How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Brookline
On Sidewalk
Parking on the sidewalk is strictly prohibited in Brookline to ensure safe passage for pedestrians and compliance with accessibility laws. This rule applies even if your vehicle is only partially hanging over the paved walkway or if you are parked in a driveway that crosses the sidewalk. To avoid a citation, your entire vehicle must remain on the street or private property without obstructing the pedestrian path.
Guide to Fighting City of Brookline On Sidewalk
Finding a lime green envelope tucked under your windshield wiper is never the highlight of anyone's day, especially in the City of Brookline. If you have been cited for parking "On Sidewalk," you might be scratching your head—especially if you thought you were pulled over far enough. However, Brookline is particularly diligent about maintaining clear paths for pedestrians, strollers, and wheelchairs. This violation isn't just about parking four wheels on the concrete; even a bumper overhanging the walkway can trigger a ticket.
The initial sting of this ticket is a $25.00 base fine. While that might sound manageable compared to moving violations, ignoring it is where things get expensive. The city operates on a strict timeline for payments. If you wait longer than 21 days to address the issue, a $10.00 late fee is tacked on, bringing your total to $35.00. If the ticket remains unpaid after 42 days, the situation escalates significantly. An additional $40.00 penalty is applied, and the matter is referred to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). Once the RMV gets involved, they can place a "non-renewal" hold on your registration, meaning you won't be able to renew your tags until all fines and fees are settled.
Fortunately, you don't have to simply accept the fine if you believe it was issued in error. Valid disputes often revolve around the specific geometry of the street. For example, if the area where you parked was not actually a designated public sidewalk but rather a paved strip of private property, you may have grounds for dismissal. Additionally, if your vehicle was disabled due to a mechanical emergency and you were forced to pull onto the sidewalk for safety, providing a tow receipt or repair bill can help your case. However, simply stating that you "didn't mean to" or were "only there for a minute" usually won't work.
That is where Busted comes in. We understand that navigating municipal codes and writing appeal letters is a hassle you don't need. Our web app streamlines the entire process for you. Whether you want to contest the ticket because the officer made a mistake regarding the property line, or you just want to pay it quickly to avoid those escalating RMV fees, we handle the heavy lifting. You answer a few questions about your situation, and we help generate the response needed to deal with the City of Brookline.
Remember, time is of the essence. With late fees kicking in at the three-week mark, taking action immediately is the best way to save money. Use the Busted web app to manage your ticket today, keep your registration clear, and get back to your day without the stress of looming fines.
Late fee schedule
| Timing | Fee |
|---|---|
21-42 days If payment is received after 21 days, an additional $10 penalty is added. | $10.00 |
After 42 days If payment is not made and the matter is referred to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) an additional $40 penalty is applied. A registration renewal hold may also be placed. | $40.00 |