorporated by reference into this chapter. In case of

conflict between the provisions of the District of Columbia Vehicle 

Inspection Lane Operator’s Manual and those contained in this 

chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall be applicable. 

§3.1.30. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE

All motor vehicles must display a manufacturer's certification of 

compliance, attesting that the vehicle complies with federal safety 

standards for use on public roads, streets, and highways, as required by 

the National Traffic and Motor Safety Act of 1966;

8 except that 

mopeds need not display such certification of compliance.

8 40 U.S.C. § 5104(d).
§ 3.2. UNSAFE VEHICLES

§3.2.10. UNSAFE MECHANICAL CONDITION

No person shall operate or permit the operation or use of any vehicle 

on Capitol Grounds which is mechanically unsafe, improperly 

equipped or otherwise unfit to be operated. All equipment shall be in 

good working order and in proper condition and adjustment as 

required by this chapter.

§ 3.3. LAMPS AND LIGHTING EQUIPMENT

§3.3.10. APPLICABILITY

(a) VISIBILITY. The provisions of this chapter which set forth 

specific distances from which certain lamps and devices shall 

render objects visible or distances within which such lamps or 

devices shall be visible, shall apply during the times stated in 

this section with respect to a vehicle without load when upon a 

straight, level, unlighted highway under normal atmospheric 

conditions, unless a different time or condition is expressly 

stated.

(b) HEIGHT. The provisions of this chapter which require a 

specific mounted height of lamps or devices shall mean a 

distance measured from the center of the lamp or device to the 

level ground upon which the vehicle stands when the vehicle is 

without a load. 

(c) AS ENUMERATED. The sections of this chapter which relate to 

clearance and marker lamps, reflectors, and stop lights shall 

apply as stated in those sections to vehicles of the type 

enumerated in those sections; namely, passenger buses, trucks, 

truck trailers, and certain trailers, semi-trailers, and pole 

trailers, respectively, when operated upon any street or 

highway. 

§3.3.20. HEADLIGHTS REQUIRED

No person shall operate a vehicle on Capitol Grounds from one-half 

(1/2) hour after sunset to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise unless the 

lighted lamps and illuminating devices required by this chapter are 

properly displayed. Properly displayed lamps and illuminating devices 

are also required when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable 

atmospheric conditions, a person or vehicle on the highway is not 

clearly discernible at a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.).

§3.3.30. LAMP EQUIPMENT 

The vehicles cited in this section shall be equipped as required and all 

lamp equipment required shall be lighted at the times mentioned in this 

section. Clearance and side marker lamps need not be lighted where 

there is sufficient light to render persons and vehicles on the highway 

at a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.) clearly discernible. 
§3.3.40. CLEARANCE LAMPS

Whenever motor vehicles and other vehicles are operated in 

combination during the time when lights are required, any lamp 

(except tail lamps) need not be lighted which, by reason of its location 

on a vehicle of the combination, would be obscured by another vehicle 

of the combination. Lighted clearance lamps must still be displayed 

on the front of the foremost vehicle required to have clearance lamps, 

and all lights required on the rear of the rear most vehicle of any 

combination shall be lighted. 

§3.3.50. EXTENDED LOAD

(a) ADDITIONAL RED LIGHT. Whenever the load upon any vehicle 

extends to the rear four feet (4 ft.) or more beyond the bed or 

body of the loaded vehicle, there shall be a red light or lantern 

to the sides and rear displayed at the extreme rear end of the 

load and shall be plainly visible from distance of at least five 

hundred feet (500 ft.). This red light or lantern is required in 

addition to the red rear light required upon every vehicle. 

(b) RED FLAG OR CLOTH. At any other time when lights are not 

required, there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of the 

extended load a red flag or cloth not less than twelve inches 

square (12 in.) which is so hung that the entire area is visible to 

the driver of a vehicle approaching from the rear. 

§3.3.60. WINDSHIELD WIPERS

In addition to the requirements of subsection §3.3.10, whenever a 

motor vehicle’s windshield wipers are operated for a continuous 

period of time because of impaired visibility resulting from 

unfavorable atmospheric conditions, the vehicle headlamps shall also 

be lighted. 

(a) A violation of this subsection shall not constitute or be used as 

evidence of negligence or contributory negligence, limit 

liability of any party or insurer, or diminish the recovery for 

damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or 

operation of a motor vehicle.

(b) A police officer may enforce the provisions of this subsection 

only as a secondary action when the police officer detains a 

driver of a motor vehicle for a suspected violation of another 

traffic regulation. 
§ 3.4. HEADLAMPS

§3.4.10. TWO HEADLAMPS REQUIRED

Each motor vehicle other than a motorcycle or motorized bicycle shall 

be equipped with at least two (2) head lamps which shall comply with 

the requirements and limitations set forth in this chapter. 

§3.4.20. FRONT HEADLAMPS REQUIRED

Each motor vehicle required to have two (2) head lamps shall have at 

least one (1) head lamp on each side of the front of the motor vehicle. 

§3.4.30. MOTORCYCLES AND MOTORIZED BICYCLES

Each motorcycle and motorized bicycle shall be equipped with at least 

one (1) and not more than two (2) headlamps which shall comply with 

the requirements and limitations of this chapter. 

§ 3.5. TAIL LAMPS

§3.5.10. REAR TAIL LAMP REQUIRED

Each motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, pole trailer and any other 

vehicle which is being drawn at the end of a train of vehicles shall be 

equipped with at least one (1) tail lamp mounted on the rear. The lamp 

shall emit a red light plainly visible from a distance of five hundred 

feet (500 ft.) to the rear and only the tail lamp on the rear most vehicle 

need actually be seen.

§3.5.20. TWO TAIL LAMPS REQUIRED

Each vehicle of the types listed in §3.5.10 registered in the District of 

Columbia and manufactured or assembled after September 15, 1955; 

other than truck tractors manufactured or assembled prior to January 1, 

1968, motorcycles, and motorized bicycles; shall be equipped with at 

least two (2) tail lamps mounted on the rear, on the same level, and as 

widely spaced as practicable, which, when lighted as required, shall 

comply with the provisions of this section. 

§3.5.30. MOUNTED HEIGHT

Each tail lamp on each vehicle shall be located at a height of not more 

than seventy-two inches (72 in.) or less than fifteen inches (15 in.), 

measured from the center of the lamp to the level ground upon which 

the vehicle stands when the vehicle is without a load. 

§3.5.40. TAGS TO BE ILLUMINATED

Either a tail lamp or a separate lamp shall be so constructed and placed 

as to illuminate with a white light the rear registration plate and render 

it clearly legible from a distance of fifty feet (50 ft.) to the rear. 

§3.5.50. FRONT AND REAR LIGHTING

Any tail lamp or tail lamps, together with any separate lamp for 

illuminating the rear registration, shall be wired to be lighted whenever 

the head lamps or auxiliary driving lamps are lighted. 
§ 3.6. STOP LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS AND REFLECTORS

§3.6.10. STOP LAMPS

(a) VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BEFORE 1957. No motor vehicle, 

trailer, or semi-trailer manufactured or assembled before 

September 15, 1957 shall be operated on Capitol Grounds

unless it is equipped with at least one (1) stop lamp meeting the 

requirements of §3.13.

(b) VEHICLES MANUFACTURED AFTER 1957. No motor vehicle, 

trailer or semi-trailer manufactured on and after September 15, 

1957 shall be operated on Capitol Grounds unless it is 

equipped with at least two (2) stop lamps meeting the 

requirements of §3.13. 

(c) TRUCK TRACTORS. Truck tractors manufactured or assembled 

after September 15, 1957 but prior to January 1, 1968 shall be 

equipped with at least one stop lamp meeting the requirements 

of §3.13.

(d) MOTORCYCLES. Motorcycles and motorized bicycles shall be 

equipped with at least one (1) stop lamp meeting the 

requirements of §3.13.

§3.6.20. ELECTRIC TURN SIGNALS

No motor vehicle, trailer, or semi-trailer, manufactured or assembled 

on and after September 15, 1955 shall be operated on Capitol Grounds 

unless it is equipped with electric turn signals meeting the 

requirements of §3.13. Motor driven cycles which attain a speed of 

thirty miles per hour (30 mph) or less in a distance of one (1) mile, 

motorized bicycles and motorcycles shall be exempt from this 

requirement. 

§3.6.30. REAR REFLECTORS

Each new motor vehicle sold and operated upon a street or highway, 

other than a truck tractor, shall carry on the rear, either as part of the 

tail lamps or separately, two (2) red reflectors, except that each 

motorcycle and motorized bicycle shall carry at least one (1) reflector 

meeting the requirements of this section; and, provided, that vehicles 

of the type listed in §3.6 shall be equipped with reflectors as

specifically required in this chapter. 

§3.6.40. MOUNTED HEIGHT FOR REFLECTORS

Each reflector shall be mounted on the vehicle at a height not less than 

fifteen inches (15 in.) or more than sixty inches (60 in.) measured as

set forth in §3.3.10(b), and shall be of such size and characteristics and 

so mounted as to be visible at night from all distances within three 

hundred feet (300 ft.) to fifty feet (50 ft.) from the vehicle when 

directly in front of lawful upperbeams of head lamps, except that 

visibility from a greater distance is required of reflectors on certain 

types of vehicles.
§ 3.7. ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED ON TOW TRUCKS AND CRANES

§3.7.10. WARNING LAMP

Each tow crane or tow truck shall be equipped with flashing, blinking, 

or alternating warning lamp or lamps and the lamp or lamps shall only

be operated while at the scene of a disabled vehicle or while actually 

towing a disabled vehicle. Each warning lamp shall be of a type 

approved by the District of Columbia. 

§3.7.20. TOP WARNING LAMPS

When two (2) lamps are used to display the warning on a tow crane or 

tow truck, they shall be mounted at the same level on the top of the cab 

and as widely spaced laterally as practicable and shall display a 

flashing, blinking, or alternating white or amber light or any shade of 

color between white and amber to the front. 

§3.7.30. REAR WARNING LAMPS

The lamps used to display the warning to the rear on a tow crane or 

tow truck shall be mounted at the same level on the top of the cab and 

as widely spaced laterally as practicable and shall display a flashing, 

blinking, or alternating amber or red light or any shade of color 

between amber and red. 

§3.7.40. SINGLE WARNING LAMP 

When a single warning lamp is used on a tow crane or tow truck, it 

shall be mounted on the top of the cab as near center as practicable and 

shall display a flashing, blinking, or alternating white or amber light or 

any shade of color between white and amber to the front, and an amber 

or red light or any shade of color between amber and red to the rear. 

§3.7.50. VISIBILITY

The warning light or lights on a tow crane or tow truck shall be visible 

from a distance of not less than five hundred feet (500 ft.) under 

normal atmospheric conditions. 
§ 3.8. COLOR AND MOUNTING OF CERTAIN REFLECTORS, CLEARANCE LAMPS, SIDE 

MARKER LAMPS AND BACKUP LAMPS

§3.8.10. FRONT CLEARANCE AND MARKER LAMPS

Front clearance lamps and those marker lamps and reflectors mounted 

on the front or on the side near the front of a vehicle shall display or 

reflect an amber color. 

§3.8.20. REAR CLEARANCE AND MARKER LAMPS 

Rear clearance lamps and those marker lamps and reflectors mounted 

on the rear or on the sides near the rear of a vehicle shall display or 

reflect a red color. 

§3.8.30. REAR LIGHTING AND REFLECTORS

(a) All lighting devices and reflectors mounted on the rear of any 

vehicle shall display or reflect a red color. 

(b) The stop light or other signal device mounted on the rear of a 

vehicle may be red, amber, or yellow.

(c) The light illuminating the license plate shall be white.

(d) The light emitted by a back-up lamp shall be white. 

§3.8.40. CLEARANCE AND SIDE MARKER LAMPS

Clearance lamps shall be mounted on the permanent structure of the 

vehicle in a manner which will indicate the extreme width of the 

vehicle, and as near the top of the vehicle as practicable. Clearance 

lamps and side marker lamps may be mounted in combination so long 

as that illumination is given as required herein with reference to both 

and on buses when the outside windows are illuminated.

§3.8.50. CONFORMANCE TO SAE STANDARDS 

All reflectors, clearance lamps, and marker lamps shall conform to the 

standards and specifications of the Society of Automotive Engineers 

applicable to such equipment current at the time the devices are 

attached. 
§ 3.9. VISIBILITY OF REFLECTORS, CLEARANCE LAMPS AND MARKER LAMPS

§3.9.10. VISIBILITY

Each reflector on any vehicle referred to in §3.7 shall be of such size 

and characteristics and so maintained as to be readily visible at nighttime from all distances within five hundred feet (500 ft.) to fifty feet 

(50 ft.) from the vehicle when directly in front of upper beams of head 

lamps. 

§3.9.20. FRONT AND SIDE REFLECTORS

Reflectors required to be mounted on the front and sides of the vehicle 

shall reflect the required color of light to the front and sides, and those 

mounted on the rear shall reflect a red color to the rear. 

§3.9.30. FRONT AND REAR CLEARANCE LAMPS

Front and rear clearance lamps shall be capable of being seen and 

distinguished under normal atmospheric conditions at the times lights 

are required at a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.) from the front 

and rear of the vehicle. 

§3.9.40. SIDE MARKER LAMPS

Side marker lamps shall be capable of being seen and distinguished 

under normal atmospheric conditions at the times lights are required at 

a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.) from the side of the vehicle on 

which mounted. 
§ 3.10. SPOT LAMPS AND AUXILIARY LAMPS

§3.10.10. SPOT LAMPS

No motor vehicle shall be equipped with more than two (2) spot 

lamps. No part of the high-intensity portion of the beam shall be 

directed to the left of the prolongation of the extreme left side of an

approaching vehicle or more than one-hundred feet (100 ft.) ahead of 

the vehicle. 

§3.10.20. FOG LAMPS

No motor vehicle shall be equipped with more than two (2) fog lamps 

mounted on the front at a height not less than twelve inches (12 in.) or 

more than thirty inches (30 in.) above the level surface upon which the 

vehicle stands and so aimed that when the vehicle is not loaded none

of the high-intensity portion of the light to the left of the center of the 

vehicle shall at a distance of twenty-five feet (25 ft.) ahead project 

higher than a level of four inches (4 in.) below the level of the center 

of the lamp from which it comes. Lighted fog lamps meeting the 

above requirements may be used with lower head-lamp beams as 

specified in §3.15.

9 

§3.10.30. AUXILIARY PASSING LAMPS

No motor vehicle shall be equipped with more than two (2) auxiliary 

passing lamps mounted on the front at a height of not less than twentyfour inches (24 in.) or more than forty-two inches (42 in.) above the 

level surface upon which the vehicle stands. 

§3.10.40. AUXILIARY DRIVING LAMPS

No motor vehicle shall be equipped with more than two (2) auxiliary 

driving lamps mounted on the front at a height not less than twentyfour inches (24 in.) or more than forty-two inches (42 in.) above the 

level surface upon which the vehicle stands. 

9 §3.14 (“Multiple-Beam Road Lighting Equipment”).
§ 3.11. AUDIBLE AND VISUAL SIGNALS ON EMERGENCY VEHICLES

§3.11.10. AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES

Each authorized emergency vehicle shall, in addition to any other 

equipment and distinctive markings required by these regulations, be 

equipped with a siren, exhaust whistle or bell capable of giving a

signal audible from a distance of not less than five hundred feet (500

ft.) under normal conditions. There shall be at least one (1) lighted 

lamp displaying a red light capable of flashing alternately and that is 

visible under normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of five 

hundred feet (500 ft.) to the front of the vehicle. 

§3.11.20. UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A SIREN

Whenever an emergency vehicle is equipped with a siren, the siren 

shall not be used except when the vehicle is being operated in response 

to an emergency call; or in the immediate pursuit of an actual or 

suspected violator of the law, in which case, the driver of the vehicle 

shall sound the siren when necessary to warn pedestrians and other 

drivers of the approach of the vehicle. 
§ 3.12. SIGNAL LAMPS AND SIGNAL DEVICES

§3.12.10. STOP LAMPS

Any motor vehicle may be equipped and when required by these 

regulations shall be equipped, with a stop lamp or lamps on the rear of 

the vehicle which shall display a red or amber light, or any shade of 

color between red and amber, visible from a distance of not less than 

one-hundred feet (100 ft.) to the rear in normal sunlight, and which 

shall be actuated upon application of the service (foot) brake and 

which may be incorporated with one (1) or more other rear lamps. 

§3.12.20. TURNING LAMPS

Any motor vehicle may be equipped and when required shall be 

equipped with lamps showing to the front and rear for the purpose of 

indicating an intention to turn either to the right or left. 

§3.12.30. PLACEMENT OF TURNING LAMPS

When lamps are used for turn indicators, the lamps showing to the 

front shall be located on the same level and as widely spaced laterally 

as practicable, and when in use shall display a white or amber light, or 

any shade of color between white and amber, visible from a distance 

of not less than one-hundred feet (100 ft.) to the front in normal 

sunlight. The lamps showing to the rear shall be located at the same 

level and as widely spaced laterally as practicable, and when in use 

shall display a red or amber light, or any shade of color between red 

and amber, visible from a distance of not less than one-hundred feet 

(100 ft.) to the rear in normal sunlight. 

§3.12.40. TURNING INDICATOR

When actuated, turn indicator lamps shall indicate the direction of the 

intended turn by flashing the light showing to the front and rear on the 

side toward which the turn is going to be made. 

§3.12.50. GLARING LIGHT 

No stop lamp or signal lamp shall project a glaring light. 
§ 3.13. ADDITIONAL LIGHTING EQUIPMENT 

§3.13.10. FENDER LAMPS

No motor vehicle may be equipped with more than two (2) sidecowl or 

fender lamps. Each fender lamp shall emit a white or amber light 

without glare. 

§3.13.20. RUNNING-BOARD COURTESY LAMP

No motor vehicle may be equipped with more than one (1) runningboard courtesy lamp on each side of the vehicle. Each running-board 

courtesy lamp shall emit a white or amber light without glare. 

§3.13.30. BACK-UP LAMPS

No motor vehicle may be equipped with more than two (2) back-up 

lamps either separately or in combination with other lamps. The backup lamps shall not be lighted when the motor vehicle is in forward 

motion, nor shall they have a maximum intensity of more than sevenhundred-fifty (750) beam candlepower per lamp. 

§3.13.40. WARNING LAMPS

(a) AUTHORIZED VEHICLES. Any authorized emergency vehicle or

public utilities vehicle may be equipped with lamps which may 

be used for the purpose of warning the other operators of other 

vehicles of the presence of a vehicular traffic hazard requiring 

the exercise of unusual care in approaching, overtaking, or 

passing. When so equipped, these vehicles may display the 

warning in addition to any other warning signals required by 

this chapter. 

(b) PLACEMENT OF FRONT WARNING LAMPS. The lamps used to 

display a warning to the front shall be mounted at the same 

level and as widely spaced laterally as practicable, and shall 

display simultaneously flashing white or amber lights, or any 

shade of color between white and amber. 

(c) PLACEMENT OF REAR WARNING LAMPS. The lamps used to 

display a warning to the rear shall be mounted at the same level 

and as widely spaced laterally as practicable, and shall show 

simultaneously flashing amber or red lights, or any shade of 

color between amber or red. 
(d) WARNING LIGHT VISIBILITY. Warning lights shall be visible at 

night from distance of not less than fifteen- hundred feet (1500 

ft.) under normal atmospheric conditions. 

(e) WARNING LAMP INDICATOR. When a vehicle is equipped with 

warning lamps there shall be an illuminated indicator to give 

the operator a clear and unmistakable indication that the lamps 

are turned on. 

(f) VISIBILITY OF WARNING LAMP INDICATOR. The illuminated 

indicator shall consist of one (1) or more bright lights flashing 

at the same frequency as the warning lamps, and shall be 

plainly visible to drivers of all heights when seated in normal 

position in the driver's seat while driving in bright sunlight. 
§ 3.14. MULTIPLE-BEAM ROAD LIGHTING EQUIPMENT

§3.14.10. ARRANGEMENT OF LAMPS

Except as provided otherwise in this section, the headlamps, the 

auxiliary driving lamp, the auxiliary passing lamp or combination of 

such lamps on motor vehicles shall be arranged so that the driver may 

select between distributions of light projected to different elevations. 

These lamps may be arranged so that the selection can be made 

automatically, subject to the limitations stated in this section. This 

provision does not apply to motorcycles or motorized bicycles.

§3.14.20. MAXIMUM LIGHT DENSITY

There shall be an uppermost distribution of light or composite beam so 

aimed and of such intensity as to reveal persons or vehicles at a 

distance of at least three-hundred and fifty feet (350 ft.) for all 

conditions of loading.

§3.14.30. MINIMUM LIGHT DENSITY

There shall be a lowermost distribution of light or composite beam so 

aimed and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a 

distance of at least one-hundred feet (100 ft.) ahead. None of the highintensity portion of the beam shall be directed to strike the eyes of the 

oncoming driver on a straight level road and under any condition of 

loading.

§3.14.40. BEAM INDICATOR. 

Each new motor vehicle with multiple-beam road lighting equipment 

shall be equipped with a beam indicator. The beam indicator shall not 

be lighted unless the uppermost distribution of light from the head 

lamps is in use. The indicator shall be designed and properly placed so 

that it is readily visible without glare to the driver of the vehicle. This 

provision does not apply to motorcycles or motorized bicycles.

§3.14.50. LOW BEAMS REQUIRED

When lights are required, each motor vehicle equipped with multiplebeam head lamps shall use the lower or city-driving beam when 

operating on the highways of the Capitol Grounds. 

§3.14.60. EXCEPTION FOR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BEFORE 1950

Vehicles that are manufactured and sold before 1950 do not require 

additional auxiliary lamps. Vehicles manufactured before 1950 do 

require a single distribution of light. None of the high-intensity 

portion of the light shall:

(a) At a distance of twenty-five (25 ft.) ahead, project at a level 

higher than five inches (5 in.) below the level of the center of 

the lamp;

(b) At a distance of seventy-five (75 ft.) ahead, project higher than 

forty-two inches (42 in.) above the level on which the vehicle 

stands; and,

(c) Be of intensity sufficient to reveal persons and vehicles at a 

distance of at least one hundred feet (100 ft.) ahead on a 

straight-level road.
§ 3.15. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHTING EQUIPMENT

§3.15.10. CANDLEPOWER LIMIT

Two (2) or more lighted lamps shall be displayed at all times as 

required by these regulations provided:

(a) Each lamp has at least four thousand (4,000) beam candlepower 

per lamp; and,

(b) One lamp is displayed on each side of the front of the motor 

vehicle. 

This provision does not apply to motorcycles or motorized bicycles.

§3.15.20. MAXIMUM FOUR LAMPS PERMITTED

Whenever a motor vehicle equipped with head-lamps as required in 

this chapter and also equipped with any auxiliary lamp(s), spot lamp, 

or any other lamp on the front projecting a beam of an intensity greater 

than three-hundred (300) candlepower, no more than a total of four (4) 

of any such lamps on the front of a vehicle shall be lighted at any one 

time when upon a street or highway. 

§3.15.30. FRONT RED LIGHTS PROHIBITED

No person shall drive or move any vehicle or equipment upon any 

highway with any lamp or device thereon displaying a red light visible 

from the front of the vehicle. This subsection shall not apply to any 

vehicle on which a red light visible from the front is expressly 

authorized or required by these regulations. 

