How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Brookline
Within 10 Feet of Hydrant
In the City of Brookline, you are strictly prohibited from parking within 10 feet of a fire hydrant to ensure emergency vehicles have adequate access. This safety buffer applies at all times, regardless of whether there are specific signs or painted curbs marking the distance. Violating this rule results in an immediate citation due to the potential safety hazard.
Guide to Fighting City of Brookline Within 10 Feet of Hydrant
Let’s be honest: seeing that ticket tucked under your windshield wiper is the quickest way to ruin a day in Brookline. If you have been cited for parking within 10 feet of a hydrant, you are looking at a $100 base fine. It is a steep price to pay for a few feet of asphalt, but the City of Brookline takes fire safety very seriously. The rule exists to ensure that fire trucks have enough clearance to connect hoses and operate efficiently during an emergency without maneuvering around tight obstacles.
Why are these tickets issued so frequently? Often, it comes down to a simple misjudgment of distance. Ten feet is longer than most people estimate by eye—it is roughly the length of a standard compact car or a little less than two average-height people lying down head-to-toe. Parking enforcement officers often carry measuring devices or have a practiced eye for these violations. Even if you aren't blocking the hydrant directly, being inside that 10-foot buffer zone is enough to trigger a citation. It does not matter if you were only running into a shop for five minutes or if it was late at night; the hydrant zone is active 24/7.
However, not every ticket is open-and-shut. There are valid angles for disputing these citations. For instance, was the hydrant obscured by overgrown bushes, snow, or debris, making it impossible to see from the road? Was the curb paint faded or misleading? Or perhaps you were actually parked at a legal distance, and the officer made an error in measurement. If you have photos proving your car was more than 10 feet away, or showing that the hydrant was hidden from view, you may have a strong case for dismissal.
This is where Busted comes in. We believe that dealing with parking tickets shouldn't require a law degree or a trip to the post office. Our web app streamlines the entire process for you. You do not need to download anything; simply access Busted through your browser. We help you contest the ticket if you believe it was issued unfairly. We can help you draft a professional dispute letter and organize your evidence to present the best possible argument to the hearing officer.
If you decide that disputing isn't the right path—or if the ticket was valid—you can also settle the fine directly through our platform. Speed is essential here. The City of Brookline adds a $10 late fee if payment is not received within 21 days. If you wait longer than 42 days, the penalty jumps by another $40, and the matter is referred to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), which can prevent you from renewing your registration. Whether you choose to fight it or pay it, Busted helps you resolve the issue quickly so you can move on.
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 |