Originally Posted by bshanteau

In California, the requirement for limit line detection zones kicked in on September 10, 2009, and is now incorporated in the CA Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. After that date, if any substantial changes were made to the detection at a traffic actuated signal, then limit line detection zones are required. Perhaps informing your city staff of that would be helpful.

Here are the relevant definitions in in the CA MUTCD:

QUOTE]104b. Limit Line Detection Zone – a Referenced Bicycle-Rider must be detected in a 6 x 6 feet area immediately behind the limit line, centered either in a normal width lane or if the lane is more than 12 feet wide, centered 6 feet from the left lane line. For a lane of 20 feet or greater, two minimum 6 x 6 feet areas shall constitute the Limit Line Detection Zone.

171a. Reference Bicycle-Rider – a minimum 4 feet tall person, weighing minimum 90 lb, riding on an unmodified minimum 16 inch wheel bicycle with non-ferromagnetic frame, non-ferromagnetic fork and cranks, aluminum rims, stainless steel spokes, and headlight.