How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Boston

Parking in Boston can often feel like a competitive sport, and unfortunately, finding a legal spot is half the battle. If you have returned to your vehicle to find a ticket tucked under your windshield wiper for a violation described as "Upon any Crosswalk," you are likely looking at an $85.00 fine. While this is a frustrating expense, understanding why these tickets are issued and how to handle them can save you time and stress.

Crosswalk violations are strictly enforced by the City of Boston to ensure the safety and accessibility of pedestrians. The city prioritizes keeping pathways clear for people walking, individuals using wheelchairs, and parents with strollers. A common misconception is that a crosswalk must have bright white painted lines to be enforceable. However, in Boston, an unmarked crosswalk exists at any intersection. If any part of your vehicle—even just the nose of your bumper—overhangs the crossing area, a parking enforcement officer is authorized to issue a citation.

Despite the strict rules, not every parking ticket is valid. There are several angles you might consider if you choose to dispute the citation. One of the most common defenses involves the visibility of the crosswalk. If the painted lines were severely faded, covered by snow, or obscured by debris, you may have grounds for a dismissal. Additionally, check the ticket for clerical errors. If the officer recorded the wrong license plate number, vehicle make, or color, the ticket may be invalid. You might also have a case if your vehicle was disabled due to a mechanical failure and you were actively waiting for a tow truck, provided you can submit a receipt or invoice as proof.

If you believe you were ticketed unfairly, or if you simply want to handle the fine without navigating the city's complex government website, the Busted web app is here to help. We support disputes for the City of Boston, meaning we can help you fight back against unfair citations. You do not need to download a new app to your phone; our platform is entirely web-based and accessible from any browser.

Using Busted is straightforward. You simply answer a few questions about your ticket and upload a photo of the citation. Our system helps identify the best defense strategy for your specific situation. We can assist in generating a custom defense letter to submit to the city's parking clerk. If you prefer to simply pay the fine and move on, or if your dispute is not accepted, we also facilitate the payment process. It is crucial to act quickly, as penalties increase if the ticket remains unpaid. With the Busted web app, you can resolve your Boston parking ticket efficiently and get back to your day.