§3.15.40. FLASHING LIGHTS PROHIBITED

Flashing lights are prohibited on all vehicles except on:

(a) An authorized emergency vehicle;

(b) Snow-removal equipment; or,

(c) Any vehicle using the flashing light as a means for indicating a 

right or left turn or the presence of a vehicular traffic hazard. 
§ 3.16. BRAKES

§3.16.10. TRAILERS

Each motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer and pole trailer, and any 

combination of such vehicles operated upon a street or highway shall 

be equipped with brakes in compliance with the requirements of this 

subsection. 

§3.16.20. SERVICE BRAKES

Each vehicle and combination of vehicles, except special mobile 

equipment as defined in these regulations, shall be equipped with 

service brakes complying with the performance requirements of this 

section. The brakes should be adequate to control the movement of 

and to stop and hold the vehicle under all conditions of loadings and 

on any grade incident to its operation. 

§3.16.30. PARKING BRAKES

Each vehicle or combination of vehicles, except motorcycles and 

motorized bicycles, shall be equipped with parking brakes adequate to 

hold the vehicle on any grade on which it is operated under all 

conditions of loading on a surface free from snow, ice, or loose 

material. 

§3.16.40. GOOD WORKING ORDER

All brakes shall be maintained in good working order and shall be so 

adjusted to operate as equally as practicable with respect to the wheels 

on opposite sides of the vehicle. 
§ 3.17. HORNS AND WARNING DEVICES

§3.17.10. AUDIBLE HORN

Each motor vehicle operated upon a highway shall be equipped with a 

horn in good working order and capable of emitting sound audible 

under normal conditions from a distance of not less than two hundred 

feet (200 ft.). 

§3.17.20. UNREASONABLY LOUD HORNS

No horn or other warning device shall emit an unreasonably loud or 

harsh sound or a whistle. 

§3.17.30. AUDIBLE WARNING

The driver of a motor vehicle shall only give audible warning with his 

or her horn when reasonably necessary to ensure safe operation. 

§3.17.40. PERMISSIBLE HORNS

No vehicle shall be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a 

vehicle any siren, whistle, or bell, except as otherwise permitted in 

these regulations. This section does not apply to authorized 

emergency vehicles as set forth in §3.12. 

§3.17.50. THEFT ALARM SYSTEM

A vehicle may be equipped with a sound device designed to be used 

solely as a theft alarm system which shall be so arranged that it cannot 

be used or controlled by the driver or other person for any purpose 

other than as an alarm system. 
§ 3.18. WINDSHIELDS AND MIRRORS

§3.18.10. SIGNS AND POSTERS

No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other 

non-transparent material upon the front windshield, sidewings, or side 

or rear windows of the vehicle unless authorized under law. 

§3.18.20. MECHANICAL DEFROST

The windshield on a motor vehicle shall be equipped with a 

mechanically operated device for cleaning rain, snow, or other 

moisture from the windshield. This device shall be constructed to be 

controlled by the driver of the vehicle. 

§3.18.30. WINDSHIELD WIPERS

No motor vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1938 shall be operated 

on Capitol Grounds unless it is equipped with windshield wipers 

capable of wiping the right and left hand sides of the windshield. 

§3.18.40. GOOD WORKING ORDER

Each windshield wiper shall be maintained in good working order. 

§3.18.50. CRACKED WINDSHIELD

No motor vehicle shall be operated when the windshield is cracked, 

scarred, clouded, or otherwise defective so as to obstruct vision. 

§3.18.60. REFLECTIVE MIRRORS

Each motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror or mirrors so 

located as to reflect to the driver, under all conditions of loading, a 

view of the street or highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet 

(200 ft.) to the rear of such vehicle.

10

10 See 18 DCMR § 731.6 which requires certain vehicles be equipped with two adjustable rear-view mirrors. 
§ 3.19. TIRE EQUIPMENT

§3.19.10. UNSAFE TIRES

No person shall drive or move any motor vehicle equipped with any 

tire in such condition as to endanger or be likely to endanger any 

person or property. 

§3.19.20. TIRE THICKNESS

Each solid rubber tire on a vehicle shall have rubber on its entire 

traction surface at least one inch (1 in.) thick above the edge of the 

flange of the entire periphery. 

§3.19.30. BALD TIRES

No person shall operate or move on any street or highway any motor 

vehicle, trailer or semi-trailer having any metal tire in contact with the 

roadway. 

§3.19.40. PROTUBERANCE

No tire on a vehicle moved on a street or highway shall have on its 

periphery any block, stud, flange, cleat, or spike or any other 

protuberance of any material other than rubber which projects beyond 

the tread of the traction surface of the tire, except as provided in 

§3.20.50. 

§3.19.50. PERMISSIBLE USES

It shall be permissible to use the following:

(a) PROTUBERANCES. Farm machinery with tires having 

protuberances which will not injure the street or highway;

(b) TIRE CHAINS. Tire chains of reasonable proportions upon any 

vehicle when required for safety because of snow, ice, or other 

conditions tending to cause a vehicle to skid; or

(c) STUDDED TIRES. Pneumatic tires containing metal type studs, 

the tips of which protrude beyond the rubber tread surface of 

such tire not more than one-eighth of an inch (1/8 in.), and the 

cross-sectional diameter of which do not exceed one-fourth of 

an inch (1/4 in.), inclusive of the casing but not including any 

flange or flanges embedded in the rubber of the tire; provided, 

that the use of studded tires is permitted only from October 

15th through April 15th of each year. 
§ 3.20. BUMPERS AND FENDERS

§3.20.10. FRONT BUMPER REQUIRED

Each motor vehicle, except motorcycles and motorized bicycles, shall 

be equipped with bumpers in front, securely attached and extending 

beyond the extreme front of the vehicle. 

§3.20.20. REAR BUMPER REQUIRED

Each motor vehicle of the passenger car class, taxicabs and buses shall 

be equipped with a bumper on the rear of each vehicle securely 

attached to and extending beyond the extreme rear of the vehicle. 

§3.20.30. FENDER REQUIRED

No motor vehicle designed primarily to carry passengers shall be 

operated with the fenders removed. 

§3.20.40. SHARP EDGES

No motor vehicle shall be operated if any part of the vehicle has a 

sharp or ragged edge that may snag any person or object while 

operating on Capitol Grounds. 

§3.20.50. EXTENDED FENDERS PROHIBITED

No motor vehicle shall be operated on Capitol Grounds if the fender, 

running board, bumper bar, or any other body part extends beyond the 

original margin or width of the fender line. 
§ 3.21. WINDOW GLAZING MATERIALS

§3.21.10. SAFETY GLAZING MATERIALS

No motor vehicle manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1936 

shall be operated on Capitol Grounds unless it is equipped throughout 

with safety glazing materials of a type approved by the District of 

Columbia. 

§3.21.20. SAFETY GLAZING MATERIALS DEFINED

For the purposes of this section, the term "safety glazing materials" 

shall be construed to mean transparent glazing materials so formulated, 

treated, or combined with other materials as to reduce, in comparison 

with ordinary sheet glass or plate glass, the likelihood of injury to 

persons by objects from exterior sources or by these safety glazing 

materials when the glazing materials are cracked or broken. 

§3.21.30. RIGID-TYPE PLASTIC WINDOWS

The use of rigid-type clear plastic is restricted to side curtains or 

readily demountable windows, rear windows in the tops of convertible 

passenger cars, back lights, rear quarter lights and doors, in truck or 

truck-tractor cabs, in rear doors or taxicabs, in house or freight trailers, 

in the lights of lower part of folding doors when not over ten inches 

(10 in.) in the least dimension, in interior partitions and auxiliary wind 

deflectors, in standee windows in buses, and in openings in the roofs 

of tops. 

§3.21.40. FLEXIBLE-TYPE PLASTIC WINDOWS

The use of flexible-type, clear plastic is restricted to side curtains or 

readily demountable windows; rear windows in the tops of convertible 

passenger cars; and house or freight trailers. 
§ 3.22. TINTED WINDOWS 

(a) MOTOR VEHICLES. No motor vehicle, other than a mini-van, may be operated 

or parked upon the public streets or spaces of Capitol Grounds with:

1. A front windshield or front side windows that allow less than 70% 

light transmittance; or

2. A rear windshield or rear side windows that allow less than 50% 

light transmittance.

(b) MINI-VANS. No mini-van may be operated or parked upon the public streets 

or spaces of Capitol Grounds with:

1. A front windshield or front side windows that allow less than 55% 

light transmittance, or

2. A rear windshield or rear side windows that allow less than 35% 

light transmittance.

(c) PERMISSIBLE TINTING. A motor vehicle may be operated or parked upon the 

public streets of the District of Columbia with a front windshield that allows 

less than 70% light transmittance above the AS-1 line, or within 5 inches from 

the top of the windshield.

§ 3.23. MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT

§3.24.10. SPEEDOMETER REQUIRED

Each motor vehicle operating on Capitol Grounds shall be equipped 

with a device in good working order to register the rate of speed of the 

vehicle in motion. Vehicles manufactured prior to January 1934 shall 

not be required to comply with this provision so long as proof is 

offered that machine parts for the maintenance of such devices are not 

available or where the manufacturer has dissolved or discontinued 

business.

§3.24.20. TELEVISION EQUIPMENT

No television equipment shall be installed in or on any motor vehicle 

in a manner which will make the reception of the television visible to 

the vehicle operator while the vehicle is in motion. 

§3.24.30. RADAR DETECTORS AND JAMMERS

No person shall use or have in his possession in an automobile on 

Capitol Grounds any device used to detect or counteract police radar. 
§ 3.24. SEAT BELTS

§3.24.10. DEFINITIONS

The following definitions apply to the terms in this section only:

(a) MOTOR VEHICLE: an automotive transportation device with 

more than three (3) wheels and a seating capacity of eight (8)

or less passengers, not including the driver.

(b) PROPERLY RESTRAINED: strapped around the waist or torso of a 

passenger by a safety belt built into the motor vehicle.

§3.24.20. SEAT BELT REQUIRED

Except as provided in §3.25.20, the driver and all passengers in a 

motor vehicle shall wear a properly adjusted and fastened safety belt 

while the driver is in control of the vehicle. This provision does not 

apply to operators or passengers in the following circumstances:

(a) Riders in a motor vehicle manufactured before July 1, 1966;

(b) Riders who possess a written verification from a licensed 

physician that the rider is unable to wear a safety belt for 

medical reasons;

(c) Riders who are passengers in a vehicle if all seating positions 

with seat belts in the vehicle are occupied by other persons. 

The driver shall ensure that children sixteen (16) years of age 

and under have preference to seating positions with seat belts 

over persons more than 16 years of age; and,

(d) Operators of taxicabs who possess valid taxicab license while 

picking up or transporting passengers for hire between the 

hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

§3.24.30. LIABILITY

The driver of the vehicle shall be responsible for ensuring the 

passengers comply with this section. Operators of passenger vehicles 

for hire are not responsible for ensuring passenger compliance with 

this section.

§3.24.40. COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS

All seat belts or safety harnesses, including the installation and 

anchorages thereof, shall meet or exceed the standards and 

specifications published by the United States Department of 

Commerce and the Society of Automotive Engineers applicable to 

such equipment, installation, and anchorages current at the time such 

devices are installed and continuously maintained to conform to these 

standards. 

§3.24.50. VEHICLES FOR HIRE

All public vehicles for hire shall have operating seat belts for each 

passenger and display a sign which states the following: “District of 

Columbia law requires mandatory use of seat belts. A fifty dollar 

($50) fine applies for violations.” 
§ 3.25 CHILD RESTRAINT

§3.25.10. DEFINITIONS

The following definitions apply to the terms in this section only:

(a) CHILD RESTRAINT SEAT: any motor vehicle restraint system 

which has been designed to protect children and has been 

approved pursuant to all current and applicable federal safety 

standards.

11

(b) OPERATOR: a person who drives or is in actual physical control 

of a vehicle.

(c) PROPERLY RESTRAINED: 

When used in reference to the use of a:

1. SAFETY BELT means secured with the lap portion of a 

safety belt which is provided in a motor vehicle.

2. CHILD RESTRAINT SEAT means secured in a child restraint 

seat which itself has been fastened to the motor vehicle by 

a safety belt and in which all securing straps are being used.

(d) TRANSPORT: to have a child of less than sixteen (16) years of 

age as a passenger in a motor vehicle while the operator is 

seated in the driver position and the motor vehicle is either 

parked or in motion.

(e) MOTOR VEHICLE: any device with more than three (3) wheels 

and a seating capacity of eight (8) or fewer passengers, 

exclusive of the operator, which is propelled by an internalcombustion engine, electricity or steam and which is designed 

used or maintained for passenger or recreational purposes, or 

which is designed, used, or maintained for transporting freight, 

merchandise or other commercial loads or property. The term 

“motor vehicle” does not include any device used for livery, 

sightseeing, taxi, ambulance, funeral or farm purposes; or any 

device with more than three (3) wheels which is propelled by 

an internal-combustion engine, electricity or steam and which 

has a seating capacity of more than eight (8) passengers, 

exclusive of the operator.

§3.25.20. REQUIREMENTS

(a) CHILDREN UNDER THREE. The operator of a motor vehicle 

may not transport any child of less than three (3) years of age 

unless the child is properly restrained in a child restraint seat. 

(b) CHILDREN UNDER SIXTEEN. The operator of a motor vehicle 

shall not transport any child under sixteen (16) years of age 

unless the child is properly restrained in an approved child 

safety restraint system or restrained in a seat belt. Children 

under eight (8) years of age shall be properly seated in an 

installed infant, convertible (toddler) or booster child safety 

11 See D.C. Code §50-1074. 
seat, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A booster 

seat shall only be used with both a lap and shoulder belt.

(c) EXCEPTION. A parent or legal guardian may transport his or 

her own child without restraint if that person is transporting a 

number of his or her own children less than sixteen (16) years 

of age which exceeds the number of passenger positions 

equipped with safety belts in the motor vehicle. However, an 

unrestrained child may not be transported in the front seat of a 

motor vehicle.

§ 3.26. EXHAUST EMISSION SYSTEMS

§3.26.10. GOOD WORKING ORDER

When any motor vehicle was originally equipped with an emission 

control system, that system shall be maintained in good working order, 

and no person shall disconnect any part of that system, except 

temporarily in order to make repairs, replacements, or adjustments, 

and no person shall modify or alter that system in its operation. 

§3.26.20. POLLUTION CONTROL SYSTEM

No person shall operate, and no owner shall cause or permit to be 

operated, any motor vehicle originally equipped with a pollution 

control system while any part of that system is disconnected or while 

that system or its operation is modified or altered. 

§3.26.30. VISIBLE SMOKE AND FUMES

The engine, power, and exhaust mechanism of each motor vehicle 

shall be equipped, adjusted, and operated to prevent the escape from 

the vehicle of a trail of visible fumes or smoke for more than ten (10) 

consecutive seconds.

CHAPTER 4

INSPECTION STICKER REQUIREMENTS

§ 4.1. GENERAL 

§4.1.10. INSPECTION OF EQUIPMENT

Any police officer or other authorized agent of the Board may inspect 

and test the lights, brakes, steering assembly, tires, equipment horn, 

emission control equipment, exhaust emissions or other device at any 

time a vehicle is on Capitol Grounds. 

§ 4.2. INSPECTION STICKERS

§4.2.10. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA RESIDENTS

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate, park, or permit to be 

operated or parked any vehicle with current District of Columbia tags 

unless one of the following is displayed on the right side of the 

vehicle’s windshield:

(a) A current District of Columbia inspection sticker;

(b) A temporary District of Columbia inspection sticker; or

(c) When transferring ownership for registration purposes, a

temporary registration certificate issued by a registered dealer 

or repair shop when transferring ownership for registration 

purposes.

§4.2.20. NON-RESIDENTS

A vehicle owned by a non-resident and currently registered in another 

jurisdiction shall display the proper inspection sticker issued for the 

vehicle in accordance with the requirements of the issuing jurisdiction. 

§4.2.30. EXEMPTIONS

Vehicles bearing special bus identification, current dealer tags, 

transport tags, special use papers, vintage license tags or historic motor 

vehicle tags shall be exempt from the inspection sticker requirements

in this section.
§ 4.3. DETACHED AND CONDEMNED STICKERS

§4.3.10. DETACHMENT MUTILATION AND LOSS

If an inspection sticker becomes wholly or partly detached from the 

place where it was attached or becomes mutilated or lost, the registrant 

or the person desiring registration (or their agent) shall present that 

motor vehicle or trailer to the inspection station where it was originally 

inspected within seventy-two (72) hours after the detachment, 

mutilation, or loss is discovered. 

§4.3.20. OPERATING WITH CONDEMNED STICKER

No person shall park, operate or permit to be operated any motor 

vehicle bearing a “condemned” sticker issued by any authorized 

agency from any jurisdiction on Capitol Grounds.
CHAPTER 5

IDENTIFICATION TAGS

§ 5.1. PROPER DISPLAY OF TAGS

§5.1.10. VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Whenever a District of Columbia registered motor vehicle or trailer is 

being operated or left standing on Capitol Grounds, such vehicle shall 

display two (2) current identification tags, with one (1) on the front 

and the other on the rear; except as follows:

(a) Motor vehicles need only display a special use identification 

tag on the rear of the vehicle only; and

(b) Motor vehicles may display a souvenir presidential 

inauguration tag on the front of the vehicle not more than sixty 

(60) days before and not more than sixty (60) days after 

inauguration day so long as a current identification tag is 

displayed on the rear. 

§5.1.20. MISCELLANEOUS VEHICLES

Motorized bicycles, motorcycles, trailers and vehicles identified by a 

dealer’s tag or manufacturer’s tag shall display only one (1) valid 

identification tag on the rear of the vehicle. 

§5.1.30. NON-RESIDENT TAGS

A vehicle owned by a non-resident and currently registered in another 

jurisdiction shall display the proper identification tag or tags issued for 

the vehicle in accordance with the requirements of the issuing 

jurisdiction provided they are displayed in accordance with §6.1.40, 

§6.1.50, §6.1.60, and §6.1.80. 

§5.1.40. SWINGING TAGS

Every owner shall securely fasten identification tags in a horizontal 

position to the vehicle for which they are issued at all times in order to 

prevent the tags from swinging. Vehicle tags shall be secured in a 

place and a position so they are clearly visible and at a height of not 

less than twelve inches (12 in.) from the ground measuring from the 

bottom of the tags.

§5.1.50. ILLEGIBLE TAGS

Every owner shall maintain identification tags so they are clearly 

legible and free from foreign materials. Foreign materials include any: 

(a) Non-transparent materials placed on or over the tag(s);

(b) Expired or unauthorized decals or stickers; or,

(c) Markings or attachments of any kind, except as permitted by 

§5.1.60. 
§5.1.60. EMBLEMS 

No sign or emblem measuring more than twenty-four square inches 

(24) in area shall be attached to any license tag bracket. No sign or 

emblem of any size shall be placed in a way that obstructs any part of 

the identification tag from view. 

§5.1.70. VALIDATION STICKERS

Validation stickers issued by the District of Columbia that indicate the 

expiration of a motor vehicle’s registration period are required to be 

displayed as follows:

(a) For vehicles registered prior to April 22, 2002, and all 

motorized bicycles, motorcycles, and trailers, the stickers shall 

be affixed to the tags; the month sticker placed at the lower left 

corner and year sticker placed at the lower right corner; and

(b) For vehicles not listed in (a), the sticker shall be affixed to the 

inside of the vehicle’s windshield, on the driver’s side. 

§5.1.80. TAG COVERINGS 

No person shall operate a vehicle where the identifying numbers or 

letters on the identification tag are covered with glass, plastic, or any 

other type of material or substance. 

§ 5.2. LICENSING, REGISTRATION AND RECIPROCITY REQUIREMENTS

§5.2.10. GENERAL

Any motor vehicle owner or operator on Capitol Grounds must comply 

with all applicable District of Columbia motor vehicle licensing and 

registration laws, regulations and rules.

§ 5.3. FAILURE TO SURRENDER

§5.3.10. IDENTIFICATION TAGS

A registrant who loses or disposes of his or her ownership of a vehicle 

for which valid registration is outstanding shall remove, or cause to be 

removed, the owner’s identification tags from the vehicle. 

§5.3.20. SPECIAL LICENSE TAGS OR PARKING PERMIT

Whenever a special license tag or special parking permit issued by the 

District of Columbia is no longer needed by the applicant or the 

applicant is no longer eligible for those privileges set forth by the tag or 

permit, the applicant or the applicant’s representative shall, within ten 

(10) days, notify and surrender the tags or permit to the District of 

Columbia. 
§ 5.4. IMPROPER USE OF TAGS

§5.4.10. LENDING TAGS AND REGISTRATION

(a) No person shall lend any temporary registration certificate, 

registration certificate, identification tag, or temporary 

identification tag issued to him or her to any to another person 

if that person would not be entitled to their use.

(b) No person shall knowingly permit the use of any of these items 

by another person not entitled to them.

(c) No person shall display on a vehicle any temporary registration 

certificate, identification tag, or temporary identification tag 

not issued for that vehicle or not otherwise lawfully used on the 

vehicle.

§5.4.20. DEALER TAGS

Dealer identification tags issued to a registered dealer shall be used 

solely for the purpose of operating vehicles owned by the dealer, if 

directly in furtherance of the business of the dealer, and only by the 

following persons:

(a) The dealer, provided they carry proof of dealer registration at 

the time of operation;

(b) The dealer’s salesperson, provided they carry their 

salesperson’s license at the time of operation; or

(c) The dealer’s customer, provided:

1. The customer is accompanied by the dealer or the 

dealer’s salesperson and such person carries proof 

required by (a) or (b) at the time of operation; or

2. The vehicle displays a temporary registration 

certificate issued to that customer.12 

12 See 18 DCMR § 503.8 for temporary registration certificate requirements.

ARTICLE II: MOTOR VEHICLES

CHAPTER 6

CRIMINAL DRIVING OFFENSES

§6.1. PENALTIES

The provisions in this chapter are generated from the District of Columbia Traffic Act 

of 1925. Under 2 U.S.C. §1969, the Capitol Police Board is authorized to proscribe 

the penalties set forth in that Act. Therefore, the current penalties as set forth by the 

District of Columbia shall apply to the provisions in this chapter.13

§ 6.2. SPEEDING AND RECKLESS DRIVING

§6.2.10. RECKLESS DRIVING

A person shall be guilty of reckless driving if the person drives a 

vehicle upon a highway carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton 

disregard for the rights or safety of others, or without due caution and 

circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be 

likely to endanger a person or property.

§6.2.20. AGGRAVATED RECKLESS DRIVING

A person shall be guilty of aggravated reckless driving if the person

violates §6.2.10 and the person does one or more of the following:

(a) Operates the vehicle at a rate or speed at or greater than 30 

miles per hour over the stated speed limit;

(b) Causes bodily harm or permanent disability or disfigurement to 

another; or

(c) Causes property damage in excess of $1,000.

§ 6.3. FLEEING FROM A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER IN A MOTOR VEHICLE

§6.3.10. DEFINITIONS

The following definitions apply to the terms in this section only:

(a) LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. A law enforcement officer 

means any sworn member of the United States Capitol Police 

or any other police force operating in DC.

(b) SIGNAL. A signal is any communication made by hand, voice 

or the use of emergency lights, sirens or other visual or aural 

devices.

§6.3.20. FLEEING

No operator of a motor vehicle shall knowingly fail or refuse to bring 

the motor vehicle to an immediate stop, or flee or attempt to elude a 

law enforcement officer, following a law enforcement officer’s signal 

to bring the motor vehicle to a stop.

