Newton Shortens Winter Parking Ban: What To Know

NEWTON, MA — It's that time again. The first of this season's snow flakes fell Tuesday afternoon and that means the all night parking ban is back, right? Well, not yet.

The night parking ban has been shorted by a month. It will begin on Sunday, Dec. 1 and be in effect until Tuesday, March 31. And for folks who've lived here a while, this is a big change.

For the past three or so decades, beginning Nov. 15 until April. 15 any car or truck parked on the street for more than 1 hour between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., could expect a ticket with a $25.00 fine - raised from $5 in 2014 in an effort to match fines by neighboring communities. Although the city website hasn't been updated as of Nov. 12, the city council approved the measure last month.

Part of the reason for the winter ban has to do with how Newton's narrow streets, especially with cars and snow piled around makes it difficult for emergency vehicles to get through, city officials have said.

Those without off-street parking can apply for a free resident sticker for overnight parking in municipal lots. But if a “Snow Emergency” is declared, parking on any city street may land you a $20 ticket or get you towed.

You can get a permit through the Newton Police Department, but the limited number of stickers are handed out on a first-come-first served basis.

In years past there have been efforts to repeal the ban. Residents have pointed out a ban during the winter days when there is no snow isn't fair to renters or folks who don't have off street parking or people who live far from a municipal lot.

Last year there was even a petition online proposing a ban. >> Opinion: It's Time To End Newton's Winter Overnight Parking Ban

Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).