Living rule book
NYC street condition rules at one intersection
Each number marks a rule. Pick a number to zoom in and read the rule with its official source. Open it to read the full rule page.
- Not allowed
- Allowed
- What the rule is about
- Distance in the rule
Plain-language summaries. The official text linked with each rule is the law. Not legal advice.
All rules on this street
The same rules as the drawing, in order.
1. Traffic signal not working
Allowed · 34 RCNY § 4-03(a)(7)
Drivers facing a traffic signal that is not working must stop before the near crosswalk, or before the intersection if there is none, and then go through with caution.
Official sources
Open the official source →2. Blinking red signal
Allowed · 34 RCNY § 4-03(b)(1)
Drivers facing a blinking red signal must come to a complete stop, and go only after yielding to pedestrians and to vehicles coming from the cross street.
Official sources
Open the official source →3. Manhole cover not flush
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 19-147(d), (g)
Utility manhole covers, castings and other street hardware must be kept flush with the street around them. Loose, slippery or broken covers must be replaced as the Transportation Commissioner directs. A utility told of a problem must respond within 24 hours.
Official sources
Open the official source →4. Street cut not restored
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 19-147(a), (e)
Whoever takes up pavement, sidewalk, curb or gutter in a street, or has it taken up, must restore it to its proper condition to the satisfaction of the Transportation Commissioner. If not, the City may do it and charge them the cost.
Official sources
Open the official source →5. Unasked windshield washing
Not allowed · 34 RCNY § 4-04(g)(3)
No one may approach the driver or a passenger of a stopped or parked car on a street to wash, polish or clean the car, or offer to, or to ask for a tip for any such service.
Official sources
Open the official source →6. Selling to cars in the roadway
Not allowed · 34 RCNY § 4-04(g)(1)
No one may stand in the roadway to talk with, sell to, or offer to sell anything to the people in a vehicle.
Official sources
Open the official source →7. Public urination
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 16-118(6), (9)(b)
No filthy matter may be let fall on or run into a street or public place. For public urination by a person, the civil penalty is $75 for a first violation, and more for repeat ones within 12 months.
Official sources
Open the official source →8. Goods or sheds left on the street
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 16-122(b)
No one may leave a box, barrel, bale of goods or other movable property on a public street or public place, or put up a shed, building or other obstruction there.
Official sources
Open the official source →
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