How to Fight Parking Tickets in the City of Somerville
Within 10 ft. of Hydrant
In the City of Somerville, vehicles are prohibited from parking within 10 feet of a fire hydrant to ensure emergency access. This 10-foot buffer applies at all times, regardless of whether there are other signs present or if the hydrant is located on a sidewalk.
Guide to Fighting City of Somerville Within 10 ft. of Hydrant
Parking in Somerville can feel like a competitive sport, and unfortunately, the referees are strict. If you’ve returned to your car to find a ticket for parking within 10 feet of a hydrant, you’re looking at a $100.00 base fine. It’s a frustrating way to end a trip, but understanding why this rule exists and how to handle it can save you a headache later.
The rule is straightforward but often misjudged: you must leave at least 10 feet of clearance on either side of a fire hydrant. This isn't just about blocking the hydrant itself; fire trucks are large, and firefighters need significant space to maneuver hoses and equipment during an emergency. Even if you thought you left enough room, parking enforcement officers carry tape measures, and they aren't afraid to use them. A visual estimate that looks "safe" to you might technically be 9 feet, resulting in a violation.
Ignoring this ticket is a bad idea. Somerville has a tiered late fee structure that kicks in relatively quickly. If you don't pay or request a hearing within 21 days, a $5.00 late fee is added. Wait another three weeks (42 days total), and another $15.00 is tacked on. If the ticket remains unresolved after 63 days, the Parking Clerk notifies the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), adding a $40.00 fee and preventing you from renewing your license or registration. That $100 ticket can quickly spiral into a much more expensive problem.
However, you might have grounds to dispute the citation. Common angles for fighting a hydrant ticket include incorrect measurements. If you were actually 11 feet away but the officer estimated poorly, photos with a tape measure can be your best friend. Sometimes, the hydrant is obscured by overgrown bushes or snow, making it impossible to see. In rare cases, the object might not be a functioning hydrant but a different type of utility pipe. While these arguments aren't guaranteed to win, they are valid reasons to request a hearing.
This is where Busted comes in. Our web app simplifies the entire process. You don't need to navigate the city’s complex website or mail in checks manually. If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you can use our platform to gather your evidence and submit a dispute. We help structure your argument to ensure it’s clear and professional. If you’d rather just pay the fine and move on, we handle that securely, too. Using the Busted web app keeps your record clean and helps you avoid those nagging late fees without the stress.
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 |