How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Brookline
Within an Intersection
Parking within an intersection means leaving your vehicle in a position that obstructs the open area where two or more roadways meet. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure that turning vehicles have enough clearance to maneuver and that sightlines remain clear for pedestrians and other drivers. In Brookline, even if your vehicle is only partially extending past the curb line into the crossing area, you are liable for a citation.
Guide to Fighting City of Brookline Within an Intersection
Parking in the City of Brookline can often feel like a competitive sport, and finding that perfect spot sometimes means squeezing into a tight space near a corner. However, if that space puts any part of your car into the intersection, you are likely to return to a bright orange envelope on your windshield. A violation for parking "Within an Intersection" is exactly what it sounds like, but it can catch even the most careful drivers off guard if they aren't paying close attention to curb lines and crosswalk boundaries.
Basically, the City of Brookline enforces this rule to keep corners clear so cars can turn safely and pedestrians can cross without obstruction. If your bumper is hanging past the curb line or you are blocking the "box," you are technically obstructing the intersection. It usually does not matter if you were only there for a minute to grab a coffee or if you thought you left enough room; parking enforcement is strict about keeping these sightlines open for public safety. The goal is to prevent accidents caused by reduced visibility at busy crossings.
The financial sting for this violation starts with a base fine of $25.00. While that might not sound like a bank-breaker initially, ignoring the ticket is a bad idea. Brookline has a structured penalty system for late payments. If you don't pay or appeal within 21 days, the city adds a $10.00 late fee. If you let it slide past 42 days, the situation gets much more serious. The matter is referred to the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), an additional $40.00 penalty is applied, and a hold may be placed on your registration renewal. Suddenly, a $25 ticket becomes a $75 headache with administrative consequences that can keep you off the road.
Can you fight it? Sometimes. There are valid reasons to dispute this type of ticket. If the intersection wasn't clearly defined due to faded paint or confusing markings, you might have a case. Perhaps snow covered the curb lines, making it impossible to see where the legal parking zone ended. Or, maybe your car broke down and you couldn't move it, or the officer simply made a mistake regarding the boundary of the intersection. Evidence is key here—photos showing where your car was positioned relative to the corner are incredibly helpful in these situations.
Whether you want to pay the fine and move on or fight back against an unfair ticket, Busted is here to help. You don't need to navigate the city's confusing municipal site or mail in a check. Our web app streamlines the entire process for you. We can help you file a dispute with the proper evidence or handle the payment securely in just a few clicks. It is the fastest, most stress-free way to clear your plate and get back to driving around Brookline.
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 |