13 D.C. Code § 50-2201 et seq.
§ 6.4. LEAVING AFTER COLLIDING

Any person who operates or who is in physical control of a vehicle on Capitol 

Grounds who knows or has reason to believe that his or her vehicle has been in a 

collision shall immediately stop and:

(a) INJURY TO PERSONS. Where another person is injured, call or 

cause another to call 911 or call or cause another to call for an 

ambulance or other emergency assistance if necessary, remain 

on the scene until law enforcement arrives, and provide 

identifying information to law enforcement and to the injured 

person;

(b) DAMAGE TO PROPERTY OR DOMESTIC ANIMAL. Where real or 

personal property belonging to another is damaged or a 

domestic animal is injured, provide identifying information to 

the owner or operator of the property or the owner of the 

domestic animal or, where the owner or operator of the 

property or the owner of the domestic animal is not present, 

provide or cause another to provide identifying information and 

the location of the collision, to law enforcement or 911; or

(c) RISK POSED TO OTHERS. Where real or personal property or a 

wild or domestic animal, as a result of the collision, poses a 

risk to others, call or cause another to call 911 and provide 

identifying information, the location of the collision, and a 

description of the nature of the risk posed to others.
§ 6.5. OBJECT FALLING OR FLYING FROM VEHICLE

Any person who operates or who is in physical control of a vehicle within the District 

who knows or has reason to believe that an object likely to cause damage has 

detached from, fallen, or flown from his or her vehicle shall immediately stop and:

(a) PERSONAL INJURY. Where another person is injured, call or 

cause another to call 911 or call or cause another to call for an 

ambulance or other emergency assistance if necessary, remain 

on the scene until law enforcement arrives, and provide 

identifying information to law enforcement and to the injured 

person;

(b) DAMAGE TO PROPERTY OR DOMESTIC ANIMAL. Where real or 

personal property belonging to another is damaged or a 

domestic animal is injured, provide identifying information to 

the owner or operator of the property or the owner of the 

domestic animal or, where the owner or operator of the 

property or the owner of the domestic animal is not present, 

provide or cause another to provide identifying information and 

the location of the event, to law enforcement or 911; or

(c) RISK POSED TO OTHERS. Where real or personal property or a 

wild or domestic animal, as a result of the event, poses a risk to 

others, call or cause another to call 911 and provide identifying 

information, the location of the collision, and a description of 

the nature of the risk posed to others.

§6.6. NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE

§6.6.10. NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE

Any person who, by the operation of any vehicle in a careless, 

reckless, or negligent manner, but not wilfully or wantonly, shall cause 

the death of another, including a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk, or 

unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, shall be guilty of a felony and 

shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than the amount set 

by law.

§6.6.20. NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE INCLUDED IN MANSLAUGHTER

The crime of negligent homicide defined in §6.6.10 shall be deemed to 

be included within every crime of manslaughter charged to have been 

committed in the operation of any vehicle, and in any case where a 

defendant is charged with manslaughter committed in the operation of 

any vehicle, if the jury shall find the defendant not guilty of the crime 

of manslaughter such jury may, in its discretion, render a verdict of 

guilty of negligent homicide.

§6.6.30. IMMODERATE SPEED NOT DEPENDENT ON LEGAL RATE OF SPEED

In any prosecution under §6.6.10 or §6.6.20, whether the defendant 

was driving at an immoderate rate of speed shall not depend upon the 

rate of speed fixed by law for operating such vehicle.
§6.7. IMPAIRED OPERATING AND DRIVING

§6.7.10. DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR A DRUG

No person shall operate or be in physical control of any vehicle in the 

District:

(a) While the person is intoxicated; or

(b) While the person is under the influence of alcohol or any drug 

or any combination thereof.

§6.7.20. DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR A DRUG:

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

No person shall operate or be in physical control of any commercial 

vehicle in the District:

(a) While the person is intoxicated; or

(b) While the person is under the influence of alcohol or any drug 

or any combination thereof.

§6.7.30. OPERATING A VEHICLE WHILE IMPAIRED

No person shall operate or be in physical control of any vehicle in the 

District while the person's ability to operate or be in physical control 

of a vehicle is impaired by the consumption of alcohol or any drug or 

any combination thereof.

§6.7.40. OPERATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR A DRUG: HORSEDRAWN VEHICLE

No person shall operate or be in the physical control of any horsedrawn vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any drug or any 

combination thereof.

§6.7.50. ADDITIONAL PENALTIES

(a) COMMERCIAL VEHICLES. Any person violating §6.7.20 shall be 

subject to an additional 5 day mandatory minimum-term of 

incarceration.

(b) DRIVING WITH A MINOR. A person convicted of any offense 

under §6.7, who at the time of operation or physical control of 

the vehicle had a minor, other than him or herself in the 

vehicle, shall, in addition to any applicable penalty set forth by 

law, be:

1. Fine. Fined a minimum of $500 and not more than $1,000 

per minor; and

2. Incarceration. Be incarcerated for a mandatory minimum 

term of incarceration of:

i. If Restrained. 5 days per minor if the minor or 

minors are restrained in or by an age-appropriate 

child passenger-safety restraint; or

ii. If Not Restrained. 10 days per minor if the minor or 

minors are not restrained in, or by, an ageappropriate child passenger-safety restraint.

CHAPTER 7

MOVING INFRACTIONS
§7.1. GENERAL

§7.1.10. APPLICABILITY

The provisions of this chapter shall apply consistent with the 

provisions of these regulations. The provisions of this chapter shall 

apply at all times unless otherwise indicated by an official traffic 

control device or police officer. 

§7.1.20. OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Every operator of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding 

with any pedestrians or any person propelling a human powered 

vehicle and shall give an audible signal when necessary, and shall 

exercise proper precaution upon observing any child or any obviously 

confused, incapacitated, or intoxicated person.

(a) DUE CARE. Exercise due care to avoid colliding with any 

pedestrian upon any roadway;

(b) WARNING SOUND. Give warning by sounding the horn when 

necessary; and

(c) CHILDREN AND INCAPACITATED PERSONS. Exercise proper 

precaution upon observing any child or any confused or 

incapacitated person upon the roadway. 

§ 7.2. SPEED RESTRICTIONS

§7.2.10. MAXIMUM LAWFUL SPEED ON STREETS AND HIGHWAYS

The maximum lawful speed limit on all streets and highways shall be 

twenty-five (25) miles per hour. No person shall drive in excess of the 

maximum posted speed limit.

§7.2.20. MAXIMUM LAWFUL SPEED IN DRIVEWAYS, GARAGES AND UNDER 

ARCHWAYS

The maximum lawful speed on all roadways leading to, going through 

or leaving from, any archway, driveway or parking garage is five (5) 

miles per hour.

§7.2.30. REASONABLE SPEED FOR CONDITIONS

No person shall drive a vehicle on a street or highway at a speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. 
§7.2.40. DUTY OF DUE CARE

Every operator shall control their speed at all times as is necessary to 

avoid colliding with any person, vehicle, or other conveyance on or 

entering the street or highway. 

§7.2.50. EXCESSIVE SPEEDING 

Any individual convicted for driving a vehicle on a street or highway 

at a speed greater than thirty (30) miles per hour over the legal speed 

limit shall be fined not more than three hundred dollars ($300) or be 

imprisoned for not more than ninety (90) days. 

§ 7.3. MINIMUM SPEED RESTRICTIONS

§7.3.10. REDUCED SPEED REQUIRED

The driver of every vehicle shall drive at an appropriate reduced speed 

when approaching and crossing an intersection or railway grade 

crossing; when approaching and going around a curve; when 

approaching a hill crest; when traveling upon any narrow or winding 

roadway; and when special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians or 

other traffic, or by reason of weather or highway conditions. 

§7.3.20. IMPEDING TRAFFIC 

No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a speed as to impede or 

block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when 

reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or to be in compliance 

with the law. 
§ 7.4. PROPER USE OF THE ROADWAYS

§7.4.10. DRIVE ON RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD

Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle shall be driven upon 

the right half of the roadway, except:

(a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the 

same direction under this section governing such movement;

(b) When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the 

left of the center of the roadway; any person so doing shall 

yield the right-of-way to all vehicles traveling in the proper 

direction upon the unobstructed portion of the roadway within 

such distance as to constitute an immediate hazard;

(c) Upon a roadway designated and signed for one-way traffic; or

(d) Upon a roadway divided into three (3) marked lanes for traffic. 

§7.4.20. SLOW-MOVING VEHICLES STAY TO THE RIGHT

Upon all roadways, any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal 

speed of traffic under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the 

right-hand plane then available for traffic, or as close as practicable to 

the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when overtaking 

and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when 

preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road, 

driveway or alley. 

§7.4.30. PASSING VEHICLES PROCEEDING IN OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each 

other to the right, and upon roadways having width for not more than 

one lane of traffic in each direction, each driver shall give to the other 

at least one-half of the main-traveled portion of the roadway as nearly 

as possible. 

§7.4.40. FOLLOWING TOO CLOSE

The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely 

than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of the 

vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the roadway. 
§7.4.50. SUFFICIENT SPACE BETWEEN VEHICLES

The driver of any motor vehicle drawing another vehicle when 

traveling upon a roadway which is following another motor vehicle 

drawing another vehicle shall, whenever conditions permit, leave 

sufficient space so that an overtaking vehicle may enter and occupy 

the space in front of the drawing vehicle without danger, except that 

this shall not prevent a truck or motor vehicle drawing another vehicle 

from overtaking and passing any like vehicle or other vehicle. 

§7.4.60. FAILURE TO CLEAR AN INTERSECTION

No driver shall enter an intersection or marked crosswalk, unless the 

movement can be made such that the vehicle can completely clear the 

intersection without obstructing the passage of other vehicles or 

pedestrians, notwithstanding any official traffic control device 

indication to proceed. A vehicle shall not enter an intersection to turn 

right or left unless there is sufficient space on the roadway being 

entered to accommodate the vehicle. 
§ 7.5. DESIGNATED ROADWAYS

§7.5.10. ONE-WAY TRAFFIC

No person shall drive a vehicle in a direction other than the one 

indicated upon a roadway designated for one-way traffic.

§7.5.20. MULTIPLE-LANE ROADWAYS

Whenever any roadway has been divided into two (2) or more clearly 

marked lanes for traffic, the following rules shall apply:

(a) STAY IN THE LANE. A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as 

practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved 

from that lane until the driver has first ascertained that such 

movement can be made with safety.

(b) THREE-LANE ROADWAYS. Upon a roadway which is divided 

into three (3) lanes and which provides for two-way movement 

of traffic, a vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane except 

when:

1. Overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in 

the same direction when the center lane is clear of 

traffic within a safe distance;

2. In preparation for making or completing a turn; or,

3. Where the center lane is at the time allocated 

exclusively to traffic moving in the same direction 

than the vehicle is proceeding and the allocation is 

designated by official traffic control devices.

§7.5.30. DIVIDED ROADWAYS

Every vehicle shall be driven upon the right-hand roadway whenever 

any highway is divided by a physical barrier, intervening space or as 

otherwise indicated to impede vehicular traffic. 

§7.5.40. DRIVING THROUGH MEDIAN PROHIBITED

No vehicle shall be driven over, across or within any dividing space, 

barrier or section, except through an opening in the physical barrier or 

dividing section or space or at a crossover or intersection or an 

unraised, paved dividing section with pavement markings only, unless 

otherwise directed by official traffic control devices. 
§ 7.6. OVERTAKING AND PASSING

§7.6.10. APPLICATION

The rules set forth in this section shall govern the overtaking and 

passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction. 

§7.6.20. OVERTAKING VEHICLE TO PASS ON LEFT

The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the 

same direction shall pass to the left of the vehicle at a safe distance and 

shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear 

of the overtaken vehicle. 

§7.6.30. DRIVING ON LEFT SIDE OF ROADWAY

No vehicle shall at any time be driven to the left side of the roadway 

under the following conditions:

(a) When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the 

highway where the driver’s view is obstructed within such 

distance as to create a hazard if another vehicle approaches 

from the opposite direction;

(b) When approaching within one hundred feet (100 ft.) of or 

while traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing;

(c) On the roadway of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel; and

(d) On the approach roadway within one hundred feet (100 ft.) of 

any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel. 

The above-listed restrictions shall not apply to driving on a one-way 

roadway.

§7.6.40. OVERTAKEN VEHICLE TO GIVE WAY

Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the 

driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of 

the overtaking vehicle on audible signal and shall not increase the 

speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking 

vehicle. 

§7.6.50. PASSING ON THE RIGHT

The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass upon the right of 

another vehicle only under the following conditions:

(a) When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left 

turn;

(b) On a street or highway with unobstructed pavement not 

occupied by parked vehicles and of sufficient width for two (2) 

or more lines of moving vehicles in each direction; and

(c) On a one-way street or upon any roadway upon which traffic is 

restricted to one direction of movement; where the roadway is 

free from obstructions and of sufficient width for two (2) or 

more lines of moving vehicles. 
§7.6.60. UNSAFE PASSING ON THE RIGHT

The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle on the 

right only under permitting such movement in safety. In no event shall 

the passing movement be made by driving off the pavement or maintraveled portion of the roadway. 

§7.6.70. UNSAFE PASSING ON THE LEFT

No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway 

while overtaking and passing another vehicle unless the left side is 

clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance 

ahead to permit the overtaking and passing to be completed without 

interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the 

opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken. 

§7.6.80. RETURN AFTER OVERTAKING

In every event, an overtaking vehicle must return to the right hand side 

of the roadway before coming within one hundred feet (100 ft.) of any 

vehicle approaching from the opposite direction. 

§7.6.90. OVERTAKING BICYCLES

(a) BICYCLE LANES. On any street where official traffic control 

devices have been erected giving notice that bicycles are 

entitled to the use of the full right-hand lane then available for 

moving traffic, the driver of a motor vehicle shall not drive 

within that right hand lane while overtaking or passing a 

bicycle being driven in that lane, and after overtaking or 

passing, shall not drive into that right-hand lane until safely 

clear of the overtaken bicycle. 

(b) 3 FOOT DISTANCE. A person driving a motor vehicle shall 

exercise due care by leaving a safe distance, but in no case less 

than three (3) feet, when overtaking and passing a bicycle. 
§ 7.7. TURNING AT INTERSECTIONS

§7.7.10. APPLICATION

The driver of a vehicle intending to turn at an intersection shall abide 

by the provisions in this section unless otherwise indicated by a button, 

sign or marker, in which case the driver shall turn as indicated. 

§7.7.20. RIGHT TURNS

The driver shall turn as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or 

edge of the roadway when approaching or making a right turn.

§7.7.30. LEFT TURN FROM A TWO-WAY STREET ONTO A TWO-WAY STREET

When making a left-turn from a two-way street into another two-way 

street, the driver shall approach the turn from the right half of the 

roadway nearest to the center line of that roadway. After entering the 

intersection, the driver shall turn into the lane nearest to the right 

center line of the roadway being entered. 

§7.7.40. LEFT TURN FROM A TWO-WAY STREET ONTO A ONE-WAY STREET

When making a left turn from a two-way street into a one-way street, 

the driver shall approach from the right half of the roadway nearest the 

center line of the roadway. The driver shall stay to the right of the 

center line after entering the intersection.

§7.7.50. LEFT TURN FROM A ONE-WAY STREET ONTO A ONE-WAY STREET 

When making a left turn from a one-way street into a two-way street, 

the driver shall approach from the portion of the roadway as close as 

practicable to the left-hand curb or edge of the roadway. After 

entering the intersection, the driver shall turn into the lane nearest to 

the right center line of the roadway being entered.

§7.7.60. LEFT TURN FROM A ONE-WAY STREET ONTO A ONE-WAY STREET

Where both streets and roadways are one-way, both the approach for a 

left turn and a left turn shall be made as close as practicable to the lefthand curb or edge of the roadway. 

§7.7.70. CUT-OFF ROADWAYS

At intersections where “cut-off” roadways have been provided to 

facilitate a right turn, all vehicles emerging from such “cut-off” 

roadways shall turn to the right. 

§7.7.80. UNBALANCED TRAFFIC LANES

The word “center line” shall mean the line between the two (2) 

directions of flow on streets during the hours designated for 

unbalanced traffic lanes. 

§7.7.90. IMPROPER TURNING

No person shall turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in 

proper position upon the roadway, as required in this section. 
§ 7.8. TURNING REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS

§7.8.10. TURNING AROUND BEFORE A CURVE OR CREST OF GRADE 

No vehicle shall be turned so as to proceed in the opposite direction 

upon any curve, or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade, 

where such vehicle cannot be seen by the driver of any other vehicle 

approaching from either direction within five hundred feet (500 ft.). 

§7.8.20. SAFE TURN REQUIRED

No person shall turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or 

otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon 

a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with 

reasonable safety. 

§7.8.30. PROPER TURN SIGNAL

No person shall turn any vehicle to enter a private road or driveway, or 

otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon 

a roadway without giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided 

by these regulations if any other traffic may be affected by the 

movement. 

§7.8.40. INTENTION TO TURN

A signal of intention to turn right or left when required shall be given 

continuously during not less than the last one hundred feet (100 ft.) 

traveled by the vehicle before turning. 

§7.8.50. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC MARKERS

When authorized markers, buttons, or other indications are placed 

within or between intersections indicating the course to be traveled by 

vehicles, no driver of a vehicle shall disobey the directions of the 

indications. 

§7.8.60. OBEDIENCE TO SIGNS

Whenever authorized signs are erected indicating that “NO RIGHT 

TURN” or “NO LEFT TURN” or “NO U-TURN” is permitted, no driver of 

a vehicle shall disobey the directions of any such sign. 

§7.8.70. U-TURN AT AN INTERSECTION

No vehicle shall make a U-turn so as to proceed in the opposite 

direction at any intersection controlled by traffic lights or police 

officer, or on a crosswalk adjacent to such an intersection. 

§7.8.80. TURNING IN OPPOSITE DIRECTION

The driver of any vehicle shall not turn a vehicle so as to proceed in 

the opposite direction unless such movement can be made in safety 

and without interfering with other traffic. 
§ 7.9. PROPER SIGNALS FOR TURNING AND STOPPING

§7.9.10. PROPER SIGNALS 

Required stop or turn signals shall be given by using the hand and arm, 

by a signal lamp or lamps, or by means of a mechanical signal device, 

except as otherwise provided in this section.

§7.9.20. SIGNAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

Any motor vehicle in use on a highway shall be equipped with signal 

lamp(s) or mechanical signal device when required by Chapter 4.14 If 

any motor vehicle is required to be equipped with a signal lamp(s) or 

mechanical signal devices, the required signal shall be given by means 

of lamps or devices. 

§7.9.30. SIGNAL FROM THE LEFT OF THE VEHICLE

All signals required by this chapter to be given by hand-and-arm shall 

be given from the left side of the vehicle in the following manner and 

the signals shall indicate as follows:

(a) LEFT TURN: Hand and arm extended horizontally;

(b) RIGHT TURN: Hand and arm extended upward; and,

(c) STOP OR DECREASE SPEED: Hand and arm extended 

downward. 

§ 7.10. STARTING, STOPPING AND BACKING

§7.10.10. SAFE STARTING

No person shall start a vehicle which is stopped, standing, or parked 

unless and until the movement can be made with reasonable safety. 

§7.10.20. SUDDEN STOPS OR DECREASE OF SPEED

A person shall not stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle 

without first giving an appropriate signal to the driver immediately to 

the rear. The signal shall be given as soon as there is an opportunity 

and in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. 

§7.10.30. BACKING UP SAFELY

The driver of a vehicle shall not back the vehicle unless the backing 

movement can be made with reasonable safety and without interfering 

with other traffic. 

14 Chapter 3 (“Equipment”).
§ 7.11. RIGHT-OF-WAY

§7.11.10. DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY TO YIELD

(a) EMERGING FROM A PRIVATE ROAD OR DRIVEWAY. The driver 

of a vehicle emerging from an alley, building, private road or 

driveway shall stop the vehicle immediately prior to driving 

onto the sidewalk or sidewalk area. If there is no sidewalk or 

sidewalk area, the driver shall stop at the point nearest to the 

street where the driver has a view of approaching traffic. 

(b) YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS ON SIDEWALK. The driver of a vehicle 

crossing a sidewalk or sidewalk area shall yield the right-ofway to any pedestrian and all other traffic using the sidewalk or 

sidewalk area. 

(c) ENTERING OR CROSSING A ROADWAY. The driver of a vehicle 

about to enter or cross a roadway from an alley or from any 

place other than another roadway shall yield the right-of-way 

to all vehicles approaching on the roadway to be entered or 

crossed. 

§7.11.20. INTERSECTIONS

(a) VEHICLE TURNING LEFT. The driver of a vehicle intending to 

leave a public roadway by turning left between intersections 

shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from 

the opposite direction which is so close as to constitute an 

immediate hazard. 

(b) SAME-TIME APPROACH. When two (2) vehicles approach or 

enter an intersection from different highways at approximately 

the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield 

the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. 

(c) APPROACHING FROM OPPOSITE DIRECTION. The driver of a 

vehicle intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way 

to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which 

is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard. 

§7.11.30. STOP AND YIELD SIGNS

(a) APPROACHING A STOP SIGN. Every driver of a vehicle 

approaching a “STOP” sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop 

line before entering the intersecting roadway; if there is no stop 

line, the driver shall stop before entering the nearest crosswalk; 

if there is no crosswalk, the driver shall stop at the point 

nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of 

approaching traffic on that roadway.

(b) WHEN STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN. After having stopped for a 

stop sign, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any traffic 

in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so 

closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time 

when the driver is moving across or within the intersection or 

junction of roadways. The driver shall yield the right-of-way 

to pedestrians. 
(c) APPROACHING A YIELD SIGN. 

1. The driver of a vehicle approaching a “YIELD” sign 

shall slow down to a speed reasonable for the 

existing conditions. 

2. When required for safety, the driver shall stop at a 

clearly marked stop line; if there is no stop line, the 

driver shall stop before entering the nearest 

crosswalk; if there is no crosswalk, the driver shall 

stop at the point nearest the intersecting roadway 

where the driver has a view of approaching traffic 

on that roadway. 

3. After slowing or stopping for a yield sign, the driver 

of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any 

traffic in the intersection or approaching on another 

roadway so closely as to constitute an immediate 

hazard during the time the driver is moving across 

or within the intersection or junction of roadways.

4. The driver shall yield the right-of-way to 

pedestrians; if the driver is involved in a collision 

with a vehicle in the intersection or with a 

pedestrian, after driving past a “YIELD” sign 

without stopping, the collision shall be considered 

prima facie evidence of failure to yield the right-ofway. 
§7.11.40. OTHER AREAS

(a) ENTERING A TRAFFIC CIRCLE. The driver of a vehicle 

approaching a traffic circle shall yield the right-of-way to 

traffic already within the circle unless official traffic control 

devices indicate otherwise. 

(b) ENTERING A FREEWAY. The driver of a vehicle entering a 

freeway by way of an access ramp shall yield the right-of-way 

to traffic on the freeway. 

§7.11.50. PEDESTRIANS

(a) MARKED OR UNMARKED CROSSWALKS. When official trafficcontrol signals are not in place or not in operation, the driver of 

a vehicle shall stop and give the right-of-way to a pedestrian 

crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or 

unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. 

(b) CROSSING ON “WALK” SIGNAL. A driver of any vehicle shall 

stop and give the right-of-way to a pedestrian who has begun 

crossing on the "WALK" signal to continue to the opposite 

sidewalk or safety island, whichever is nearest. 

§7.11.60. SCHOOL BUSES

(a) FLASHING WARNING LIGHT. The driver of a vehicle 

approaching a school bus with the warning light flashing shall 

prepare to stop the vehicle and bring the vehicle to a complete 

stop not less than fifteen (15 ft.) from the school bus. This 

applies to vehicles approaching from any direction with the 

exception of vehicles approaching from the opposite direction 

on a street with a median strip divider. 

