How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Somerville
Loading Zone
In Somerville, Loading Zones are designated spaces reserved strictly for commercial vehicles actively loading or unloading goods. Parking a private passenger vehicle in these spots, or leaving a commercial vehicle unattended without active loading, constitutes a violation. These areas are typically identified by specific signage or curb markings indicating the restriction.
Guide to Fighting City of Somerville Loading Zone
Navigating the streets of Somerville can be a challenge, and finding a parking spot often feels like winning the lottery. However, the relief of finding a space can quickly turn into frustration if you return to find an orange envelope tucked under your windshield wiper. If you have received a ticket for a Loading Zone violation, you are certainly not alone. While these zones are essential for local businesses to receive deliveries, they are also common traps for everyday drivers looking for a quick place to stop.
So, why were you issued this ticket? In the City of Somerville, Loading Zones are strictly regulated. These curb spaces are set aside specifically for the loading and unloading of materials, and usually, they are restricted to vehicles displaying commercial license plates. Even if you were only running into a shop for "just a minute" or were actively loading groceries into your personal sedan, you are technically in violation of the city ordinance. Parking enforcement officers patrol these high-traffic areas frequently to ensure that delivery trucks have the access they need, meaning they have little patience for passenger cars blocking the way.
However, receiving a ticket does not automatically mean you are out of options. While we cannot guarantee a dismissal, there are valid angles to dispute a Loading Zone citation. The most common successful disputes involve signage visibility. Was the sign knocked down, covered by overgrown tree branches, or defaced with graffiti? If the restrictions weren't clearly visible, you might have a case. Additionally, check the ticket for clerical errors. If the officer wrote down the wrong license plate number, make, or model of your vehicle, the ticket could be considered invalid. You might also have grounds for a dispute if your vehicle broke down and you were waiting for a tow, provided you have the receipts to prove it.
This is where the Busted web app comes in to simplify your life. We understand that the traditional process of fighting a parking ticket involves confusing government websites or mailing in paper forms. Busted modernizes this experience. You don't need to download anything; simply access our web app through your browser. We guide you through a series of simple questions about your situation and allow you to upload photos of your ticket and any evidence, like pictures of the signage or your vehicle. Based on your inputs, we help you compose a professional dispute letter or manage the payment process directly.
It is vital to address this citation immediately because Somerville has an aggressive late fee structure. The base fine for a Loading Zone violation is $50.00. If you leave this unpaid for 21 days and do not request a hearing, the city adds a $5.00 late fee. If the ticket remains unresolved for 42 days, a second late fee of $15.00 is applied. Finally, after 63 days, the Parking Clerk will report the debt to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles (RMV), incurring a hefty $40.00 referral fee and preventing you from renewing your registration. Don't let a $50 annoyance spiral into a $110 headache. Use the Busted web app today to resolve your ticket quickly and get back to your day.
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 |