Parking FAQs

When are Parking Meters in effect?

Parking Meters are in effect from 8am – 8pm daily (except Sundays and Holidays).

Can you park on the street overnight?

On street parking is allowed overnight except during the winter months. The overnight on-street parking ban is 1 to 6 am and is strictly enforced when it is in effect, usually the Sunday following Thanksgiving and ends the 1st weekend in April. The exact dates will be posted on the City of Watertown & Watertown Police Department websites, and on social media. During the overnight parking ban, a vehicle cannot be parked on the street for more than 1 hour between the hours of 1am and 6am.

Where can I park during the Overnight parking ban?

No vehicles can be parked on any street for a period longer than one (1) hour between the hours of 1 A.M. and 6 A.M. on any day. If you lack sufficient parking, you may park your vehicle at one of the municipal lots. Please remember these locations are available 7 days a week ONLY after 7 P.M. and must be removed by 7 A.M (6 A.M. for school properties).

 For more information, please review the Watertown Police Department Traffic Division page.

How can I appeal a parking ticket?

To appeal a parking ticket, you must fill out an appeal form or submit a brief written statement and submit it to the office of the parking clerk within 21 days of the ticket being issued. Appeals received after 21 days of violation will not be accepted. 

Is there an on-street parking limit in Watertown?

There is a city-wide 2 hour on street parking limit (unless otherwise posted). The 2-hour parking limit is in effect from 7am-7pm daily (except Sundays and holidays).  Please see WPD for on street parking regulations.

Who can I contact with a question or complaint related to parking and/or traffic concerns in Watertown?

For questions about parking ticket payments or appeals, please contact the Office of the Parking Clerk at 617-972-6453. For questions regarding parking enforcement, regulations, signage, etc. please contact the Watertown Police Department’s Traffic Division at 617-972-6547. For PODS questions contact DPW at 617-972-6420.

Senior Parking Permits

For Watertown residents 65 and older, parking permits are available for up to two hours of free parking at meters in municipal lots only, not for street parking. Permits are $3 for two years, and $2 for one year. Call the Senior Center to make an appointment for new permits; renewals can be processed over the phone at 617-972-6490.

See the Watertown Traffic Rules and Orders:

City of Watertown, MA Traffic Rules and Orders (ecode360.com)