(b) WAIT TO PROCEED. A driver who has stopped for a school bus, 

in accordance with this section, shall not proceed until the 

visual signals are no longer actuated. 
§ 7.12. EMERGENCY VEHICLES AND FIRE TRUCKS

§7.12.10. MOVE-OVER LAW

Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle 

making use of audible and visual signals that meets the requirements 

of these regulations or of a police officer properly and lawfully making 

use of an audible signal only; the driver of every vehicle shall yield the 

right-of-way and immediately drive to a position parallel to and as 

close as possible to the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway, clear 

of any intersection. That driver shall stop and remain in that position 

until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.

§7.12.20. DUTY OF CARE 

This section shall not operate to relieve the driver of an authorized 

emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the 

safety of all persons using the highway. 

§7.12.30. FOLLOWING FIRE TRUCK

(a) No driver of any vehicle shall follow any fire apparatus 

traveling in response to a fire alarm closer than five hundred 

(500) feet. 

(b) No driver shall drive into or park such vehicle within the block 

where fire apparatus has stopped in answer to a fire alarm. 

§7.12.40. DRIVING OVER FIRE HOSE

No vehicle shall be driven over any unprotected hose of a fire 

department when laid down on any street, private driveway, or 

streetcar track without the consent of a police or fire department 

official. 

§ 7.13. COASTING

§7.13.10. MOTOR VEHICLES

No driver of any motor vehicle shall coast with the gears of the vehicle 

in neutral when traveling upon a down grade.
§ 7.14. OBSTRUCTION AND PASSENGER INTERFERENCE

§7.14.10. LOADED VEHICLE

No person shall drive a vehicle when it is so loaded that:

(a) The front or side view of the driver is obstructed; or, 

(b) There is interference with the driver’s control over the driving 

mechanism of the vehicle.

§7.14.20. EXCESS PASSENGER OBSTRUCTION

No person shall drive a vehicle with more than three (3) persons in the 

front seat if:

(a) The front or side view of the driver is obstructed; or, 

(b) There is interference with the driver’s control over the driving 

mechanism of the vehicle. 

§7.14.30. PASSENGER INTERFERENCE

No passenger in a vehicle or streetcar shall ride in a position that:

(a) Obstructs the driver or operator’s view ahead or to the sides; 

or, 

(b) Interferes with the driver or operator’s control over the driving 

mechanism of the vehicle or streetcar. 

§7.14.40. FULL TIME AND ATTENTION

An operator shall give full time and attention to the operation of the 

vehicle while that vehicle is being operated. 

§7.14.50. RUNNING BOARDS

No person shall ride on the running board of a motor vehicle while that 

vehicle is in motion and no driver of a motor vehicle shall permit such 

standing.

§7.14.60. DESIGNATED PASSENGER AREAS 

No person shall ride on any portion of any vehicle which is not 

designed or intended for the use of passengers and no driver of a 

vehicle shall permit such riding. This provision shall not apply to an 

employee engaged in the necessary discharge of his or her duty or to 

persons riding within truck bodies in space intended for materials. 

§7.14.70. SUSPENDED OBJECTS

No person shall operate any vehicle on Capitol Grounds that has an 

object:

(a) Attached to or suspended from the rear view mirror or rear 

view mirror bracket;

(b) Attached to or suspended from the windshield, rear window or 

any front side window; or 

(c) Attached to or suspended from the frame of the windshield, 

rear window or any front side window. 

This section shall not be construed to prohibit the hanging of clothing 

or other objects from a hanger attached to either of the rear-side 

windows of a vehicle, nor shall it be construed to prohibit the display 

of a sticker authorized or required to be displayed by law.
§ 7.15. OPEN DOORS AND BOARDING 

§7.15.10. BOARDING IN MOTION

No person shall board or alight from a vehicle while the vehicle is in 

motion nor shall any driver permit such action. 

§7.15.20. SWINGING DOORS

No motor vehicle shall be operated with the front door(s), side door(s), 

or rear door(s) tied open or swinging. 

§7.15.30. OPEN DOORS

(a) No person shall open a vehicle door if it interferes with the 

safety of moving traffic, pedestrians or with the safety of any 

person in the vehicle. 

(b) No person shall leave a vehicle door open longer than is 

necessary to receive or discharge the passenger(s) entering or 

leaving the vehicle.

§ 7.16. RIDING ON MOTORCYCLES

§7.16.10. GENERAL

(a) No person shall ride on a seat other than the permanent seat 

attached to the motorcycle. 

(b) No person other than the operator shall ride on a motorcycle 

that is only designed to carry one (1) nor shall the operator 

allow any additional person to ride on a motorcycle only 

designed to carry one (1) person.

§7.16.20. PASSENGERS

If a motorcycle is equipped to carry more than one (1) person, thepassenger may only ride upon:

(a) The permanent seat attached to the motorcycle as long as that 

seat is designed for two (2) persons;

(b) A seat that is firmly attached to the rear or side of the 

motorcycle and provided with foot rests and handgrips; or, 

(c) In a side car attached to the motorcycle. 

§7.16.30. PROTECTIVE HELMET REQUIRED

No person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless wearing a 

protective helmet that meets current safety standards, in a manner for 

which the helmet was designed. 

§7.16.40. PROTECTIVE GEAR

(a) No person shall operate a motorcycle unless they are wearing 

spectacles with safety glass lenses or a pair of goggles or a face 

shield. All protective gear must meet current safety standards 

and worn or used in the manner for which they were designed. 

(b) If the operator is not wearing any protective eye wear, the 

motorcycle must be equipped with a wind screen or shield in 

accordance with Chapter 3.

15

15 Chapter 3 (“Equipment”).
§ 7.17. RESTRICTED STREETS

§7.17.10. CLOSED STREETS

No person shall operate a vehicle on a street that has been closed to 

vehicular traffic except as specifically permitted by an official traffic 

control device.

§7.17.20. DRIVING OVER BARRIERS

No person shall drive any vehicle across or over any public street at 

which there is any official barrier, sign, or authorized person indicating 

that the street is closed, except as otherwise provided. 

§7.17.30. BUS RESTRICTIONS

Whenever authorized signs are erected to restrict buses from any street 

or portion of a street, no person shall operate a bus upon such street or 

portion of the street at anytime unless otherwise excepted as stated on 

an official authorized sign.

§ 7.18. TRUCKS 

§7.18.10. TRUCK INTERDICTION

Whenever authorized signs are erected indicating a truck restriction, 

no person shall operate the type of truck prohibited on the street,

unless specifically authorized by the Board.

16

16 See Appendix E for “United States Capitol Police Board Regulations for the Truck Interdiction Program Providing 

for the Extended Capitol Police Jurisdiction Zone” (Nov. 12, 2003). 
§ 7.19. SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTES

§7.19.10. EFFECTIVE TIRES

No person in charge of a motor vehicle operated on any street 

designated as a Snow Emergency Route shall allow the vehicle to 

become stalled on that street due to the fact that the driving wheels of 

the vehicle are not equipped with tire chains or effective snow tires. 

This provision is in effect whenever there is snow, sleet or freezing 

rain falling or covering the street.

§7.19.20. PARKING PROHIBITION

Whenever there is a parking prohibition in effect on street designated 

as a Snow Emergency Route the following provisions shall apply:

(a) NO FUEL. No person in charge of a motor vehicle operated on 

any street designated as a Snow Emergency Route shall allow 

the vehicle to become stalled on that street due to the fact that 

the motor fuel supply of the vehicle is exhausted.

(b) STALLED VEHICLE. The person in charge of a stalled motor 

vehicle shall take action without delay to have the vehicle 

towed or pushed off the roadway. This provision does not 

permit the violation of any other law or regulation and applies 

to any vehicle stalled for any reason. 

(c) ABANDONED VEHICLE. No person shall abandon or leave a 

motor vehicle in the roadway of a Snow Emergency Route at 

any time when the parking of motor vehicles on that route has 

been prohibited. A standing vehicle is not considered 

abandoned if (1) the operator leaves the vehicle for the purpose 

of securing assistance for a time necessary to secure such 

assistance and returns to and remains with the stalled vehicle 

until its removal and (2) the operator has placed on the 

windshield prior to leaving the vehicle stating the location 

where the person is seeking assistance and the approximate 

time of departure. 
§ 7.20. MISCELLANEOUS MOVING INFRACTIONS

§7.20.10. UNNECESSARY NOISE

No vehicle shall be operated or used in such a manner as to cause 

unnecessary or disturbing noise. 

§7.20.20. PARALLEL PARKING

When the driver of a vehicle desires to park at the curb when there is 

room enough for only one (1) car between two (2) other cars, the 

driver shall drive forward until parallel to the car ahead of the space 

and back cautiously into the parking space. 

§7.20.30. DRIVING OVER SIDEWALKS 

The driver of a vehicle shall not drive within or across any permanent 

sidewalk area except at a permanent or temporary driveway or as 

provided by these regulations. 

§7.20.40. FIXED OBJECTS

No vehicle shall be operated so that the vehicle or any load on it 

strikes any part of a building, landscape or architectural feature on 

Capitol Grounds. This provision shall not apply to authorized vehicles 

working within the scope of official duty. 

§7.20.50. OVERTAKING A STOPPED VEHICLE

Whenever any vehicle is stopped at a marked crosswalk or at an 

unmarked crosswalk at any intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross 

the roadway, the driver of any vehicle approaching from the rear shall 

not overtake and pass the stopped vehicle. 

§7.20.60. LITTERING FROM VEHICLE

No person shall dispose or cause or allow the disposal of litter from a 

vehicle upon any public or private property. Litter shall include all 

rubbish, waste matter, refuse, garbage, trash, debris, dead animals, or 

other discarded materials of every kind and description. 
§ 7.21. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN MOTOR VEHICLES

§7.21.10. OPEN CONTAINER

No person shall operate or ride in a vehicle when any opened alcoholic 

beverage is in or on the vehicle.

§7.21.20. TRUNK CARGO OR STORAGE AREA

An opened alcoholic beverage container may be carried in the trunk, 

cargo area, or storage compartment as long as the area is inaccessible 

from the passenger area.

§7.21.30. CLOSED CONTAINERS

If the vehicle does not have a trunk, cargo area, or storage 

compartment that is inaccessible from the passenger area, an opened 

alcoholic beverage may be carried in the vehicle so long as the 

container has been capped, corked, or otherwise closed and the 

container is completely enclosed in a manner that does not allow a 

person to consume the alcoholic beverage. 

§7.21.40. DEFINITIONS

For purposes of this section, the term:

(a) OPENED ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTAINER means an 

alcoholic beverage in a bottle, can, or other container which is 

open or from which the top, cap, cork, seal, or tab seal has at 

some time been removed; and,

(b) ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE means a liquid or solid, patented or not, 

containing alcohol capable of being consumed by a human 

being. The term “alcoholic beverage” shall not include a liquid 

or solid containing less than one-half of 1% of alcohol by 

volume.

17

17 As defined in § 3 of the District of Columbia Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, approved January 24, 1934 (48 

Stat.319; D.C. Code § 25-101).
CHAPTER 8

PARKING, STANDING AND STOPPING INFRACTIONS

§8.1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

§8.1.10. APPLICABILITY

(a) TIME STATED. The provisions of this chapter that prohibit the 

standing or parking of a vehicle shall apply at all times, at the 

times specified in each section or as indicated on official signs. 

(b) EXCEPTIONS. The provisions of this chapter do not apply if it is 

necessary to stop a vehicle to avoid conflict with other traffic

or if in compliance with the direction of a police officer or 

official traffic control device. The provisions of this chapter do 

not apply to person issued Emergency Parking Permits in 

accordance with §8.13.

18

(c) MOST RESTRICTIVE PROVISIONS APPLY. The provisions of this 

chapter that impose a time limit on parking shall not relieve 

any person from the duty to observe other and more restrictive 

provisions that prohibit or limit stopping, standing or parking 

of vehicles in specified places or at specified times. 

§8.1.20. PRESUMPTION IN REFERENCE TO ILLEGAL PARKING

In any prosecution charging a violation of any regulation governing 

the standing or parking of a vehicle, proof that the particular vehicle 

described in the information was parked in violation of any such 

regulation, together with proof that the defendant named in the 

information was at the time of such parking the registered owner of 

such vehicle, shall constitute in evidence a prima facie presumption 

that the registered owner of such vehicle was the person who parked or 

placed such vehicle at the point where, and for the time during which 

such violation occurred.

18 §8.14 (“Emergency Parking Permits”).
§ 8.2. PROPER PARKING

§8.2.10. NO PARKING IN VIOLATION OF SIGNS

It shall be unlawful to park any unauthorized vehicle in violation of the 

parking restrictions stated on the sign wherever and whenever signs 

are erected that indicate parking is prohibited or restricted.

§8.2.20. PARK IN THE DIRECTION OF TRAFFIC

No person shall stand or park a vehicle in a roadway other than 

parallel with the edge of the roadway headed in the direction of lawful 

traffic movement. 

§8.2.30. PARK WITHIN 12” OF CURB

(a) TWO-WAY STREETS. A person shall stand or park a vehicle on 

a two-way street with the right-hand wheels of the vehicle 

within twelve inches (12 in.) of the right curb or edge of the 

roadway. 

(b) ONE-WAY STREETS. On a one-way street, a vehicle may be 

parked in the same manner as on a two-way street or may park 

with the left-hand wheels of the vehicle adjacent to and within 

twelve inches (12 in.) of the left-hand curb. 

§8.2.40. LEFT-SIDE PARKING PROHIBITED

If a highway includes two (2) or more separate roadways and traffic is 

restricted to one direction upon any such roadway, no person shall 

stand or park a vehicle upon the left-hand side of such one-way 

roadway unless signs are erected to permit such standing or parking.

§8.2.50. MOTORCYCLE PARKING

A person may park a motorcycle or motorized bicycle in a direction 

other than parallel with the edge of the roadway, including 

perpendicular with the curb, if the motorcycle or motorized bicycle 

does not obstruct the flow of traffic. 
§ 8.3. GENERAL PARKING

§8.3.10. UNPAVED AREAS

No vehicle shall be parked or left standing on any part of Capitol Grounds 

that is not prepared for vehicular travel. 

§8.3.20. PARKING FOR PERMIT-HOLDERS ONLY

No vehicle shall park in any space where parking is limited to holders of 

official parking permits issued by the House or Senate Sergeant at Arms.

§8.3.30. PARK BETWEEN THE LINES

A vehicle shall be parked between the markers or lines that designate the 

parking space. Persons who park in such a way that cause another vehicle 

to be parked in violation of this subsection shall be held liable for 

violation of this subsection.

§8.3.40. PARKING BETWEEN TWO VEHICLES

When the driver of a vehicle desires to park at the curb when there is room 

enough for only one car between two other cars, he shall drive up parallel 

with the car ahead of the space and back cautiously into the parking space.

§8.3.50. RESERVED PARKING SPACES FOR DISABLED INDIVIDUALS

Parking for individuals with disabilities is permitted only for use of 

individuals with disabilities utilizing vehicles displaying special license 

tags or special permits issued pursuant valid federal or state law. 
§ 8.4. NO SIGN REQUIRED: STOPPING, STANDING AND PARKING

No person shall stop, stand, or park a motor vehicle or trailer, whether occupied or 

not, in any of the following places:

(a) Within an intersection;

(b) On a crosswalk;

(c) Alongside or opposite any street excavation or obstruction when stopping, 

standing, or parking would obstruct traffic;

(d) Upon any bridge, viaduct, or other elevated structure, freeway, highway 

tunnel, or ramps leading to or from such structures, or within a highway 

tunnel;

(e) On any median, channelizing island, or safety zone, whether made of 

concrete, grass, or other material and with curbs or otherwise delineated

by solid yellow or white lines;

(f) In any driveway, alley entrance, or other way when stopping, standing or 

parking would obstruct the flow of pedestrians or other lawful traffic upon 

any sidewalk;

(g) In a bicycle lane; or,

(h) On the sidewalk. 

Parking in the above-listed areas is only permissible when necessary to avoid conflict 

with other traffic, to be in compliance with the law or at the direction of a police 

officer, sign or traffic control device.
§ 8.5. NO SIGN REQUIRED: STANDING OR PARKING ONLY

No person shall stand or park a motor vehicle or trailer, whether occupied or not, in 

any of the following places:

(a) In front of or within five feet (5 ft.) of an alley, public driveway, or private 

driveway;

(b) Within ten feet (10 ft.) of a fire hydrant;

(c) Within forty feet (40 ft.) of the intersection of curb lines of intersecting 

streets or within twenty-five feet (25 ft.) of the intersection of curb lines 

on the far (non-approach) side of a one-way street, unless the car has been 

issued a valid residential parking permit;

19

(d) Within twenty-five feet (25 ft.) of the approach side of any “STOP” or 

“YIELD” sign located at the side of the roadway;

(e) Within fifty feet (50 ft.) of a railroad crossing;

(f) Within twenty feet (20 ft.) of a fire station driveway entrance;

(g) In or on any street or roadway when such parking will reduce the width of 

the open roadway to less than ten feet (10 ft.);

(h) In front of any barricade or sign that has been placed for the purpose of 

closing the street; or,

(i) In any fire lane located on public or private space. 

Parking in the above-listed areas is only permissible when necessary to avoid conflict 

with other traffic, to be in compliance with the law or at the direction of a police 

officer, sign or traffic control device. A vehicle may stop momentarily to pick up or 

discharge a passenger or multiple passengers.

19 See §8.14 (“Residential Parking Permits”).
§ 8.6. NO SIGN REQUIRED: PARKING ONLY

No person shall park a motor vehicle or trailer, whether occupied or not, in any of the 

following places:

(a) On the public parking between the sidewalk space and the building line, 

except parking shall be permitted on public parking at those locations 

designated under this title and at locations authorized by permit and upon 

payment of rent; 

(b) Between a safety zone or channelizing island and the adjacent curb or 

within ninety feet (90 ft.) of points on the curb immediately opposite the 

ends of a safety zone or channelizing island unless otherwise indicated by 

official signs;

(c) On the roadway side of any vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb 

of a street;

(d) Within twenty-five feet (25 ft.) of either side of motorists’ courtesy mail 

boxes;

(e) In any public alley (with the exception of a permit or where designated by 

posted sign); or

(f) In a manner to obstruct the entrance to any garage, parking lot or yard, 

door, or gate used for service purposes. 

Temporary parking in these areas is only permissible for the purpose of and while 

actually engaged in loading or unloading of passengers.

§ 8.7. OVERSIZED VEHICLES

Unless engaged in work for which a vehicle is reasonably necessary, no person shall 

park any of the following oversized vehicles on Capitol Grounds:

(a) Any passenger vehicle with a seating capacity of more than fifteen 

(15) passengers;

(b) A boat;

(c) A trailer, whether loaded or unloaded;

(d) Any vehicle longer than twenty-two feet (22 ft.) or wider than eight 

feet (8 ft.); or

(e) Any vehicle that has been designed or modified to haul trash, junk, 

or debris. 
§ 8.8. LOADING AND UNLOADING: VEHICLES

§8.8.10. DISCHARGING PASSENGERS

If no curb space is available within a reasonable distance, a passenger 

vehicle may stand parallel and as near as practicable to other parked 

vehicles, only long enough to take on passengers who are actually waiting 

at the curb or to leave off passengers. 

§8.8.20. IMPEDING TRAFFIC

Unless prohibited by §8.1120, a vehicle may stop parallel and as near as 

practicable to parked vehicles while loading; provided, that the vehicle 

while so parked will not unreasonably impede or interfere with orderly 

two-way traffic, or on a one-way street, that at least one lane is kept open 

for moving traffic. 

§8.8.30. MOMENTARY STOPPING PERMITTED

On any street, highway, or any portion of a street or highway, where 

parking is prohibited but stopping and standing are not prohibited, 

passenger vehicles may stop momentarily to load and unload passengers, 

and any vehicle may stop long enough to actually load and unload 

materials. 

§ 8.9. LOADING AND UNLOADING: SCHOOL BUSES

§8.9.10. DISCHARGING PASSENGERS

When stopping to load and unload school children along the roadway, a 

school bus driver shall pull as far to the right as is safe, at a place on the 

roadway where there is three hundred feet (300 ft.) or more of clear sight 

distance to the front and rear, and stop only for such time as is actually 

necessary to take on or discharge passengers. 

§8.9.20. FLASHING WHITE LIGHTS REQUIRED

Before making a stop to load or unload passengers, a school bus driver 

shall actuate the flashing white stroboscopic light not less than three 

hundred feet (300 ft.) distant from the stop, and allow the light to remain 

flashing until the bus resumes motion after the stop. 

§8.9.30. FLASHING RED STOP LIGHT REQUIRED

At each stop to pick up or discharge one or more school children, the 

school bus driver shall actuate the flashing red light during the time that 

the bus is stopped to pick up or discharge passengers, and shall turn off the 

light when the bus resumes motion. 

20 §8.10 (“Loading Zones”).
§ 8.10. LOADING ZONES

§8.10.10. ESTABLISHMENT OF LOADING ZONES AND APPLICABILITY

The Board is authorized to determine the location of freight loading zones 

for use of commercial vehicles at the usual shipping and receiving 

entrances of any building on Capitol Grounds. In doing so, the Board 

shall place and maintain the appropriate signage stating the hours that the 

provisions of this paragraph are applicable. The provisions in this section

shall also apply to those zones established by the District of Columbia.

§8.10.20. LOADING RESTRICTED TO MARKED LOADING ZONES

The loading of materials shall be restricted to loading zones in each block 

where such zones have been designated by official signs except during 

hours when parking is prohibited in such area. 

§8.10.30. REASONABLE TIME LIMIT ON LOADING

Unless otherwise indicated by signage, loading zones shall be occupied 

only so long as is reasonable for loading or unloading, and only 

commercial vehicles loading materials in such zones shall be parked 

parallel and adjacent to the curb. Where signs are posted, designated 

loading zones may be occupied by a particular vehicle for up to a 

maximum of two (2) hours. 

§8.10.40. METER FARE REQUIRED 

When parking in a multi-space parking meter loading zone, the operator of 

a motor vehicle shall, immediately after parking, pay for the amount of 

loading or unloading time desired. If a receipt is issued by the multi-space 

parking meter, the motor vehicle driver shall place the receipt face up on 

the passenger side of the dashboard of the vehicle so that it is clearly 

visible through the windshield of the vehicle. The vehicle may then 

occupy the space up to the time limit indicated on the receipt, but in no 

case for longer than two (2) hours. 
§8.10.50. TIME LIMIT

No person shall park a motor vehicle in a multi-space parking meter 

loading zone longer than the time required to load or unload the vehicle. 

§8.10.60. EXPIRED METER

A vehicle shall be considered illegally parked if:

(a) A multi-space parking meter indicates overtime parking with 

respect to the parking metered loading zone in which the vehicle is 

parked;

(b) The expiration time indicated on the parking meter receipt 

displayed on the vehicle has lapsed;

(c) The vehicle does not display a receipt in the manner required by 

§8.11.50; or

(d) The vehicle does not display a receipt. 

The above-listed sections (a) – (d) do not apply during times when parking 

in the metered loading zone is unrestricted.

§8.10.70. PERMISSIBLE PARKING TIMES

Parking metered loading zones may be used without charge during times 

when the time for parking in the metered loading zone is unrestricted. 
§ 8.11. PARKING METERS AND PARKING METER ZONES

§8.11.10. PARKING METER ZONE

A parking meter zone is designated as the space parallel to the curb 

extending from the center of the parking meter standard at the head of the 

space to the center of the parking meter standard or other marking at the 

rear of the space; except that if a parking meter zone is served by a multispace parking meter, the parking meter zone may be designated by signs 

or pavement markings. 

