How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Boston

Parking in Boston is practically a competitive sport, and unfortunately, sometimes you lose. If you have returned to your car to find an orange envelope tucked under your wiper, you are not alone. Specifically, the "No Parking (Zone B)" violation is a common headache for drivers navigating the city's complex residential and commercial districts. This ticket comes with a $55.00 base fine, which isn't exactly pocket change.

So, what exactly is a Zone B violation? The City of Boston divides many of its neighborhoods into specific parking zones to prioritize residents. If you park in a Zone B area without a valid resident permit sticker for that specific zone, or if you park there during restricted hours posted on the signage, you are liable to be ticketed. These rules are strictly enforced to prevent commuters from taking up spots meant for people who live on those streets. It is not just about blocking traffic; it is about neighborhood management.

It is crucial to address this ticket quickly. Ignoring it will not make it go away; in fact, it gets more expensive. If the fine remains unpaid 21 days after the notice is issued, the City of Boston assesses a late penalty of $8.00. While that might not sound like a massive hike, unpaid tickets can eventually accumulate, leading to the boot or towing, turning a nuisance into a nightmare.

The good news is that you do not always have to just pay up. There are valid reasons to dispute a parking ticket. When it comes to Zone B violations, look at the evidence. Was the signage clearly visible? If a tree branch was obscuring the "Zone B Only" sign, or if the sign was defaced with graffiti, you might have a case. Additionally, check the ticket itself for clerical errors. Did the officer record the wrong license plate number, car color, or make? If you actually have a valid Zone B permit but it had fallen off the dashboard or was temporarily obscured by snow, you may also be able to contest the fine with proof of your permit.

That is where Busted comes in. We have built a web app designed to take the stress out of parking tickets. You do not need to navigate the city's confusing municipal website alone. With Busted, you can manage your ticket entirely online. If you choose to dispute, we can help you organize your evidence and present your case professionally. If you prefer to just get it over with, you can pay the fine securely through our platform. While we cannot guarantee a dismissal—the final decision always rests with the city—we make the process significantly faster and less confusing than handling it on your own.