What Are Waltham's Winter Parking Rules?

WALTHAM, MA – When the first snowfall hits, you don't want to be left out in the cold – pun very much intended.

Waltham's parking rules are a bit tricky because they are not in effect throughout the winter, but rather when the city specifically declares a snow emergency.

Here's what you need to know about parking this winter, via the Waltham city website:

Snow Emergencies

The Consolidated Public Works Director will call a “snow emergency” when Excessive amounts of snow are predicted. All vehicles “must” be removed from all roadways to allow for a better clearing job. All vehicles left on the road are subject to tow.

These emergencies are usually called well in advance of these storms to allow residents plenty of time to make arrangements.

Snow Emergencies are broadcast on all major television stations as well as local television and on the City of Waltham web site.

It is strongly advised that residents move their vehicles as soon as possible.

When a "Snow Emergency" is called...

The City of Waltham has several municipal and school lots. If you are unable to park in a driveway during a parking ban, you may use any municipal or school parking lot, and you do not have to pay the meters to park (only applicable when parking ban is in effect).

When a parking ban is in place, there is absolutely no parking on city streets as violators may be subject to tow. If your car is towed, you can call the Waltham Police Department to recover it at (781) 314-3600.

After a parking ban is lifted, you have:

2 HOURS to remove cars from SCHOOL LOTS
24 HOURS to remove cars from MUNICIPAL LOTS

Any cars remaining in school lots at the two-hour mark from the time the parking ban has been released, will be ticketed or towed.

Any cars remaining in municipal lots at the 24-hour mark from the time the parking ban has been released, will be ticketed or towed.

Photo courtesy of Eden, Janine and Jim via Flickr