§8.11.20. PARKING PROHIBITED

No vehicle shall park in a parking meter zone at any time when such 

parking is otherwise prohibited.

§8.11.30. NO PARKING PAST METER LIMIT

No person shall park or cause, allow, permit, or suffer any vehicle 

registered in his or her name to be parked overtime or beyond the lawful 

period of time indicated on the meter. This provision does not apply to

spaces established for car-sharing programs. 21

§8.11.40. PARK WITHIN MARKED AREA

No person shall park or cause to be parked any vehicle so that the vehicle

is not within the area between the designated standards or other 

marking(s) delimiting the parking space. 

§8.11.50. NO PARKING BEYOND ZONE

No person shall stop, stand, or park in a parking meter zone any vehicle 

which exceeds the designated length of the parking meter zone. 

21 See 18 DCMR § 2406.18.
§8.11.60. DISPLAY OF RECEIPT

Immediately after parking a motor vehicle, the operator shall pay for the 

amount of parking time desired and, if a receipt is issued, place the receipt 

on the passenger side of the dashboard of the vehicle so that it is clearly 

visible through the windshield of the vehicle. The space may then be used 

by the vehicle during the parking limit indicated on the single-space or 

multi-space parking meter for that space or on the receipt issued, as is 

applicable, or for the amount of time that is confirmed through a pay-byphone system. 

§8.11.70. PURCHASING BEYOND TIME LIMIT

No person shall purchase more time than allowed for parking in a parking 

meter zone as indicated by the signs in the zone and on the parking meter. 

§8.11.80. ILLEGAL PARKING

Except in zones where signs indicate payment is not needed22 and in carsharing spaces23, a vehicle shall be considered illegally parked if:

(a) The amount of time paid for at a single-space or multi-space 

parking meter has lapsed;

(b) The expiration time indicated on the parking meter receipt 

displayed on the vehicle has lapsed;

(c) The vehicle does not display a receipt in the manner required by 

§8.12.60; or;

(d) The amount of time paid for using the pay-by-phone system has 

lapsed.

§8.11.90. NO CHARGE REQUIRED

Parking meter zones may be used without charge at times when the signs 

and meters in those zones indicate payment is not needed. 

§8.11.100. UNEXPIRED TIME IS TRANSFERRABLE

Except for parking meter zones served by parking meters that issue 

receipts, the unexpired time in a parking meter zone, which is unoccupied, 

may be used by another vehicle without depositing payment. A car 

displaying a receipt issued by a parking meter may park in any unoccupied 

parking meter zone that is served by a parking meter that issues receipts 

until the expiration time shown on the parking meter receipt has lapsed. 

§8.11.110. EXCEPTION FOR GOVERNMENT VEHICLES

Whenever a vehicle identified by license plates as being owned, rented, or 

leased by the federal or District government, is being used on official 

business and is parked in a parking meter zone, the operator of the vehicle 

is not required to deposit payment to park in the parking meter zone. 

22 See 18 DCMR § 2404.9. 23 See 18 DCMR § 2406.18.
§ 8.12. RESTRICTED USE OF VALET PARKING, VALET STAGING, BUS, TAXICAB AND 

SIGHTSEEING ZONES AND STANDS

§8.12.10. GENERAL

(a) NO PARKING OR STANDING. No person shall stand or park a 

vehicle in a valet parking zone or valet staging zone unless 

authorized to do so; in a bus stand, stop, or zone, other than a bus 

authorized to use the bus stand, stop, or zone; in a taxicab stand, 

other than a taxicab authorized to use the taxicab stand; or in a 

sightseeing stand, other than a sightseeing vehicle authorized to 

use the sightseeing stand. 

(b) DISCHARGE OF PASSENGERS PERMITTED. A driver of a passenger 

vehicle may stop momentarily in a stand, stop, or zone described in 

(a) for the purpose of and while actually picking up or discharging 

passengers, as long as such stopping does not interfere with any 

vehicle, bus, taxicab, or sightseeing vehicle about to enter the stand 

or zone designated for the use of such vehicle. 

§8.12.20. DRIVER TO REMAIN NEAR VEHICLE

The driver of any vehicle parked in a bus, taxicab, or sightseeing stand in 

accordance with this section shall remain within five feet (5 ft.) of the 

vehicle at all times.

§8.12.30 BUS ZONE RESTRICTIONS

At locations where a bus stop is posted but bus zone or bus stand signs do 

not exist, there shall be no parking or standing by vehicles other than a bus 

within twenty feet (20 ft.) of the approach side of a bus stop sign. 

However, a vehicle may stop momentarily to pick up or discharge a 

passenger or passengers. Loading or unloading of materials is prohibited, 

and the posting of signs to indicate this restriction is not required. 

§8.12.40. PARKING RESTRICTIONS EFFECTIVE AT ALL TIMES 

The prohibition against parking or standing at such stands and zones shall 

be effective at all times, unless the restricted periods have been otherwise 

designated and signs posted accordingly. 
§ 8.13. EMERGENCY PARKING PERMITS

§8.13.10. PERMISSIBLE PARKING

Holders of emergency parking permits issued by the Board may stand or 

park their vehicles in available parking space in the roadway at the 

following locations:

(a) Entrances to office buildings, apartment buildings, hotels, nursing 

homes, and residences;

(b) Loading zones;

(c) Within spaces set aside for holders of official parking permits;

(d) Within part or all of the twenty-five foot (25 ft.) space on the far or 

non-approach side of the intersection of a one-way street with 

another street, but not within ten feet (10 ft.) of the curb line of the 

intersecting street or within a marked crosswalk; and

(e) Taxicab and sightseeing vehicle stands. 

The holder of the permit must be parked in accordance with any other 

applicable section of these regulations.

§8.13.20. PARKING FOR EMERGENCY PURPOSES ONLY

Emergency parking permits shall be used only while the holder is actually 

responding to an emergency believed to be one in which the life or death 

of any individual is dependent upon standing or parking by a physician in 

the places permitted in §8.14.10. 

§8.13.30. PERMIT MUST BE VISIBLE

While a vehicle for which a permit has been issued is parked in 

accordance with this section, the permit shall be displayed so that it is

clearly visible through the windshield of the vehicle. 

§8.13.40. TRANSFER PROHIBITED

No person other than the permittee named on the permit shall use an 

emergency parking permit or display it on a vehicle operated or parked. 

Any such use or display by a person other than the permittee shall 

constitute a violation of these regulations by the permittee and by the 

person who so used or displayed it. 

§8.13.50. FAILURE TO SURRENDER 

Failure to surrender a revoked emergency parking permit upon request 

shall constitute a violation of these regulations. 
§ 8.14. RESIDENTIAL PERMIT PARKING

§8.14.10. 2 HOUR PARKING LIMIT

Parking a motor vehicle on a residential parking permit street within the 

same zone is limited and restricted beyond a consecutive two (2) hour 

period. This restriction shall be in effect as posted.

§8.14.20. PROPER AFFIXATION

While a vehicle for which a residential parking permit has been issued is 

parked in the residential permit parking zone, the permit shall be affixed by 

its own adhesive to the lower left (driver’s) side of the windshield so that it 

is clearly visible through the windshield of the vehicle; Provided, that in the 

case of a motorcycle, motorized bicycle, or trailer, the permit shall be 

affixed to a mounting tab which shall be bolted to either corner of the 

identification tag. Expired permits shall not be left visible on a vehicle after 

affixing a new permit. 

§8.14.30. NO TIME LIMIT

Vehicles displaying a valid residential parking permit may park at all times, 

within a designated residential permit parking zone, twenty-five (25) feet or 

more from the intersection. The Director of the District Department of 

Transportation shall have the discretion to exempt intersections from the 

parking restriction moratorium established by this section that the Board

determines would be inappropriate and unsafe with such parking. 

§8.14.40. VISIBILITY AND DISPLAY

(a) VEHICLES. While a vehicle for which a residential permit 

parking sticker has been issued is parked in the residential permit 

parking zone, the residential permit parking sticker shall be 

affixed by its own adhesive to the lower left (driver’s) side of 

the windshield so that it is clearly visible through the windshield 

of the vehicle.

(b) MOTORCYCLES. Any motorcycle, motorized bicycle or trailer

shall affix the residential permit parking sticker to a mounting 

tab bolted to either corner of the identification tab.

(c) EXPIRED STICKERS. Expired residential permit parking stickers 

shall not be left visible. 

§8.14.50. VALIDITY

A residential permit parking sticker shall be valid only when displayed in 

accordance with the standards under §8.15.40. 

§8.14.60. ONE PERMIT PER VEHICLE

Simultaneous display of current residential parking stickers for more than 

one (1) zone shall make all the residential permit parking stickers invalid 

and shall be prima facie evidence of misrepresentation on the residential 

permit parking sticker application. 
§8.14.70. PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITED

A residential permit parking sticker shall not authorize the vehicle 

displaying the sticker to stand or park in any place or during any times 

when the stopping, standing, or parking of motor vehicles is prohibited or 

set aside for specific types of vehicles, nor provide an exemption from the 

observance of any traffic regulation other than the residential permit 

parking two (2) hour parking limit and the exemptions listed in §8.15.80. 

§8.14.80. PERMISSIBLE PARKING

Between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 7:30 a.m., vehicles displaying a valid 

residential parking permit may park, within a designated residential permit 

parking zone, in the following manner:

(a) In loading zones, except loading zones used by hotels; and

(b) In entrances, except hospital entrances. 

§8.14.90. TRANSFER OF STICKERS PROHIBITED

No sticker or permit for residential permit parking shall be used or 

displayed on any vehicle other than the one (1) for which it was issued. 

Any sticker or permit so displayed shall be void, and any unauthorized 

display of stickers or permits shall constitute a violation of this section by 

the sticker holder and by the owner or the operator of the vehicle 

displaying the permit. 

§ 8.15. VISITOR OR TEMPORARY PERMITS

§8.15.10. REPLICATION UNLAWFUL

The forgery, counterfeiting or unauthorized use or replication of a visitor 

permit or temporary permit shall be punishable by a fine of $300. 
§ 8.16. TEMPORARY AND EMERGENCY PARKING RESTRICTIONS

§8.16.10. ASSEMBLIES

Whenever by reason of the scheduled assembly of a large number of 

persons at any public or semi-public building, embassy, legation, stadium, 

or other place of assembly, it is determined that the free flow of traffic 

upon the street or streets leading to or from the building, embassy, 

legation, stadium or other place of assembly, is or will be impeded by 

reason of the parking of vehicles, parking shall be prohibited (or 

restricted) on the street(s) during the hours that the free flow of traffic is or 

will be impeded by parking. 

§8.16.20. CONSTRUCTION

Whenever construction work upon or adjacent to any highway causes the 

width of the roadway to be reduced, parking shall be prohibited upon the 

roadway adjacent to and for a reasonable distance on either side of the 

construction work. If it is determined that the reduced roadway width will 

impede the flow of traffic except where the highway is physically divided 

into separate roadways carrying traffic in opposite directions, parking shall 

also be prohibited on the side of the roadway opposite to and for a 

reasonable distance on either side of the construction work. 

§8.16.30. PARADES

Parking shall be prohibited on streets for which parade permits have been 

issued by the Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department, including 

streets necessary for assembling and disbanding of parades, for a 

reasonable time prior to, during, and for a reasonable time after such 

parades.24

§8.16.40. EMERGENCIES

When, as a result of the closing of any street to traffic by reason of a 

parade or emergency conditions, the flow of traffic on adjacent streets is 

or will be increased, or it is found that the free flow of traffic upon the 

adjacent streets is or will be impeded due to the parking of vehicles, 

parking shall be prohibited during such hours that it is found that the free 

flow of traffic is or will be impeded. 

24 Parades may be permitted on Louisiana Avenue. See 40 U.S.C. § 5106(c) (“Suspension of Prohibitions”). See

Appendix F.
§8.16.50. PROPER DISPLAY OF PARKING PERMIT PLACARDS

(a) PLACARD: PROPER DISPLAY

Whenever a special events parking permit placard has been issued 

to allow parking in a specified restricted area or on a specified 

restricted street or portion thereof, the placard must be displayed 

on the left side of the dashboard of the vehicle so that it is clearly 

visible from the outside of the vehicle.

(b) STICKERS: DISPLAY AND EXPIRATION

Whenever a special events parking permit sticker has been issued 

to allow parking in a specified restricted area or on a specified 

restricted street or portion of that street, to be valid the permit shall 

be affixed by its own adhesive to the lower left (driver's) side of 

the windshield so that it is clearly visible through the windshield of 

the vehicle. Expired permits shall not be left visible on a vehicle.

§8.16.60. TAMPERING WITH SIGNS

(a) INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL. No person, other than the United 

States Capitol Police, the Architect of the Capitol, the House 

Sergeant at Arms, the Senate Sergeant at Arms or any other entity 

with the authority to regulate traffic, shall remove or install a sign 

on public space that prohibits or reserves parking.

(b) VANDALIZING. No person may vandalize or deface a sign in public 

space that prohibits or reserves parking. Any person violating this 

subsection shall be subject to a civil fine of $100 for the 1st 

violation, $200 for the 2nd violation, and $400 for the 3rd and 

subsequent violations.

(c) NO PARKING IN VIOLATION OF SIGNS. Whenever a sign is erected 

indicating that parking is prohibited or reserved under this section, 

it shall be unlawful to park any unauthorized vehicle in violation of 

the parking restrictions stated on the sign.

§8.16.70. ADVANCE NOTICE WAIVER

A sign prohibiting or reserving parking shall be erected at least twenty-four 

(24) hours in advance in a non-residentially zoned area. If a sign is erected 

in a residentially zoned area, the sign prohibiting or reserving parking shall 

be erected at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance. The Board for 

extraordinary circumstances shown may waive this required advance notice 

for good cause.
§ 8.17. OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PARKING

§8.17.10. PROPER DISPLAY

Government officials parking in official parking areas shall display, in a 

conspicuous place behind the windshield of their vehicle, an “Official 

Parking Permit” which is issued by the Board. 

§ 8.18. STREET CLEANING PARKING PROVISIONS

§8.18.10. NO PARKING

No person shall park any vehicle or permit any vehicle to remain parked 

during the times and days indicated on a Street Cleaning Route. 

§ 8.19. SNOW EMERGENCY PARKING REGULATIONS

§8.19.10. SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTES

After the effective time of the prohibition, no person shall park any 

vehicle or permit any vehicle to remain parked on a Snow Emergency 

Route. However, if a fall of snow, sleet or freezing rain occurs between 

11:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. and the Director has not announced prior to 

11:30 p.m. that parking on Snow Emergency Routes is prohibited after a 

specified time, a vehicle parked on a Snow Emergency Route may remain 

so parked until 7:00 a.m. 
§ 8.20. LITTERING AND DEBRIS

§8.20.10. GLASS AND OTHER DEBRIS

No person shall throw or deposit upon any street, highway, sidewalk, or 

alley, any glass bottle, glass, nails, tacks, wire, cans, or any other 

substance likely to injure any person, animal, or vehicle upon the street, 

highway, sidewalk, or alleyway. 

§8.20.20. FAILURE TO REMOVE HARMFUL MATERIAL

Any person who drops, or permits to be dropped or thrown, upon any 

street, highway, sidewalk, or alley, any destructive or injurious material, 

shall immediately remove the same or cause it to be removed. 

§8.20.30. TOWING AND REMOVAL OF WRECKED VEHICLES

Any person removing a wrecked or damaged vehicle from a street, 

highway, sidewalk, or alley shall remove any glass or other injurious 

substance dropped upon the street, highway, sidewalk, or alley from the 

vehicle. 

§ 8.21 ADVERTISING

§8.21.10. GENERAL

No person shall drive or park any vehicle on any street or highway for the 

primary purpose of displaying advertising.

§8.21.20. DE MINIMUS DISPLAY

No person shall drive or park on any street or highway within the Capitol 

Grounds any vehicle that by reasons of its special shape or design shall be 

construed as intended primarily for advertising purposes without a permit 

from the Capitol Police Board.
§ 8.22. MISCELLANEOUS NON-MOVING VIOLATIONS

§8.22.10. UNATTENDED VEHICLES

No persons driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand 

unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, 

removing the key, and effectively setting the brake. 

§8.22.20. TURNING WHEELS TO CURB

In addition to the requirements of §8.22.10, whenever a motor vehicle is 

standing on a grade, the driver or person in charge of the vehicle shall not 

permit it to stand unattended without first turning the front wheels to the 

curb or side of the highway. 

§8.22.30. IDLE ENGINE

No person owning, operating, or having control over the engine of a 

gasoline or diesel powered motor vehicle on public or private space, 

including the engine of a public vehicles for hire, buses with a seating 

capacity of twelve (12) or more persons, and school buses or any vehicle 

transporting students, shall allow that engine to idle for more than three 

(3) minutes while the motor vehicle is parked, stopped, or standing, 

including for the purpose of operating air conditioning equipment in those 

vehicles, except as follows:

(a) To operate private passenger vehicles;

(b) To operate power takeoff equipment, including dumping, cement 

mixers, refrigeration systems, content delivery, winches, or 

shredders; or

(c) To idle the engine for no more than five (5) minutes to operate 

heating equipment when the ambient air temperature is thirty-two 

degrees Fahrenheit (32° F) or below. 

§8.22.40. DISPLAY OF SALE AND REPAIR

No person shall park a vehicle upon any roadway for the principal purpose 

of doing either of the following:

(a) Displaying the vehicle for sale; or

(b) Greasing or repairing the vehicle, except minor repairs necessitated 

by an emergency. 
CHAPTER 9

TAXICABS AND VEHICLES FOR HIRE

§ 9.1. APPLICABILITY

This chapter shall apply to the operation of every public or private vehicle-for-hire

that operates on Capitol Grounds or within the extended jurisdiction of the United

States Capitol Police.

§9.1.10 DEFINITIONS

(a) Limousine: a public vehicle-for-hire that operates exclusively 

through advanced registration, charges exclusively on the basis of 

time, and shall not accept street hails.

(b) Private vehicle-for-hire: a class of transportation service by 

which a network of private vehicle-for-hire operators in the District of 

Columbia provides transportation to passengers to whom the private 

vehicle-for-hire operators are connected by digital dispatch.

(c) Private vehicle-for-hire company: an organization, including a 

corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship, operating in the 

District of Columbia that uses digital dispatch to connect passengers to 

a network of private vehicle-for-hire operators.

(d) Private vehicle-for-hire operator: an individual who operates a 

personal motor vehicle-for-hire service in contract with a private 

vehicle-for-hire company.

(e) Public vehicle-for-hire: a class of transportation service by 

motor vehicle for hire in the District of Columbia, including a taxicab 

or limousine, that provides for-hire service exclusively using drivers 

and vehicles licensed pursuant to District of Columbia law.

(f) Taxicab: a class of public vehicle-for-hire that may be hired by 

dispatch, digital dispatch, or hailed on the street, and for which the fare 

charged is calculated by a District of Columbia Taxicab Commissionapproved meter with uniform rates determined by the District of 

Columbia Taxicab Commission.

§ 9.2. FAILURE TO GIVE RECEIPT UPON REQUEST

A taxicab operator, when requested by a passenger or a person requesting messenger 

or parcel delivery service, shall give a receipt showing the following:

(a) Operator's name;

(b) Identification card number;

(c) Vehicle tag number;

(d) Time, date;

(e) The amount of the fare; and

(f) Commission's complaint phone number.

§ 9.3. DISPLAY OF IDENTIFICATION FOR TAXICABS

§9.3.10. FAILURE TO DISPLAY
The vehicle identification card (DCTC license) issued under § 31(d) of 

the License Act (D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(d) (2001)) shall be 

displayed at all times in the taxicab for which it is issued.

§9.3.20. FAILURE TO MAKE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION

The vehicle identification card shall be carried in the taxicab and made 

available for inspection upon the request of any hack inspector or law 

enforcement personnel. 

§9.3.30. IDENTIFICATION MUST BE VISIBLE TO PASSENGER

The operator identification card (face) issued to the driver pursuant to 

§ 31(e) of the License Act (D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(e)(1) 

(2001)) shall be displayed in a bracket or receptacle of a type approved 

by the Commission and shall be firmly attached to the right sun visor 

so as to be visible to any passenger in the vehicle. 

§9.3.40. REMOVAL FROM UNATTENDED VEHICLES

At all times when the operator is not in the vicinity of the taxicab, the 

operator shall remove the identification card from the vehicle. For the 

purposes of this section "vicinity" means not more than twenty-five 

feet (25 ft.) from the taxicab. 

§9.3.50. PASSENGER RIGHTS DISPLAY

There shall be displayed in a suitable frame on the right side of the 

back of the front seat of each taxicab, in a position clearly visible to 

passengers, the passenger rights which shall display the tag number, 

the company, association, fleet or owner's name, and the taxicab 

number. 
§ 9.4. SOLICITING PASSENGERS

§9.4.10. SOLICITING PROHIBITED

No person shall solicit business for public or private vehicles-for-hire

anywhere on Capitol Grounds. Private vehicles-for-hire are still 

prohibited under section 9.12.10 from making street hails anywhere in 

the District of Columbia. 

§9.4.20. LOITERING

No public or private vehicle-for-hire operator shall loiter with a public 

or private vehicle-for-hire around or in front of any hotel, theater, 

public building, or place of public gathering, except to take on or 

discharge a passenger. 

§9.4.30. REFUSAL TO HAUL

Public vehicle-for-hire operators shall, at all times when on duty and 

not engaged, furnish service on demand to any person, except as 

provided for in §9.4.40. 

§9.4.40. EXCEPTIONS

No public or private vehicle-for-hire operator shall refuse to transport 

a person while holding his or her vehicle for hire, unless:

(a) Previously engaged;

(b) Unable or forbidden by the provisions of this title to do so;

(c) The operator has reason to believe the person is engaged in a 

violation of law; or

(d) The operator has cause to fear injury to his or her person, 

property or vehicle. 

§9.4.50. HELD FOR HIRE

Any taxicab occupying a taxicab stand shall be considered to be held 

for hire. Private vehicles-for-hire are prohibited from occupying a 

taxicab stand.
§9.4.60. AVAILABILITY

Any taxicab being operated on the streets shall be considered held for 

hire when:

(a) Not occupied by a passenger; or;

(b) Not displaying an "ON CALL," "OFF DUTY," or "OUT OF 

SERVICE" sign as authorized by the Commission's rules and 

regulations. 

§9.4.70. REFUSAL OF SERVICE 

Except in shared riding, the operator shall not ask the destination of 

the passenger until the passenger is in the public or private vehicle-forhire. A dispatcher shall not ask the destination of a passenger. If the 

dispatcher learns the destination of a passenger, that dispatcher shall 

not then convey the destination when dispatching an operator to pick 

up the passenger unless requested to do so by the passenger or the 

passenger has an emergency.
§ 9.5. ON-CALL AND OFF-DUTY SIGNS

§9.5.10. “ON CALL” DISPLAY

Whenever a taxicab is proceeding to take on a passenger in answer to a 

telephone call or previous appointment, or is engaged by the hour for 

the carriage of passengers or making an emergency delivery of a 

parcel or package, the operator shall display a sign reading "ON 

CALL.” 

