How much is the fine for parking too close to an intersection during a snow emergency?

The base fine for this violation in the City of Somerville is $100.00.

What happens if I don't pay the ticket on time?

If unpaid after 21 days, a $5.00 late fee is added. A second late fee of $15.00 is applied after 42 days, and if it remains unpaid after 63 days, a $40.00 RMV referral fee is added.

Can I dispute this ticket if I didn't see the snow emergency lights?

You can try, but it is difficult. Somerville uses various methods to announce emergencies, including blue lights, emails, and phone alerts, so lack of knowledge is rarely accepted as a valid defense.

How do I measure the 20-foot distance from the intersection?

The distance is usually measured from the point where the curb lines of the intersecting streets would meet (the corner) back to your bumper.

How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Somerville

Declared Snow Emergency: Within 20 ft. of an Intersection

Base fine: $100.00

When a snow emergency is declared in Somerville, strict parking rules go into effect to ensure plows can navigate narrow streets. You are prohibited from parking within 20 feet of any intersection because snow removal equipment needs that wide clearance to turn corners safely. Failing to leave this gap blocks the plows and will result in a significant fine.

Guide to Fighting City of Somerville Declared Snow Emergency: Within 20 ft. of an Intersection

Winter in Somerville brings its own unique set of challenges, specifically when the blue lights start flashing to signal a declared snow emergency. While finding a spot is hard enough on a regular day, snow emergencies tighten the rules significantly. One of the most common and frustrating citations issued during these times is for parking within 20 feet of an intersection. While it might feel like you tucked your car in safely, that corner space is strictly reserved for logistics, not residents.

Why are these tickets issued? It comes down to geometry and public safety. Snow plows and emergency vehicles are large, heavy machinery with wide turning radii. In a dense city like Somerville, intersections are tight. If a car is parked right up to the corner—or even within that 20-foot buffer zone—a plow simply cannot make the turn without risking a collision or getting stuck. The city issues these tickets aggressively during emergencies to ensure that the roads can be cleared for everyone's safety.

However, mistakes happen, and valid defenses exist. If you found a ticket on your windshield, don't panic. There are a few angles you can look at if you want to contest the citation. First, check the timing. Was the snow emergency officially in effect when the ticket was written? If you parked before the declaration and were ticketed immediately, or if the emergency had already been lifted, you might have a case. Second, consider the measurement. Are you sure you were within 20 feet? Sometimes enforcement officers estimate rather than measure. If you have photos showing you were a reasonable distance away from the intersection lines, that evidence can be crucial.

Dealing with the paperwork for a dispute can be a headache, but the Busted web app simplifies the process. We support disputes for the City of Somerville, meaning you can handle everything directly through your browser. Our system helps you organize your evidence and generates a professional dispute letter based on the details of your situation. You don't need to be a lawyer to fight a ticket; you just need the right tools.

If you decide that the ticket was valid and you simply want to put it behind you, you can also securely pay the fine through the Busted web app. Whether you choose to fight it or pay it, acting quickly is key to avoiding late fees. The goal is to resolve the issue with as little stress as possible so you can get back to your day—hopefully with a plowed street to drive on.

Late fee schedule

Timing	Fee
21-42 days First late fee > 21 days unpaid and no hearing requested	$5.00
42-63 days Second late fee 21 days after the mailed notice if still unpaid (or no hearing request)	$15.00
After 63 days RMV referral fee - when Parking Clerk reports non-payment to Registrar of Motor Vehicles	$40.00

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