California § 652.5 - The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved f
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 652.5 — The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved f, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 652.5. The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved f
(a) The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved for public safety vessels and may be displayed during the day or night whenever the vessel may be engaged in direct law enforcement activities, including, but not limited to, those activities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 663.7, or public safety activities conducted by a fire department or a fire protection district, where identification of a public safety vessel is desirable or where necessary for safety reasons. (b) That light when used shall be in addition to prescribed lights and day signals required by law. (c) The display of these blue lights on vessels for other purposes is prohibited. (d) A vessel approaching, overtaking, being approached, or being overtaken by a moving public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or a vessel approaching a stationary public safety vessel displaying an illuminated blue light, shall immediately slow to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage only, shall alter its course, within its ability, so as not to inhibit or interfere with the operation of the public safety vessel, and shall proceed, unless otherwise directed by the operator of the public safety vessel, at the reduced speed until beyond the area of operation of the public safety vessel. (e) The operator of a cable ferry shall take whatever reasonable action is necessary to provide a clear course for a public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or both. (f) For purposes of this section, âpublic safety vesselâ means a law enforcement, a fire department, or a fire protection district vessel.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 652.5
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 652.5 cover?
Section 652.5 ("The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved f") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 652.5?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 652.5" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 652.5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.