§9.5.20. “OFF DUTY” DISPLAY

Whenever a taxicab operator ceases to be for hire and is proceeding to 

a place without intending to take on passengers, the operator shall 

display a sign reading "OFF DUTY" or "OUT OF SERVICE," whichever is 

appropriate under these regulations, and turn off the cruising light. The 

operator shall enter on the manifest "OUT OF SERVICE" or "OFF DUTY," 

and the time and location. The "OFF DUTY" sign shall not be displayed 

during rush hours between 7:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., and 4:00 p.m. and 

6:30 p.m. 

§9.5.30. PROPER PLACEMENT OF SIGNS

All "ON CALL," "OFF DUTY," and "OUT OF SERVICE" signs shall be 

displayed at the bottom of the right half of the windshield so as not to 

obstruct the operator's vision. These signs shall be uniform in size and 

lettering, three inches by fifteen inches (3 in. x 15 in.) with letters two 

inches (2 in.) in height. The signs may be of a manufactured type and 

lighted from within, and may be smaller in dimension than three 

inches by fifteen inches (3 in. x 15 in.), when they have been approved 

by the Commission. 

§9.5.40. SIGNS MUST BE SECURED WHEN NOT IN USE

"ON CALL," "OFF DUTY," and "OUT OF SERVICE" signs shall be placed 

and secured in the taxicab vehicle so they are not readily accessible to 

the operator while the taxicab vehicle is available for hire when not in 

use. 
§ 9.6. CRUISING LIGHTS

§9.6.10. CRUISING LIGHT REQUIRED

Each taxicab licensed in the District shall be equipped with a 

permanently affixed cruising light to distinguish it from other vehicles. 

No cruising light shall be affixed by magnetic or other means so as to 

be easily removed. 

§9.6.20. CRUISING LIGHT MUST BE ILLUMINATED

The cruising light of a taxicab shall be illuminated at all times when 

the taxicab is for hire during the hours when driving lights are 

required, and shall be turned off when the taxicab is not for hire. 

§9.6.30. LIGHTS ON “ON CALL”

Whenever a taxicab is responding to a telephone call or previous 

engagement and is displaying the "ON CALL" sign as provided in the 

Commission's rules, the cruising light shall be turned off. 

§9.6.40. LIGHTS OFF “ON DUTY”

Whenever a taxicab operator removes his or her vehicle from service 

and is proceeding to a place of his or her choosing without intending to 

take on passengers and is displaying the "OFF DUTY" sign, as provided 

in the Commission's rules, the cruising light shall be turned off. 

§9.6.50. PROPER WORKING CONDITION

No taxicab shall be operated in the public service unless its cruising 

light is in proper working condition. 
§ 9.7. TAXICAB STANDS

§9.7.10. AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

No taxicab shall be placed upon or occupy any taxicab stand except for 

the purpose of being held forth for hire. Taxicabs shall be placed on 

stands only from the rear and shall be moved forward and to the front 

of the stand immediately as space becomes available by the departure 

or movement of preceding taxicabs. It shall be within the passenger's 

discretion to determine which taxicab to engage on a taxi stand. 

§9.7.20. LOITERING

When a taxicab stand is occupied to its full capacity, no taxicab shall 

loiter or wait nearby for the purpose of occupying space on the stand. 

The operator of every taxicab occupying a stand shall stay within five 

feet (5 ft.) of his or her taxicab at all times. 

§9.7.30. BLOCKING AT TAXICAB STANDS PROHIBITED

In the event any taxicab on a taxicab stand attempts to leave, other 

taxicabs on the stand shall, if necessary, move so as to permit the 

taxicab to leave. 

§9.7.40. PARKING REGULATIONS APPLY TO STANDS

No taxicab stand shall be occupied by a taxicab in violation of 

regulations prohibiting parking, stopping, or standing on the street on 

which it is located during the hours 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., and 4:00 

p.m. to 6:30 p.m. or during the existence of any snow or other 

emergency declared. 

§ 9.7.50. PRIVATE VEHICLES-FOR-HIRE AND LIMOUSINES PROHIBITED FROM 

TAXICAB STANDS

Private vehicles-for-hire and limousines are prohibited from occupying 

taxicab stands.
§ 9.8. OPERATION OF TAXICABS

§9.8.10. HACK LICENSE AND PERMIT REQUIRED

No person shall drive or be in physical control of a taxicab unless they 

have in their possession a valid identification card or valid motor 

vehicle operator’s permit issued to that individual.25

§9.8.20. SAFE OPERATION AND OBEDIENCE TO LAWS

The operation of taxicabs shall be conducted in accordance with the 

laws of the District and with due regard for the safety, comfort and 

convenience of passengers, for the safe and careful transportation of 

property, and for the safety of the general public. All reasonable 

efforts shall be made to promote safety at all times and under all 

conditions. 

§9.8.30. NO LOADING IN A CROSSWALK

No taxicab operator shall stop to load or unload passengers on the 

traffic side of the street, while occupying any intersection or 

crosswalk, or in such a manner as to unduly interfere with the orderly 

flow of traffic. All taxicab drivers shall pull as close to the curb or 

edge of the roadway as possible to take on or discharge passengers. 

§9.8.40. PULLING TO CURB

No taxicab operator shall stop or park a taxicab adjacent to any curb 

except as follows:

(a) While actually taking on or discharging passengers;

(b) When occupying a designated public vehicle stand for taxicabs;

(c) When answering a call or delivering a parcel; or

(d) When not holding his or her vehicle for hire, in which event the 

identification card shall be removed from the taxicab and the 

driver shall be away from the taxicab on business of his or her 

own.

25 A valid ID card is any card issued under D.C. Official Code § 47-2829(e) (2001). An operator’s permit is either a 

District of Columbia motor vehicle operator's permit or, for non-District residents or persons exempt from 

obtaining a District motor vehicle operator's permit, a valid motor vehicle operator's permit issued by a state that 

is a party to the Driver License Compact Act, D.C. Official Code § 50-1001 et seq. (2001). 
§ 9.9. MANIFEST RECORD

§9.9.10. MAINTENANCE

Every operator of a taxicab shall maintain, in ink, a manifest of all 

trips made by the taxicab while under his or her control, in a form 

approved by the Commission.26

§9.9.20. CONTENTS 

The manifest should contain, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) The date, operator's identification card number, taxicab 

company, vehicle number, and license plate number;

(b) The interstate mileage at the beginning and ending of an 

interstate trip;

(c) The time and place of origin and time and place of destination 

of each trip;

(d) The number of passengers and fare charged for each trip; and

(e) The time and interstate mileage at the end of the workday.27

§9.9.30. ACCURACY

A complete and accurate record of all information required on the 

manifest shall be kept, and each trip record shall be logged 

immediately following completion of the trip. 

§9.9.40. ALTERATION 

Manifests are official documents of the Commission and shall not be 

altered. Evidence of alteration may be referred to the appropriate 

authority for enforcement action. 

§ 9.10. VEHICLES FOR HIRE AND SIGHTSEEING VEHICLES

§9.10.10. IDENTIFICATION LICENSE

No person shall drive a public vehicle for hire in the District unless he 

or she has a valid identification license.

28

§9.10.20. OPERATOR LICENSE

No owner of a public or private vehicle-for-hire for hire shall operate 

or permit the vehicle to be operated without a valid operator license.29

§9.10.30. SIGHTSEEING VEHICLES

No person shall operate or permit to be operated any vehicle used for 

sightseeing purposes unless a certificate permitting that use is issued 

by the Chairperson of the District of Columbia Taxicab Commission. 

26 A manifest is a daily log of trips. 27 Form can be found in Appendix 8-3 under the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations. 28 Identification Licenses are issued under the provisions of Chapter 31 of the District of Columbia Code of 

Municipal Regulations. 29 Operator Licenses are issued under the provisions of Chapter 31 of the District of Columbia Code of Municipal 

Regulations.
§ 9.11. LIMOUSINES 

§9.11.10. LICENSE REQUIRED

Each limousine operator's license shall have marked on its face a 

statement indicating it is valid only for the type of vehicle operation 

for which it is issued and is nontransferable. 

§9.11.20. IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Each license shall contain a number, photograph of the licensee, and 

any other information that the Commission considers appropriate. 

§ 9.12. PRIVATE VEHICLES FOR HIRE

§9.12.10 STREET HAILS PROHIBITED

Private vehicles-for-hire shall not solicit or accept street hails and may 

only be booked through a private vehicle-for-hire company.

§9.12.20 TRADE DRESS

All private vehicle-for-hire operators must display a private vehicle-forhire company trade dress while operating their vehicle-for-hire. The trade 

dress must be distinctive and be displayed prominently on the exterior or 

on a window of the vehicle, provided the trade dress does not obstruct the 

driver’s view. The trade dress must be on file and approved by the 

District of Columbia Taxicab Commission. The trade dress must be 

sufficiently large and color contrasted to be visible from a distance of 50ft, 

as well as be reflective, illuminated, or otherwise visible in darkness.

§9.12.30 OPERATION OF PRIVATE VEHICLES FOR HIRE

(a) No private vehicle-for-hire operator shall stop to load or unload 

passengers on the traffic side of the street, while occupying any 

intersection or crosswalk, or in such a manner as to unduly interfere 

with the orderly flow of traffic. All private vehicle-for-hire drivers 

shall pull as close to the curb or edge of the roadway as possible to 

take on or discharge passengers.

(b) No private vehicle-for-hire operator shall stop or park a private 

vehicle-for-hire adjacent to any curb except as follows: while actually 

taking on or discharging passengers; when occupying a designated 

passenger loading zone; when answering a call or delivering a parcel; 

or when not using his or her private vehicle as a private-vehicle-for 

hire, in which event the trade dress shall be removed from the vehicle 

and the driver shall be away from the vehicle on business of his or her 

own.

CHAPTER 10

FUNERALS

§ 10.1. PERMIT REQUIRED

§10.1.10. NO FUNERAL PROCESSIONS THROUGH CAPITOL SQUARE

No funeral procession shall be driven over any street or roadway in the 

area known as Capitol Square unless specifically permitted to do so by 

the Congress. 

§ 10.2. RESPONSIBILITIES OF FUNERAL PROCESSION MEMBERS

§10.2.10. STAY TO THE RIGHT

Each driver in a funeral or other procession shall drive as near to the 

right-hand edge of the roadway as practicable and shall follow the 

vehicle ahead as close as is practicable and safe. 

§10.2.20. PROCEEDING THROUGH AN INTERSECTION

The leading vehicle in a funeral procession shall stop at any 

intersection where the traffic control device requires such a stop, but 

after the leading vehicle has entered the intersection, all vehicles in the 

funeral procession shall continue their passage except in the instance 

there is a funeral escort officer preceding the funeral procession. 

§10.2.30. HEADLIGHT DISPLAY

A funeral composed of a procession of vehicles in order to be 

recognized as such, shall display on each vehicle two (2) illuminated 

headlights. 

§10.2.40 DISPLAY OF HEADLIGHTS ON RETURN

The vehicles in a procession returning from a funeral shall not display 

headlights, except during the hours when lights are required to be 

displayed on all motor vehicles. 

§ 10.3. DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES

§10.3.10. DRIVING THROUGH A FUNERAL PROCESSION

No driver of a vehicle shall drive between the vehicles comprising a 

funeral or other authorized procession while they are in motion. The 

provision shall not apply at intersections where traffic is controlled by 

traffic control signals or police officers unless provided in this chapter. 

ARTICLE III: PEDESTRIANS, BICYCLES AND OTHER TRAFFIC
CHAPTER 11

PEDESTRIAN INFRACTIONS

§ 11.1. GENERAL

§11.1.10. PEDESTRIANS SUBJECT TO TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

Pedestrians shall be subject to traffic control signals as provided 

Chapter 2.

30 At all other places, pedestrians shall be accorded the 

privileges and shall be subject to the restrictions stated in this chapter. 

§11.1.20. PEDESTRIAN IDENTIFICATION

(a) IDENTIFICATION FOR INFRACTION ONLY. A pedestrian who is 

stopped by a police officer or other authorized official after the 

pedestrian has committed an infraction of these regulations 

shall be required to inform the officer or other official of his or 

her true name and address for the purpose of including that 

information on a notice of infraction; provided, that no 

pedestrian shall be required to possess or display any 

documentary proof of his or her name or address in order to 

comply with the requirements of this section. 

(b) PENALTY. A pedestrian who refuses to provide his or her name 

and address to a police officer upon request after having been 

stopped for committing an infraction of these regulations shall, 

upon conviction, be fined not less than $100 nor more than 

$250.

30 Chapter 2 (“Traffic Signs, Signals, Symbols and Devices”).
§ 11.2. RIGHT-OF-WAY IN CROSSWALKS

§11.2.10. APPLICATION

No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb, safety platform, safety 

zone, loading platform, or other designated place of safety and walk or 

turn into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for 

the driver to yield. 

§11.2.20. JAYWALKING

No pedestrian shall cross a roadway intersection diagonally unless 

authorized by official traffic control devices. 

§11.2.30. OBEDIENCE TO SIGNALS

When authorized to cross diagonally, pedestrians shall cross only in 

accordance with the official traffic control devices pertaining to such 

crossing movements. 

§ 11.3. NON-CROSSWALK CROSSING

§11.3.10. APPLICATION

Between adjacent intersections controlled by traffic control signal 

devices or by police officers, pedestrians shall not cross the roadway at 

any place except in a crosswalk. 

§11.3.20. YIELD TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC

Each pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a 

marked crosswalk, or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, 

shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway. 

§11.3.30. PROPER CROSSING

No pedestrian shall cross a roadway at any place other than by a route 

at right angles to the curb or by the shortest route to the opposite curb, 

except in a crosswalk. 
§ 11.4. SIDEWALKS AND ROADWAYS

§11.4.10. STAY TO THE RIGHT

Whenever possible, pedestrians shall walk on the right half of the 

crosswalk. 

§11.4.20. MUST USE SIDEWALKS

Where sidewalks are provided, it shall be unlawful for any pedestrian 

to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway. 

§11.4.30. STAY TO LEFT OF ROADWAY

Where sidewalks are not provided, any pedestrian walking along and 

upon a street or highway shall, when practicable, walk only on the left 

side of the roadway or its shoulder-facing traffic, which may approach 

from the opposite direction.

§11.4.40. HITCHHIKING

No person shall stand in a roadway for the purpose of soliciting a ride 

from the driver of any vehicle. 

§11.4.50. MOVE-OVER LAW

Upon the approach of an authorized emergency vehicle, pedestrians 

shall yield right-of-way and immediately proceed to the nearest point 

of safety. 

CHAPTER 12

DEMONSTRATIONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

§ 12.1. DEMONSTRATION ACTIVITY

§12.1.10. DEFINITION

Demonstration activity is defined as any protest, rally, march, vigil, 

gathering, assembly, projecting of images or similar conduct engaged 

in for the purpose of expressing political, social, religious or other

similar ideas, views or concerns protected by the First Amendment of 

the United States Constitution. 

§12.1.20. APPLICABILITY

The provisions of this chapter shall be applicable to any one (1) person 

or group of persons engaged in demonstration activity on Capitol 

Grounds. The provisions of this chapter shall apply equally to all 

demonstrators, regardless of viewpoint.

§12.1.30. SPECIAL EVENTS

Certain events on Capitol Grounds are not considered 

“demonstrations” for the purposes of this chapter. They are authorized 

as follows:

(a) BAND CONCERTS. Concerts performed by bands that are in the 

service of the federal government, at times which will not 

interfere with Congress, as authorized by the Architect of the 

Capitol.31

(b) LOUISIANA AVENUE. Parades, processions or assemblages on 

that part of Louisiana Avenue located within Capitol Grounds. 

The Capitol Police Board grants the Mayor of the District of 

Columbia the authority to permit the use of Louisiana Avenue 

for these events.32

(c) TOUR GROUPS. A group organized for the purpose of 

sightseeing and visiting the Capitol.

(d) CEREMONIAL EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT. Any small-scale 

event such as a school band, musical presentation or military 

reenlistment ceremony. Any group wishing to engage in this 

type of activity must apply for and receive prior written approval 

from the Board. These events shall only be conducted in 

assigned areas and must comply with all restrictions, limitations 

and conditions as determined by the Board.

§ 12.2. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

§12.2.10. PERMISSIBLE DEMONSTRATION AREAS

31 40 U.S.C. § 5107 (“Concerts on Grounds”). See Appendix F. 32 40 U.S.C. § 5106(c) (“Authority of Mayor to Permit Use of Louisiana Avenue”). See Appendix F.
Demonstration activity is allowed in designated areas as indicated on 

the “United States Capitol Grounds Demonstration Areas Map,” as 

amended.33 

§12.2.20. PROHIBITED DEMONSTRATION AREAS

No person or group of any size may engage in demonstration activity 

on the steps of the United States Capitol, on the steps of any building 

on Capitol Grounds or in any area otherwise closed or restricted for 

official use. In addition, projecting of images on any building on 

Capitol Grounds shall not be permitted. Demonstration activity by 

Members of Congress is exempt from this section if: 

a. it is being done in his or her official capacity as a Member;

b. it is being organized or sponsored by a Member of Congress; and

c. the Member(s) is personally in attendance at the demonstration 

activity at all times.

The exemption will no longer apply to others at the demonstration 

activity if the organizing or sponsoring Member(s) departs the activity. 

The exemption will not apply when a Member of Congress merely 

advocates for demonstration activity organized or sponsored by others.

§ 12.3. GROUPS OF THIRTY OR LESS

§12.3.10. NO PERMIT REQUIRED

No person or group of thirty (30) or less persons shall be required to 

obtain a permit. 

§12.3.20. AVAILABILITY

Space for one (1) person or group of thirty (30) persons or less is 

available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the provisions 

of this chapter.

§12.3.30. PERMIT ENCOURAGED

One (1) person or group of thirty (30) persons or less that desires to 

secure a specific demonstration area is encouraged to file an 

application for a permit. A permit holder will be given priority over 

any person or group occupying a demonstration area not in possession 

of a permit. The Board may remove or relocate any person or group of 

thirty (30) persons or less not in possession of a permit to 

accommodate permitted demonstration activity or special event as 

authorized by §12.1.30. 

33 See Appendix G. Approved December 5, 2012.
§12.3.40. PROHIBITIONS

A person or group of thirty (30) persons or less shall not engage in the 

following:

(a) SEGMENTING FROM THE GROUP. A person or group of thirty

(30) persons or less may engage in demonstration activity 

without a permit provided that the demonstration activity is not 

merely a segment of the same group whose complement would 

consist of over (30) persons.

(b) INTERFERENCE. No person or group of thirty (30) persons or 

less shall engage in demonstration activity that audibly or 

physically interferes with the demonstration activity of another 

person or group. 

(c) DENSITY. No person or group of thirty (30) persons or less 

shall occupy an area in which the density exceeds 4.95 square 

feet per person, including props and equipment.

34 In no 

instance shall the per person density of any area exceed that set 

by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 

(d) SEVEN DAY LIMITATION. No person or group of thirty (30) 

persons or less shall engage in demonstration activity for a 

period that exceeds more than seven (7) consecutive days.

(e) CONTINUOUS DAILY DEMONSTRATION. No person or group of 

thirty (30) persons or less shall engage in demonstration 

activity having a duration of more than twenty-four (24) 

consecutive hours, including clean-up and the set-up and take 

down of props and equipment.35

§12.3.50. APPLICABILITY OF OTHER SECTIONS. 

With the exception of §12.4, any person or group of thirty (30) persons 

or less is required to adhere to the provisions of this chapter.

34 “Special Events Contingency Planning,” Federal Emergency Management Agency (Mar. 2005). 35 Community for Creative Non-Violence v. Carvino, et al., 660 F. Supp 744 (D.D.C. 1987); Community for Creative 

Non-Violence v. Kerrigan, et.al., 865 F.2d 382 (D.C. App. 1989). See Appendix H for all related case law.
§ 12.4. GROUPS OVER THIRTY

§12.4.10. PERMIT REQUIRED FOR GROUPS OF OVER THIRTY

No group of over thirty (30) persons shall engage in demonstration 

activity on Capitol Grounds except pursuant to the terms of a permit 

issued by the Capitol Police Board.

§12.4.20. PERMIT APPLICATIONS

(a) ADVANCE NOTICE. All applications for permits shall be 

submitted in writing to the Capitol Police Board.36 An 

application shall be submitted in writing so as to be received by 

the Capitol Police Board at least five (5) business days in 

advance of the proposed demonstration activity. 

(b) CONTENTS. Permit applicants shall provide the following:

1. Requested area of Capitol Grounds;

2. Date, time, duration, and nature of the 

demonstration activity;

3. Estimated number of participants;

4. Sponsoring person or organization;

5. Requested props and equipment; and,

6. Name, address, telephone number and signature of 

applicant.

(c) WAIVER. The Board may waive notice or reduce the number 

of days of advance notice if it determines that unforeseen or 

exceptional circumstances exist. 

36 The Special Events Division of the United States Capitol Police has been designated to receive and process 

applications. Applications can be obtained by calling (202) 224-8891 or visiting www.uscapitolpolice.gov.
§12.4.30. PROCESSING APPLICATIONS AND ISSUANCE OF PERMITS

(a) APPROVAL. The Capitol Police Board shall process 

applications in order of their receipt. Properly completed 

applications will be given priority over applications that are 

defective.

(b) ISSUANCE. The Board shall issue a permit authorizing 

peaceable and orderly demonstration activity upon proper and 

timely application.

(c) CONTENTS. Each permit shall clearly identify:

1. The sponsoring person and organization;

2. The area on Capitol Grounds where the permitted 

demonstration activity is to take place;

3. The date, time and duration of the demonstration 

activity; 

4. The nature of the event and detailed description of 

the activity; and,

5. The number of participants. 

(d) TACIT APPROVAL. Should the Board fail to act on a properly 

completed and timely filed application within twenty-four (24) 

hours prior to the date of the proposed demonstration activity, 

such application shall be deemed approved by the Board. 

§12.4.40. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

In addition to any additional terms as set forth in the permit, no permit 

shall be issued that authorizes the following:

(a) AREA. No permit shall authorize a group to demonstrate in 

more than one (1) area per event simultaneously. 

(b) DENSITY. No permit shall be issued that would exceed a 

density of five (5) square feet per person in the requested 

demonstration area, including props and equipment.

(c) SEVEN DAY LIMITATION. No permit shall be issued for a period 

of more than seven (7) consecutive days.

(d) CONTINUOUS DAILY DEMONSTRATION PROHIBITED. No permit 

shall authorize demonstration activity having a duration of 

more than twenty-four (24) consecutive hours, including cleanup and the set up and take down of props and equipment.37

37 Community for Creative Non-Violence v. Kerrigan, et.al., 660 F. Supp 744 (D.D.C. 1987); 865 F.2d 382 (D.C. App. 

1989). See Appendix H for all related case law.
§12.4.50. GROUPS TO REMAIN IN ASSIGNED AREAS

All groups are required to remain in their assigned demonstration areas 

throughout the course of the demonstration activity. The same group 

may not hold a permit to more than one demonstration area at the same 

time.

§12.4.60. REVOCATION FOR NON-COMPLIANCE OR FOR CAUSE. 

In any case in which the terms of the permit are violated, such permit

may be revoked by the Capitol Police Board. The Board is authorized 

to revoke a permit if it determines that continuation of demonstration 

activity is likely to result in bodily harm or death to an individual, 

damage to or destruction of any real or personal property or that a 

breach of the peace is imminent and good order cannot otherwise be 

maintained.

§ 12.5. PROPS AND EQUIPMENT

The following provisions apply to all persons or groups of persons bringing props and 

equipment onto Capitol Grounds. 

§12.5.10. GENERAL

(a) DEFINITION. Props and equipment include items such as 

stands, lecterns, sound amplification equipment, chairs, tables, 

portable sanitary facilities, press and news facilities or other 

similar items that are reasonably necessary as an integral part 

of demonstration activity. 

