Can I jaywalk?
No, crossing on red or away from the crossing is an offence — pedestrians must follow the lights and the nearest crossing. As a pedestrian you must obey the pedestrian lights: red means you may not start crossing. If there is a pedestrian crossing within 20 metres, you must use it (art. 42 of the road code). If you cross elsewhere, it must be perpendicular to the roadway, without dawdling, giving way to traffic and watching the vehicles. Breaking this — crossing on red or ignoring the crossing — is a first-degree offence: since 1 July 2026 an immediate settlement of €64 (plus a €10.67 surcharge).
📋 The rules
- Red pedestrian light: you may not step onto the roadway
- If there is a crossing within 20 metres, you must use it (art. 42 of the road code)
- Crossing elsewhere only perpendicular to the roadway, giving way to traffic
- Don't dawdle and keep an eye on approaching vehicles
- Fine: first-degree offence — €64 since 1 July 2026 (+ €10.67)
🔓 Exceptions
- With no crossing within 20 metres, you may cross where you like, as long as you go perpendicular and safely
- Instructions from an authorised person (e.g. a traffic warden) always take priority over the lights
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Crossing improperly as a pedestrian is a first-degree offence. Since the 1 July 2026 increase, the immediate settlement is €64 (previously €58), plus a €10.67 administrative surcharge. If you don't pay, the prosecutor can pursue it.
📎 Official sources
- VSV / Veilig Verkeer · where pedestrians must cross →
- Wegcode.be · road code (art. 42) →
- Mobilit.belgium.be · immediate settlements (1 July 2026) →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I cross on red if there are no cars?
No. A red pedestrian light means you may not start crossing, even if the road looks clear. You risk a first-degree fine.
Do I always have to use the pedestrian crossing?
If there is a crossing within 20 metres, yes. If there is none nearby, you may cross where you like, but perpendicular to the roadway and giving way to traffic.
How much is a fine for crossing improperly?
Since 1 July 2026 it is an immediate settlement of €64, plus a €10.67 surcharge. It is a first-degree offence.
Does the same apply to cyclists?
Cyclists follow the vehicle lights (or bicycle lights). Running a red light is, for drivers, a more serious third-degree offence (€191).
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “jaywalking fine belgium”
- “pedestrian crossing 20 metres”
- “pedestrian crossing rules”
- “fine crossing on red”
- “red light pedestrian”