How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Cambridge
No stopping
A "No Stopping" violation in Cambridge means you are not allowed to bring your vehicle to a halt in the designated zone for any reason, even if the engine is running and you are in the driver's seat. This is stricter than a "No Parking" zone and prohibits even momentary stops to drop off passengers or load goods.
Guide to Fighting City of Cambridge No stopping
Driving through the City of Cambridge can be a challenge, especially when you are trying to navigate the tight streets around the squares and universities. Finding a bright orange envelope on your windshield is never the highlight of anyone's day, but understanding why you received a "No Stopping" citation is the first step to resolving it. Unlike a standard parking ticket, this specific violation catches many drivers off guard because of how strictly it is defined.
So, what does "No Stopping" actually mean? In the hierarchy of traffic rules, this is one of the most restrictive. While a "No Parking" sign usually permits you to temporarily stop to load groceries or let a passenger out, a "No Stopping" zone prohibits your vehicle from becoming stationary for any length of time. These zones are typically established in high-traffic areas, bike lanes, or narrow intersections where any blockage could cause immediate congestion or safety hazards. Even if your hazard lights were flashing and you were only stopped for thirty seconds to check your GPS, the $40.00 fine is technically valid the moment your wheels stopped moving.
While the base fine is $40.00, ignoring the ticket is where it gets expensive. Cambridge has a tiered late fee system that penalizes procrastination. If you fail to pay or appeal the citation within 21 days, a $10.00 late fee is added. If the ticket remains unresolved after 67 days, another $5.00 is added. Finally, if the ticket is still open after 104 days, a significant $40.00 fee is slapped on top. This means a standard $40 ticket can more than double to $95 if left unattended, potentially blocking your ability to renew your vehicle registration or license.
However, you don't always have to accept the fine if you believe it was issued unfairly. Since Busted supports disputes for the City of Cambridge, you have options. While the rule is strict, enforcement errors do happen. Valid dispute angles often involve signage issues—if the "No Stopping" sign was obscured by graffiti, hidden by overgrown tree branches, or missing entirely, you may have grounds for dismissal. Additionally, if your vehicle was stopped due to a documented medical emergency or a mechanical breakdown (supported by a tow truck or repair receipt), the city may waive the penalty.
That is where the Busted web app can help. We know that navigating municipal websites or mailing in checks can be a hassle. Our platform offers a streamlined way to manage your parking citations directly from your browser. Whether you want to pay the fine securely to avoid those looming late fees or submit a dispute because the signage was unclear, Busted simplifies the process. You don't need to download any software; simply log in to our web app, enter your ticket details, and let us assist you in resolving your Cambridge parking ticket quickly and efficiently.
Late fee schedule
| Timing | Fee |
|---|---|
21-67 days Tickets must be paid or appealed within 21 days to avoid the first late fee. | $10.00 |
67-104 days Tickets must be paid or appealed within 21 days to avoid the first late fee. | $5.00 |
After 104 days Tickets must be paid or appealed within 21 days to avoid the first late fee. | $40.00 |