(b) HEIGHT RESTRICTION. No single prop, piece of equipment or 

combination thereof may exceed fifteen (15) feet in height. 

(c) STAGES, RISERS AND PLATFORMS. No stage, riser or platform 

may exceed two (2) feet in height. 

(d) UNATTENDED PROPS AND EQUIPMENT. No prop or piece of 

equipment shall be left unattended while on Capitol Grounds.

(e) REMOVAL. All props and equipment must be capable of 

immediate removal. 

(f) TWENTY FOUR HOUR LIMITATION. Props and equipment must 

be removed from Capitol Grounds at least once every 

consecutive twenty-four (24) hour period.

38

(g) CONCLUSION. Demonstration activity is not considered 

concluded until all props and equipment are removed from 

Capitol Grounds within the permitted time.

38 Id. 
§12.5.20. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PERMIT APPLICANTS

(a) All permit applicants are required to list props and equipment 

in their application. 

(b) Permit applicants must provide a description and the intended 

use of each such item in the permit application. 

(c) Any stage, riser or platform must be clearly identified in the 

permit application and receive Board authorization prior to use. 

(d) Permit holders are subject to any additional requirements 

pertaining to props and equipment as determined by the Board 

and set forth in the permit. 

§ 12.6. SIGNS, BANNERS AND PLACARDS

Signs, banners and placards are permissible on Capitol Grounds provided the supports 

for these items have dull ends, do not exceed 3⁄4 of an inch at their widest point and 

cannot in any way be construed as a weapon. No nails, screws or bolt-type fastening 

devices may be protruding from the supports.

§ 12.7. TEMPORARY STRUCTURES

No temporary structure of any kind may be erected on Capitol Grounds. Tents, 

cabanas, canopies and all other types of covered or enclosed structures are expressly 

prohibited.

39 No object shall be tied, fastened or suspended to any tree, pole or other 

landscape or architectural feature on Capitol Grounds.

§ 12.8. AMPLIFICATION AND OTHER NOISE DISTURBANCES

§12.8.10. AMPLIFICATION EQUIPMENT

Amplification equipment is not permitted on the Lower West Front 

Terrace or any other location on Capitol Grounds as determined by the 

Board.

§12.8.20. SOUND PROJECTION

All sound amplification equipment must be projected away from the 

Capitol and all other Congressional office buildings.

§12.8.30. UNAMPLIFIED DISTURBANCES

No individual may utter loud, threatening or abusive language or 

engage in disorderly or disruptive conduct at any place on Capitol 

Grounds that interferes with any business being conducted in the 

Capitol or in any of the office building on Capitol Grounds at any 

time, including during periods of recess. 

39 See also §16.6 (“Camping”).
§ 12.9. ROAD RACES

§12.9.10. DEFINITION

A road race is any type of sponsored running or cycling event, such as 

a marathon or triathlon. 

§12.9.20. PERMIT REQUIRED FROM NEIGHBORING AGENCY

No road race will be allowed to traverse Capitol Grounds when the 

route includes District of Columbia or National Park Service land 

unless a permit from the Metropolitan Police and National Park 

Service has been issued. 

§12.9.30. SUNDAYS 

Road races are permitted on Sundays only. 

§12.9.40. NO RE-TRACING ON CAPITOL GROUNDS

Road races shall only pass through Capitol Grounds once; there will be 

no re-tracing of the route on Capitol Grounds. 

§12.9.50. CAPITOL SQUARE

A road race may not occupy more than two (2) streets that comprise 

Capitol Square. 

§12.9.60. AUTHORIZED ROUTE

Race coordinators must submit documentation that lays out the route 

of the race. Race participants must remain on the authorized route 

throughout the course of the race. 

§ 12.10. MARCHES

§12.10.10. PRIOR PERMIT REQUIRED

No march will be authorized without an existing permit from both the 

Metropolitan Police Department and the National Park Service.

§12.10.20. AUTHORIZED ROUTE

Participants must submit documentation that lays out the route and 

remain on the authorized route throughout the march. Unless 

otherwise authorized by the Board, all marchers are to remain on 

sidewalks.
§ 12.11. DAMAGE TO CAPITOL GROUNDS 

§12.11.10. RESTORATION OF GROUNDS

Any person or group of persons that engages in demonstration activity 

on Capitol Grounds shall restore the grounds to same condition that 

existed prior to that demonstration activity.

§ 12.12. PERSONAL ACTIVITIES

Wedding ceremonies, graduation ceremonies and other events of a personal nature are 

not permitted on Capitol Grounds.

§ 12.13. ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS

The Board reserves the right to impose additional reasonable time, place and manner 

restrictions on any demonstration activity consistent with this chapter in the interest 

of safety and in order to minimize the obstruction or impediment of vehicular and 

pedestrian traffic through or within the Capitol Grounds. 

CHAPTER 13

BICYCLES

§ 13.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§13.1.10. APPLICATION

This chapter shall apply to any bicycle that is parked or being operated 

on Capitol Grounds. 

§13.1.20. BICYCLE DEFINED

A bicycle is a device which is propelled solely by human power; 

which is designed to be ridden by one (1) or more persons; which has a 

saddle or seat for each person that the device is designed and equipped 

to carry; which has a tandem arrangement of two (2) wheels (or is a 

device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two 

front or rear wheels); and which has either one wheel at least twenty 

inches (20 in.) in diameter or is designed to be ridden on a roadway. 

This shall not include any device equipped with a motor or engine 

capable of propelling such device either exclusively or in combination 

with human power, whether or not such motor or engine is in actual 

operation.

§ 13.2. HIGHWAYS AND SIDEWALKS

§13.2.10. RIDING ON SIDEWALKS 

There shall be no prohibition against any person riding a bicycle on a 

sidewalk so long as that person does not create a hazard.

§13.2.20. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES

No person shall operate a bicycle except in obedience to the 

instructions of official traffic control signals, signs, and other control 

devices applicable to vehicles, unless otherwise directed by a police 

officer or other person authorized to control and direct traffic. 

§13.2.30. DUTIES OF BICYCLE OPERATORS

Every person who rides a bicycle on a highway shall have the same 

duties as any other vehicle operator under these regulations, except as 

otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, and except for those 

duties imposed by these regulations which, by their nature or wording, 

can have no reasonable application to a bicycle operator. 
§ 13.3. SAFE RIDING

§13.3.10. SAFE OPERATION

A person shall operate a bicycle in a safe and non-hazardous manner 

so as not to endanger himself or herself or any other person. 

§13.3.20 SEAT REQUIRED

No person shall operate or ride a bicycle other than upon or astride a 

regular seat attached to the bicycle. 

§13.3.30 EXTRA RIDERS

No person shall operate or ride a bicycle with more persons on it at 

any one time than the bicycle is equipped to carry. 

§13.3.40. CARRYING ARTICLES

No person shall operate or ride a bicycle while carrying any package, 

bundle, or article which prevents the operator from keeping at least 

one hand on the handle bars. 

§13.3.50. WARNING DEVICE

No person operating a bicycle shall sound any warning device at any 

intersection so as to interfere with the obedience to the instructions of 

official traffic control signals or to the directions of a police officer. 

§13.3.60. NO CLINGING 

No person riding upon a bicycle shall attach himself, herself or the 

device upon which he or she is riding, to another bicycle, Segway, 

play vehicle or any other vehicle.

§13.3.70. RIDING ABREAST

Persons riding upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast 

except on paths or part of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of 

bicycles. Persons riding two abreast shall not impeded the normal and 

reasonable movement of traffic and, on a lane roadway, shall ride 

within a single lane. 

§13.3.80. OVERTAKING AND PASSING

(a) A person operating a bicycle may overtake and pass another 

vehicle only under conditions which permit the movement to 

be made with safety.

(b) A person operating a bicycle may overtake and pass other 

vehicles on the left or right side, staying in the same lane as the 

overtaken vehicle, or changing to a different lane, or riding off 

the roadway, as necessary to pass with safety.

(c) If a lane is partially occupied by vehicles that are stopped, 

standing, or parked in that lane, a person operating a bicycle 

may ride in that or in the next adjacent lane used by vehicles 

proceeding in the same direction. 

§13.3.90. RIDING INTO PATH OF VEHICLE 

No bicyclist shall suddenly leave a sidewalk and ride into the path of a 

vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield. 
§ 13.4. RIGHT-OF-WAY

§13.4.10. YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS ON SIDEWALK

Any person propelling a bicycle upon a sidewalk shall yield the rightof-way to pedestrians and shall travel at a speed no greater than the 

posted speed limit of the adjacent roadway provided that such speed is 

safe for the conditions then existing on the sidewalk. 

§13.4.20. YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS IN CROSSWALK

A person propelling a bicycle while crossing a roadway in a crosswalk 

shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the 

same circumstances, except that the bicyclist must yield to pedestrians

on the sidewalk or crosswalk. 

§13.4.30. EMERGING AND ENTERING

The operator of a bicycle emerging from or entering an alley, 

driveway, or building shall yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians 

upon approach to the sidewalk or the sidewalk area extending across 

any alleyway. Upon entering the roadway, the bicyclist shall yield the 

right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on said roadway to the extent 

necessary to safely enter the flow of traffic. 

§ 13.5. BICYCLE SAFETY EQUIPMENT

§13.5.10. BICYCLE BRAKE

Each bicycle shall be equipped with a brake which enables the 

operator to cause the braked wheels to skid on dry, level, clean 

pavement. A fixed gear bicycle is not required to have a separate 

brake, but an operator of a fixed gear bicycle shall be able to stop the 

bicycle using the pedals. 

§13.5.20. FRONT LAMP ON BICYCLE

Each bicycle, when in use at night, shall be equipped with a lamp on 

the front which shall emit a steady or flashing white light visible from 

a distance of at least five hundred feet (500 ft.) to the front and with a 

red reflector on the rear which shall be visible from all distances from 

fifty feet (50 ft.) to three hundred feet (300 ft.) to the rear when 

directly in front of upper beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle. 

§13.5.30. REAR LAMP ON BICYCLE

A lamp emitting a steady or flashing red light visible from a distance 

of five hundred feet (500 ft.) to the rear may be used in lieu of the red 

reflector. 
§13.5.40. BODY LAMP ON BICYCLE OPERATORS

In place of the requirements of §13.5.20, a lamp may be worn on the 

body of an operator; it may be readily seen from the distances set forth 

in that subsection.

§13.5.60. PROHIBITION ON SIRENS

A bicycle shall not be equipped with, nor shall any bicycle rider use, a 

siren of any kind. 

§ 13.6. PARKING AND SECURING BICYCLES

§13.6.10. PERMISSIBLE BICYCLE PARKING

No person shall park his bicycle on Capitol Grounds in any place other 

than a bicycle rack or other area designated specifically for the parking 

of bicycles.

§13.6.20. PARKED BICYCLES

Any bicycle parked in a parking garage or secured designated staff 

parking lot must have a valid permit issued by the Senate Committee 

on Rules and Administration or the Committee on House 

Administration. Any bicycle parked in any other public parking area, 

including a bicycle rack, does not need to have a permit.

§13.6.30. TWENTY-FOUR HOUR TIME LIMITATION

A person may secure a bicycle in accordance with the provisions of 

this chapter for a period of not more than twenty-four (24) consecutive 

hours, by means of a lock or similar device, in accordance with the 

requirements of this chapter. Any bicycle secured in excess of twentyfour (24) consecutive hours may be seized by the U.S. Capitol Police. 

§13.6.40. SECURED BICYCLE CANNOT IMPEDE TRAFFIC

A person may secure a bicycle in accordance with the provisions of 

this chapter by means of a lock or similar device as long as securing 

the bicycle does not obstruct or unduly impede traffic or pedestrian 

movement and as long as securing bicycles has not been forbidden by 

any signage or notice.
§13.6.50. SECURING BICYCLES PROHIBITED IN CERTAIN AREAS

No person shall secure a bicycle to any of the following publiclyowned facilities:

(a) Fire hydrants;

(b) Police and fire call boxes;

(c) Electric traffic signal poles;

(d) Fences;

(e) Stanchion, bollard or any publicly-owned pole or post used as 

support;

(f) Tree, shrub or plant;

(g) Bench, fountain, fixture or object temporarily or permanently 

attached or appended to any structure or building;

§13.6.60. BUILDINGS AND IMPROVED AREAS

No person shall park a bicycle:

(a) Upon a highway other than the roadway against the curb; or

(b) Upon a sidewalk, against a building or any other fixture or 

improved area not specifically designated by this chapter.

§13.6.70. TAMPERING PROHIBITED

No person shall tamper with any bicycle that has been locked, placed 

in a bicycle rack or otherwise secured. 

CHAPTER 14

PEDICABS

§ 14.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§14.1.10. APPLICATION

This chapter shall apply to any pedicab that is parked, standing or 

being operated on Capitol Grounds. 

§14.1.20. PEDICAB DEFINED

A bicycle with two (2) rear wheels and one (1) front wheel that is 

designed to be ridden by one (1) or more persons, that transports, or is 

capable of transporting, passengers on seats attached to the bicycle, 

and that is used for transporting passengers for hire.

§ 14.2. HIGHWAYS AND SIDEWALKS

§14.2.20. PUBLIC ROADS

Pedicabs shall only be operated only on public streets. 

§14.2.20. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES

Unless otherwise directed by a police officer, no person shall operate a 

pedicab except in obedience to the instructions of official traffic 

control signals, signs, and other control devices applicable to vehicles. 

§14.2.30. DUTIES OF PEDICAB OPERATORS

Every person who rides a pedicab on a highway shall have the same 

duties as any other vehicle operator under these regulations, except as 

otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, and except for those 

duties imposed by these regulations which, by their nature or wording, 

can have no reasonable application to a pedicab operator.
§ 14.3. SAFE RIDING

§14.3.10. APPLICABILITY OF BICYCLE REGULATIONS

Pedicabs shall be operated in accordance with the general safety 

requirements set forth in §13.3 and §13.4.40.

40

§14.3.20. SAFE OPERATION

Each pedicab shall be operated in accordance with the following 

provisions:

(a) PASSENGER LIMIT. The maximum number of passengers a 

pedicab may transport shall not exceed the number of available 

seats.

(b) PASSENGERS MUST BE SEATED. All passengers shall be seated 

while the pedicab is in motion.

(c) SEATBELTS. All passengers shall have a seatbelt securely 

fastened while the pedicab is in motion.

(d) 30 MPH SPEED LIMIT. A pedicab shall not be operated on a 

roadway with a posted speed limit of more than thirty miles per 

hour (30 mph).

(e) SIDEWALKS. A pedicab may not be operated or parked on a 

sidewalk.

(f) LOADING. Pedicab passengers shall be loaded and off-loaded 

while the pedicab is stopped.

(g) LOADING. No pedicab operator shall stop to load or unload 

passengers on the traffic side of the street, while occupying any 

intersection or crosswalk, or in such a manner as to unduly 

interfere with the orderly flow of traffic. All pedicab operators 

shall pull as close to the curb or edge of the roadway as 

possible to take on or discharge passengers.

(h) PARKING. A pedicab shall not be parked in any restricted 

zones identified for other vehicles, including, but not limited 

to, parking meter zones, residential permit parking zones, valet 

parking zones, bus zones, taxicab zones, and sightseeing zones.

(i) SECURING. A pedicab shall not be tied, cabled, or otherwise 

attached to a parking meter, street light pole, or other public 

space asset.

40 §13.3: (“Safe Riding”); §13.4.40 (“Emerging and Entering”).
(j) HEADLAMPS. At any time from one half (1/2) hour after sunset 

to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise, and at any other time 

when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric 

conditions, persons and vehicles on the highway are not clearly 

discernible at a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.) ahead, a 

pedicab shall be operated with a headlamp of sufficient 

intensity to reveal a person or a vehicle three hundred feet (300 

ft.).

(k) TAIL LAMPS. At any time from one half (1/2) hour after sunset 

to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise, and at any other time 

when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric 

conditions, persons and vehicles on the highway are not clearly 

discernible at a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.) ahead, a 

pedicab shall be operated with tail lamps capable of being seen 

from a distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.). 

§14.3.30. DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED

No one shall operate or be in control of a pedicab while the person’s 

alcohol concentration is eight hundredths of a gram (0.08 g.) or more 

either per one hundred milliliters (100 ml.) of blood or per two 

hundred and ten liters (210 L.) of breath or is one tenth of a gram (0.10 

g.) or more per one hundred milliliters (100 ml) of urine, or while 

under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug or any 

combination thereof, or while the ability to operate a vehicle is 

impaired by the consumption of intoxicating liquor.
§ 14.4. SAFETY EQUIPMENT

§14.4.10. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Each pedicab shall meet the following safety requirements:

(a) WIDTH. The maximum width of the pedicab shall be fifty-five 

inches (55 in.);

(b) LENGTH. The maximum length of the pedicab shall be ten feet 

(10 ft.);

(c) EQUIPMENT. The pedicab shall be equipped with:

1. Seatbelts. Passenger seat belts for no more than 

three (3) passengers (either one (1) seat belt for 

each passenger or one (1) seat belt that covers all 

passengers);

2. Brakes. Hydraulic or mechanical disc or drum 

brakes, which shall be unaffected by rain or wet 

conditions;

3. Head Lamps. At least one (1) and no more than two 

(2) battery-operated head lamps capable of 

projecting a beam of white light for a distance of 

three hundred feet (300 ft.) in front of the pedicab, 

under normal atmospheric conditions at the times 

that use of the head lamp is required; 

4. Tail Lamps. Battery-operated tail lamps mounted 

on the rear of the pedicab, which, when operated, 

shall emit a red beam of light visible from a 

distance of five hundred feet (500 ft.) to the rear, 

under normal atmospheric conditions at the times 

that use of the head lamp is required; 

5. Turning Lights. Turn lights;

6. Audible Signal. A bell or other device capable of 

giving a signal audible for a distance of at least one 

hundred feet (100 ft.); and,

7. Reflectors. Reflectors on the spokes of the wheels 

of the pedicab.

(d) REFLEXIVE TAPE. Reflective tape that meets the following 

requirements shall be affixed on the side and back of the 

pedicab:

1. The tape shall be at least two inches (2 in.) wide;

2. The tape shall be at least twelve inches (12 in.) 

long; and 

3. There shall be at least two (2) pieces of tape on each 

side and on the back of the pedicab. 
CHAPTER 15

LOW-SPEED VEHICLES 

§ 15.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§15.1.10. APPLICATION

This chapter shall apply to any low-speed vehicle that is parked or 

being operated on Capitol Grounds. 

§15.1.20. LOW-SPEED VEHICLE DEFINED

Low-speed vehicles consist of, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) MOTORIZED BICYCLE: Any motor vehicle having either a 

tandem arrangement of two wheels equipped with tires which 

are sixteen inches (16 in.) or more in diameter or a tricyclic 

arrangement of three (3) wheels equipped with tires which are 

sixteen inches (16 in.) or more in diameter, having a seat or 

saddle for the use of the operator, having an automatic 

transmission, and having a motor or engine which produces not 

more than one and one-half (1.5) brake horsepower (S.A.E. 

rating), has a piston displacement of not more than fifty cubic 

centimeters (50 cc), and is capable of moving the vehicle at a 

maximum speed of not more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 

mph) on level ground when propelled exclusively by such 

motor or engine.

(b) MOPED: A motorcycle or motorized bicycle equipped with 

functional pedals.

(c) MOTOR-DRIVEN CYCLE: Any motorcycle having a motor or 

engine which produces five (5.0) brake horsepower (S.A.E. 

rating) or less.

(d) PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICE: A motorized propulsion device, 

designed to transport only one person or a self-balancing, two 

non-tandem wheeled device, designed to transport only one 

person with an electric propulsion system, but excluding a 

battery-operated wheelchair or any “power driven mobility 

device.”41

(e) SEGWAY: A Personal Mobility Device.

(f) SIMILAR MOTORIZED DEVICES. Any other vehicle similar to 

those listed above that does not otherwise fall within Chapter 

13 or Chapter 14.42

§15.1.40 TAMPERING PROHIBITED

No person shall tamper with any low-speed vehicle that has been 

locked, placed in a bicycle rack or otherwise secured. 

41 As defined by 28 C.F.R. § 35.104 (2011).

42 Chapter 13 (“Bicycles”); Chapter 14 (“Pedicabs”).
§ 15.2. GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

§15.2.10. REASONABLE AND PRUDENT SPEED

No rider shall ride a low-speed vehicle at a speed in excess of any 

posted limited or at a speed which is greater than is reasonable and 

prudent under conditions then existing.

§15.2.20. SAFE OPERATION

A person shall operate a low-speed vehicle in a safe and nonhazardous manner so as not to endanger himself or herself or any other 

person. 

§13.2.30. OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES

No person shall operate a low-speed vehicle except in obedience to the 

instructions of official traffic control signals, signs, and other control 

devices applicable to vehicles, unless otherwise directed by a police 

officer or other person authorized to control and direct traffic. 

§15.2.40. DUTIES OF LOW-SPEED VEHICLE OPERATORS

Every person who propels a low-speed vehicle on highway shall have 

the same duties as any other vehicle operator under these regulations, 

except as otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, and except for 

those duties imposed by these regulations which, by their nature or 

wording, can have no reasonable application to an operator of a lowspeed vehicle.

§ 15.3. SEGWAYS

§15.3.10. REGISTRATION

No Segway shall be operated on Capitol Grounds unless it has been 

validly registered in the District or other jurisdiction and bears readily 

visible evidence of being registered.43

§15.3.20. AGE

No person shall operate a Segway if they are under sixteen (16) years 

of age.

§15.3.30. MAXIMUM SPEED LIMIT

Notwithstanding the limitations set forth in §15.3.10, no person shall 

operate a Segway at a speed in excess of ten (10) miles per hour.

§15.3.40. PACKAGES

No person shall operate a Segway if they are carrying a package, 

bundle or other article that hinders the person from keeping both hands 

on the handlebars.

§15.3.50. HEADPHONES

No person shall operate a Segway on Capitol Grounds while the 

person is wearing a headset, headphone or earphone, unless the device 

is being uses to improve the hearing of a person with a hearing 

impairment or covers or is inserted in one ear only.

43 Operator permits are not required for Segways. See 18 DCMR § 1200.4
§15.3.70. RIDING ON SIDEWALKS

There shall be no prohibition against any person riding a Segway on a 

sidewalk, so long as the rider does not create a hazard.

§15.3.80. YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS ON SIDEWALK

Any person riding a Segway upon a sidewalk shall yield the right-ofway to pedestrians and shall travel at a speed no greater than the 

posted speed limit of the adjacent roadway provided that such speed is 

safe for the conditions then existing on the sidewalk.

§15.3.90. YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS IN CROSSWALK

A person operating Segway while crossing a roadway in a crosswalk 

shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the 

same circumstances, except that the Segway operator must yield to 

pedestrians on the sidewalk or crosswalk. 

§15.3.100. EMERGING AND ENTERING

The operator of a Segway emerging from or entering an alley, 

driveway, or building shall yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians 

upon approach to the sidewalk or the sidewalk area extending across 

any alleyway. Upon entering the roadway, the Segway operator shall 

yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on said roadway to 

the extent necessary to safely enter the flow of traffic. 

§ 15.4. MOTORIZED BICYCLES

§15.4.10. MINIMUM AGE 

No motorized bicycle shall be operated upon any public space on 

Capitol Grounds by any person who is less than sixteen (16) years old. 

§15.4.20. SIDEWALKS

No person shall operate a motorized bicycle on any sidewalk, path or 

bicycle route on Capitol Grounds.

§15.4.30. ROADWAY

A motorized bicycle may be operated on any part of a roadway 

designated for the use of bicycles.

§15.4.40. SEAT REQUIRED

No person shall operate or ride a motorized bicycle other than upon or 

astride a regular seat attached to the motorized bicycle. 

§15.4.50. EXTRA RIDERS

No person shall operate or ride a motorized bicycle with more persons 

on it at any one time than the motorized bicycle is equipped to carry. 

§15.4.60. CARRYING ARTICLES

No person shall operate or ride a motorized bicycle while carrying any 

package, bundle, or article which prevents the operator from keeping 

at least one hand on the handle bars. 
§15.4.70. WARNING DEVICE

No person operating a motorized bicycle shall sound any warning 

device at any intersection so as to interfere with the obedience to the 

instructions of official traffic control signals or to the directions of a 

police officer. 

§15.4.80. NO CLINGING 

No person riding upon a motorized bicycle shall attach himself, herself 

or the device upon which he or she is riding, to another bicycle, lowspeed vehicle or play vehicle or any other vehicle.

§15.4.90. RIDING ABREAST

Persons riding upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast 

except on paths or part of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of 

bicycles. Persons riding two abreast shall not impede the normal and 

reasonable movement of traffic and, on a lane roadway, shall ride 

within a single lane. 

§15.4.100. YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS IN CROSSWALK

A person operating a motorized bicycle while crossing a roadway in a 

crosswalk shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian 

under the same circumstances, except that they must yield to 

pedestrians on the sidewalk or crosswalk. 

§15.4.120. EMERGING AND ENTERING

The operator of a motorized bicycle emerging from or entering an 

alley, driveway, or building shall yield the right-of-way to all 

pedestrians upon approach to the sidewalk or the sidewalk area 

extending across any alleyway. Upon entering the roadway, the 

operator shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on 

said roadway to the extent necessary to safely enter the flow of traffic. 

§15.4.130. OVERTAKING AND PASSING

(a) A person operating a motorized bicycle may overtake and pass 

another vehicle only under conditions which permit the 

movement to be made with safety.

(b) A person operating a motorized bicycle may overtake and pass 

other vehicles on the left or right side, staying in the same lane 

as the overtaken vehicle, or changing to a different lane, or 

riding off the roadway, as necessary to pass with safety.

(c) If a lane is partially occupied by vehicles that are stopped, 

standing, or parked in that lane, a person operating a motorized 

bicycle may ride in that or in the next adjacent lane used by 

vehicles proceeding in the same direction. 
§ 15.5. ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES AND DIRTBIKES

§15.5.10. PROHIBITED

No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or dirt bike on Capitol 

Grounds at any time.

§15.5.20. PENALTIES

Any individual violating this section shall upon conviction be fined not 

more than $1,000 or imprisoned not more than 30 days, or both.44 

§ 15.6 PARKING AND SECURING LOW-SPEED VEHICLE ON PUBLIC SPACE 

§15.6.10. BUILDINGS AND IMPROVED AREAS

No person shall park a low-speed vehicle:

(a) Upon a highway other than the roadway against the curb; or

(b) Upon a sidewalk, against a building or any other fixture or 

improved area not specifically designated by these regulations.

44 This offense is prosecuted in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. 

CHAPTER 16

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS WITHIN 

CAPITOL GROUNDS

§ 16.1. LEGAL DEFINITION OF CAPITOL GROUNDS

The boundaries of Capitol Grounds are set forth in 40 USC § 5102.

45

§ 16.2. PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION 

§16.2.10. RESTRICTION ON PUBLIC USE

Public travel in and occupancy of Capitol Grounds is restricted to the 

roads, walks and places specifically prepared for that purpose.

46

§16.2.20. PROPERTY DAMAGE

No person shall use any portion of the Capitol Grounds as a 

playground or in any manner that may potentially cause destruction or 

injury to persons or property.47 

§16.2.30. CLIMBING AND SWINGING

Climbing, jumping, hanging or swinging onto or into any landscape or 

architectural feature on Capitol Grounds is prohibited. 48 

§16.2.40. STANDING ON SKYLIGHTS AND ENTRY INTO WORK AREAS

Standing on or entrance onto any skylight, air grate, generator, light 

pole, elevator tower or any other such object or area is prohibited.

49

§16.2.50. SWIMMING AND ENTRY INTO POOLS

No person shall swim, wade or enter into any fountain, pool, or other 

body of water on Capitol Grounds.

45 See Appendix I. 46 See also 40 U.S.C. § 5103. Restrictions on public use of Unites States Capitol Grounds:

“Public travel in, and occupancy of, the Unites States Capitol Grounds is restricted to the roads, walks, 

and places prepared for that purpose.” See Appendix F. 47 See also 2 U.S.C. § 1963:

“It shall be the duty of the Capitol police on and after April 29, 1876, to prevent any portion of the Capitol 

Grounds and terraces from being used as playgrounds or otherwise, so far as may be necessary to protect 

the public property, turf and grass from destruction or injury.” 48 See also 2 USC § 5104(d):

“A person may not step in or climb on, remove, or in any way injure any statute, seat, wall, fountain, or 

other erection or architectural feature, or any tree, shrub, plant or turf in the Grounds.” See Appendix F. 49 As added by Board Order 08.03 “Concerning the Reopening of the East Front and Amendments to the Traffic and 

Motor Vehicle Regulations for the United States Capitol Grounds.” November 21, 2008.
§16.2.60. SKATING AND PLAY VEHICLES

No person shall skate-board, roller-skate, roller-blade or ice-skate on 

Capitol Grounds. The use of scooters, kiddie cars, tricycles, wagons 

or any similar device is prohibited on Capitol Grounds.

§16.2.70. GAME-PLAYING 

No person shall kick, toss, throw or strike any ball, disc or object of 

any material, shape or size onto or into any area within Capitol 

Grounds.

§16.2.80. KITE-FLYING

Kite-flying is prohibited on Capitol Grounds.

§16.2.90. MODEL ROCKETS AND BOATS

The use of model rockets, remote or manually-controlled model 

gliders, model airplanes or unmanned aircrafts, model boats and model 

cars is prohibited on Capitol Grounds. 

§16.3. CROWD CONTROL

§16.3.10. ESTABLISHING A POLICE LINE

When fires, accidents, wrecks, explosions, parades or other occasion 

causes or may cause persons to collect on any street, roadway, pathway on 

Capitol Grounds, the Board may establish an area or zone necessary for 

the purpose of affording clearing for the following:

(a) Operation of fireman or policeman,

(b) The passage of a parade,

(c) The movement of traffic,

(d) The exclusion of the public from the vicinity of a riot, 

disorderly gathering, accident, wreck, explosion or other 

emergency; and

(e) The protection of persons and property.

§16.3.20. OBEY AN ORDER 

Each person present at the scene of an emergency occasion shall comply 

with any necessary order or instruction of any police officer. 

§16.3.30. UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY 

No person shall enter the emergency area or zone unless duly authorized 

by the person in command of the emergency occasion. 

§16.3.40. BLOCKING AND OBSTRUCTING ROADWAYS

It is forbidden to occupy the roads on Capitol Grounds in a manner that 

obstructs or hinders their proper use.50

50 See also 40 U.S.C. § 5104(b) (“Obstruction of Roads”). See Appendix F.
§ 16.4. SLEEPING OR LYING DOWN 

§16.4.10. PAVED OR IMPROVED AREAS

No person shall sleep or lie down on the paved or improved portions 

of Capitol Buildings and Grounds (such as streets, roads, sidewalks, 

walkways, steps, curbs, gutters, doorways, alcoves, walls or benches) 

at any time.

§16.4.20. UNPAVED AND GRASSY AREAS

No person shall sleep or lie down on any unpaved or unimproved 

grassy portion of the Grounds from one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to 

one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise.

§ 16.5. WINTER ACTIVITIES

§16.5.10. SNOWMOBILING

Except in the case of a street closed by the Capitol Police Board to 

motor vehicular traffic due to conditions of ice or snow, no person 

shall drive or ride on a snowmobile on any such area within Capitol 

Grounds.

§16.5.20. SLEDDING

No person shall coast or slide a sled within Capitol Grounds. 

§16.5.30. SKIING

With the exception of the use of cross-country skis or snowshoes as a 

means for transportation, no person shall ski on any area within 

Capitol Grounds. 
§16.6. CAMPING 

§16.6.10. CAMPING DEFINED

Any activity such as sleeping, making preparations to sleep, cooking 

or the making of any fire, digging, earth-breaking or any other activity 

that reasonably appears, in light of all circumstances, that the 

participants are using the area as a living accommodation regardless of 

the intent of the participants or the nature of any other activities in 

which they may also be engaging, including demonstration activity. 51 

§16.6.20. CAMPING PROHIBITED

No person shall use or occupy any part of Capitol Grounds for 

camping or for living accommodations. 

§16.6.30. STORAGE OF PERSONAL BELONGINGS

No person shall set up, place or store any type of tent, sleeping bag, 

bedroll, bedding, equipment or shelter of any kind at any time for any 

purpose on Capitol Grounds.

§ 16.7. DRIVING INTO RESTRICTED AREAS

§16.7.10. SIDEWALK AND NON-ROADWAY AREAS

The driver of a vehicle shall not drive within or across any sidewalk 

area, except at a permanent or temporary driveway. No vehicle shall 

be operated on or across any part of the Capitol Grounds not prepared 

and designated for vehicular traffic.

§16.7.20. EAST FRONT PLAZA

The center section of the East Front Plaza shall be a non-roadway

restricted to emergency or authorized official government vehicles.

52

51 Clark v. Community for Creative Non-Violence, 468 U.S. 288 (1984). See Appendix H for all related case law.

52 As added by Board Order 08.05 “Amendments to the Traffic and Motor Vehicle Regulations for the East Front 

Plaza of the United States Capitol Grounds” (December 5th 2008). 
§ 16.8. ANIMALS WITHIN CAPITOL GROUNDS

§16.8.10. NON-DOMESTICATED ANIMALS

No person shall drive, lead, herd, ride, release or conduct any sheep, 

swine, cattle, horse, mule, goat, elephant, duck, goose, fowl or any 

other non-domesticated animal on Capitol Grounds. This section does 

not apply to authorized law enforcement or military horses or during 

an official function of the U.S. Congress.

§16.8.20. LEASH LAW

No person shall bring a domesticated animal onto Capitol Grounds 

unless the animal is firmly secured by a leash not exceeding four (4) 

feet in length. 

§ 16.9. METAL DETECTORS

With the exception of equipment officially authorized by the Board, no person may 

use or possess a mineral or metal detector, magnetometer or other metal detecting 

device on Capitol Grounds.

§ 16.10. OPEN FLAMES, GAS GENERATORS AND OTHER INCENDIARY DEVICES

§16.10.10. OPEN FLAMES

Unless exempted by the Board, no person shall use or display any 

open flame; all candles, torches, lanterns, lamps or other similar items 

are prohibited. 

§16.10.20. INCENDIARY DEVICE 

With the exception of household lighters and ordinary matches, no 

item, substance or material capable of igniting another material is 

permitted on Capitol Grounds.53

§16.10.30. GAS GENERATORS 

Gas generators are only permitted in areas as specified by the Board; 

all generators must be fueled and refueled off of Capitol Grounds.

53 See Appendix J for the Police Board Regulations Pertaining to Firearms, Explosives, Incendiary Devices and Other 

Dangerous Weapons (October 31, 1967); 40 U.S.C. § 5104(e).
§ 16.11. RESTRICTED VEHICLES

§16.11.10. COMMERCIAL AND AGRICULTURAL VEHICLES

No person shall operate any commercial, recreational, agricultural, 

construction vehicle or truck on any street, highway, or driveway 

within Capitol Grounds, except while actually transacting business at 

the Capitol Buildings, provided that the vehicle is essential to the

transaction. That transaction must involve an administrative, 

housekeeping or support function or duty necessary to the maintenance 

of the Capitol Buildings or an official function of the United States

Congress. All such vehicles must be security screened through the 

United States Capitol Police Off-Site Delivery Center, or such other 

screening security as determined by the Board.54

§16.11.20. ANIMAL-DRAWN VEHICLES 

No person shall operate any animal-drawn vehicle on any street, 

highway, or driveway in the area bounded by First Street on the west, 

Constitution Avenue on the north, Independence Avenue on the south, 

and First Street on the east.

§ 16.12. SALE OF GOODS, COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AND SOLICITATION

§16.12.10. CONVEYANCE OF GOODS AND MERCHANDISE

It is unlawful to use any road on Capitol Grounds to convey goods or 

merchandise except as officially authorized..

55

§16.12.20. VENDING

No person shall offer or expose any article for sale unless officially 

authorized to do so. 56

§16.12.30. COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING 

No person shall display, place or maintain a sign, placard, or other 

form of advertisement unless officially authorized to do so. 57

§16.12.40. SOLICITATION 

No person shall solicit fares, alms, subscriptions, or contributions

unless officially authorized to do so.

58

54 As added and amended by the Board pursuant to “Amendment to the Traffic and Motor Vehicle Regulations for 

United States Capitol Grounds” (February 8, 2002).

55 See also 40 U.S.C. § 5104(b) (“Obstruction of Roads”). See Appendix F. 56 See also 40 U.S.C. § 5104(c) (“Sale of Articles, Display of Signs and Solicitations”). See Appendix F. 57 Id. 58 Id. 
§ 16.13. TRIPODS AND PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT

The use of tripods or other film or photography enhancement equipment is limited to 

grassy areas where pedestrian or vehicular traffic will not be impeded. Tripods may 

not be used for commercial photography unless officially authorized by the Board.59 

Any tripod that does not conform to this regulation is subject to removal or relocation 

to another area on Capitol Grounds.

§ 16.14. TEMPORARY CLOSING OR CORDONING OFF OF CAPITOL GROUNDS

The Board is authorized to issue an order temporarily closing or cordoning off any 

area or any part of Capitol Grounds at any time if a determination is made that doing 

so is necessary for the safety, convenience or protection of pedestrian, vehicular or 

any other type of traffic on Capitol Grounds.

§ 16.15. CLOSED OR CORDONED OFF AREAS ON CAPITOL GROUNDS

No unauthorized person shall enter any closed or cordoned off areas on Capitol 

Grounds.

§ 16.16. PROHIBITED ITEMS ON CAPITOL GROUNDS. 

§ 16.16.10 Pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Section 5104(e)(1), firearms, dangerous weapons, explosives, 

or incendiary devices are prohibited on Capitol Grounds. 

§16.16.20 At the direction of the Chief of Police, the United States Capitol Police may search 

packages, backpacks, and other containers in the immediate possession of individuals 

who enter and are within the United States Capitol Grounds for the purpose of 

detecting prohibited items.

59 Currently the Board issues permits on a case-by-case basis for commercial filming on Union Square. Legislation 

is pending at the time of printing.
Chapter 17

Union Square

§ 17.1 General Prohibition of Commercial Activity

All activity on Capitol Grounds is regulated by and subject to all Capitol Police Board 

regulations. However, certain commercial activity described below is allowed at the 

parcel of land known as Union Square to the extent that it was allowable on or before 

December 23, 2011. (P.L. 113-76.) 

All other commercial activity that is generally prohibited on Capitol Grounds, and not 

specifically allowed pursuant to this Chapter, remains prohibited within Union 

Square.

§ 17.2 Union Square

Union Square is described as the property which is bounded on the north by 

Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, on the east by First Street Northwest and First 

Street Southwest, on the south by Maryland Avenue Southwest, and on the west 

by Third Street Southwest and Third Street Northwest. This comprises the area 

transferred to the Architect of the Capitol under Section 1202 of the Legislative 

Branch Appropriations Act, 2012.

§ 17.3 Authority of the United States Capitol Police Board

Pursuant to Public Law 113-76, the Capitol Police Board may 

promulgate regulations (in consultation with the Committee on House 

Administration and the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate) 

regarding the use of Union Square pursuant to the Capitol Police Board’s 

authority under Section 14 of the Act of July 31, 1946 (2 U.S.C. § 1969).

§ 17.4 Commercial Activity

§ 17.4.1 Definition – The only commercial Activities permitted on Union Square are the 

taking of photographs, filming, and sales of articles and printed material (only books, 

newspapers, leaflets, pamphlets, buttons and bumper stickers) associated with the 

permitted activity. The sale of food, food items, or other perishable items shall not be 

permitted.

§ 17.4.2 Definition – “Person”, as used in these regulations, includes any individual, company, 

or other entity, whether public or private, for profit or not for profit.

§ 17.5 Permits

Prior to engaging in commercial activity within Union Square a person shall obtain a 

permit from the United States Capitol Police. In order to request a permit, an 

application shall be filed with the United States Capitol Police Special Events 
Section, and may be subject to a security assessment by the Chief of the United States 

Capitol Police (“Chief”) or designee. 

All applications for commercial activity permits must be submitted in writing to the 

United States Capitol Police Special Events Section at least ten (10) business days in 

advance of the proposed commercial activity.

Should the Chief fail to act on a properly completed and timely filed application 

within forty-eight (48) hours prior to the date of the proposed commercial activity, 

such application shall be deemed denied.

No permit, other than still photography permits, shall be issued for more than 7 

consecutive days nor may permits be issued for consecutive 7 day periods to the same 

applicant.

No permitted activity shall be for more than 23 consecutive hours unless good cause 

is shown on the permit application and a waiver is granted by the Capitol Police 

Board.

§ 17.6 Prohibited Items and Activities

The following items/activities are prohibited within Union Square:

a. Firearms

b. Replica firearms

c. Knives

d. Mace or pepper spray

e. Ammunition

f. Explosives and fireworks

g. Open flame

h. Alcohol

i. Commercial Advertisement not associated with permitted activity

j. Sale of food and beverages

k. Climbing, jumping, hanging, or swinging onto or into any landscaping 

or architectural feature

l. Swimming, wading, or entering the Reflecting Pool

m. The use of model rockets, remote or manually-controlled model

gliders, model airplanes or unmanned aircrafts, model boats, and 

model cars

§ 17.7 Security Assessments

§ 17.7.1 Security Assessment – The Chief or designee may require a security 

assessment of any activity or items included in a permit application. 
§ 17.7.2 Inspections All items and vehicles transporting items to be used at Union Square shall 

be subject to inspection at a time and place determined by the United States Capitol 

Police.

§ 17.8 Permit Fees

§ 17.8.1 Permit Fees - The terms and conditions of a permit issued by the Chief will require 

the person to whom the permit is issued to pay a fee to cover any costs incurred by 

the Architect of the Capitol as a result of the issuance of the permit. The United 

States Capitol Police shall collect the fee on behalf of the Architect of the Capitol 

upon the issuance of a permit in such a manner as determined by the United States 

Capitol Police in consultation with the Architect of the Capitol.

§ 17.8.2 Approval of the Fee Structure – The Capitol Police Board shall approve the fee 

structure for permits.

§ 17.8.3 Review of the Fee Structure – The Capitol Police Board shall review the permit fee 

structure annually. Any proposed changes to the fee structure shall be approved in 

writing by the Capitol Police Board.

§ 17.8.4 Capitol Trust Account – Any permit fee that is collected by the United States Capitol 

Police on behalf of the Architect of the Capitol shall be transferred to the “Capitol 

Trust Account” established in the Treasury of the United States.

§ 17.8.5 Use of Funds – Amounts in the Capitol Trust Account shall be available without 

fiscal year limitation for such maintenance, improvements, and projects with respect 

to Union Square as the Architect of the Capitol considers appropriate, subject to the 

approval of the Committees on Appropriations of the United States House of 

Representatives and Senate.

§ 17.8.6 Publication of Fees – The Chief, upon the approval of the Capitol Police Board, may 

amend the fees on 30 days published notice. Any permit issued prior to such notice 

shall not be subject to the amended fees.

§ 17.9 Fee Schedule and Other Requirements

§ 17.9.1 Still Photography Fees – The following shall be the per day fee for an application to 

photograph at Union Square and the Grant Statue consistent with the fees that had previously 

been collected by the National Park Service:

1-10 people photographed $50 per day

11-30 people photographed: $150 per day

Over 30 people photographed: $250 per day
Still photography permits shall only be valid for 30 days from the date of 

issuance. No bond shall be required when the activity relates solely to still 

photography at the Grant Statute.

§ 17.9.1.1 Still Photography Fees: School Photography Companies– The following shall be the 

annual fee for a permit to take still photographs at Union Square and the Grant 

Memorial for companies whose principal commercial work is to photograph school 

groups: $10,000 annual fee which permits 200 days per calendar year of photography. 

Each company shall pay a pro rata share of the fee monthly and submit at that time 

the days on which they wish to take photographs. Any company that exceeds 200 

days photographing at Union Square and/or the Grant Memorial shall be charged the 

current daily fees set forth in § 17.9.1 above. No bond shall be required when the 

activity relates to still photography by companies whose principal commercial work 

is to photograph school groups at Union Square and the Grant Memorial.

§ 17.9.2 Filming Fees – The following shall be the per day fee for an application to film at 

Union Square and the Grant Statue consistent with the fees that had previously been 

collected by the National Park Service: 

1-10 people on set: $150 per day

11-30 people on set: $250 per day

31-49 people on set: $500 per day

Over 50 people on set: $750 per day

§ 17.9.3 Bond – At the discretion of the Chief, in consultation with the Architect of the 

Capitol, a bond may be required as a condition of a permit issued for commercial use 

of Union Square except as stated herein. Such bond shall be based on the cost 

estimate by the Architect of the Capitol. Such estimate shall be based on current 

estimates of labor and overtime rates plus materials needed to support the permitted 

activity and to restore the property to its condition prior to the permitted activity.

§ 17.9.4 Insurance – The Chief of the United States Capitol Police in consultation with the 

Architect of the Capitol may require proof of liability insurance (naming the United 

States as an additional insured) as a condition of a permit being issued for the 

commercial use of Union Square.

§ 17.10 Denial of Permit Application

§ 17.10.1 Denial of Permit Application – A permit application may be denied after a security 

assessment if it is determined that the commercial activity or any items associated 

with the activity pose a risk to the safety and security of the United States Capitol 

complex, Members of Congress, staff, or visitors; or if it is determined that the 

requested activity would create an unreasonable risk of damage to Capitol Grounds 

which could not be repaired or adequately covered by a bond; or if Union Square is 
otherwise unavailable on the date(s)/time(s) requested. A permit may also be denied 

if the permit application does not contain sufficient information for a determination to 

be made as to whether a permit should be issued or if the required fees are not 

submitted in full with the permit application. 

The Chief or designee shall notify the permit applicant, in writing (where time 

allows), of the reason for the denial of the permit application. (Email communication 

may also be used.) 

§ 17.10.2 Resubmission – A permit applicant may resubmit a commercial activity application 

that has been denied if the application has been cured of all identified deficiencies and 

all security/safety or architectural concerns have been resolved.

§ 17.10.3 Appeal – A permit applicant may submit a written appeal of the denial of a permit 

(including permits denied through inaction under §14.5) to the Capitol Police Board 

within 10 days of receipt of the denial of the permit application or within 10 days of 

the denial of a permit by inaction. The appeal must include a copy of the written 

denial (if there is one), state the reasons why the permit should be issued, and include 

any additional factors that the applicant would like the Capitol Police Board to 

consider. The Capitol Police Board shall issue a written decision (email may also be 

used) on the appeal within 10 business days after the appeal is received. All decisions 

of the Capitol Police Board are final. However, an applicant whose appeal has been 

denied may resubmit a permit application curing all deficiencies contained in the 

original application or curing all issues/concerns identified in the security assessment.