Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department I was recently asked a question regarding parking regulations. These often result in interesting questions from time to time This one was, “What are the rules/restrictions, if any, concerning parking a camper on the street in front of one's home in Dudley?” Certainly, all parking situations are taken on a case-by-case basis. If a vehicle, of any kind, is registered, legally parked, and not violating the law by obstructing traffic, impeding snow removal operations, etc., it will most often be able to remain. The parking regulations in Dudley are contained in our By-Laws Chapter 280. Section 1 states, “All vehicles shall be parked on the right-hand side of the road parallel with and within 12 inches of the curbing where sidewalks are curbed and parallel with the lines of the road and as far off the traveled way as can be reasonably done where there is not curbing. In no case shall a vehicle be allowed to stand diagonally on the streets of the Town.” Section 2 prohibits parking in designated locations such as “Within an intersection, Upon any sidewalk, Upon a crosswalk, Upon any roadway where parking of vehicles does not leave a clear and unobstructed lane at least 10 feet wide for passing traffic, Upon any street or highway within 10 feet of a fire hydrant, Upon or in front or within 10 feet of any alley, private road or driveway, Upon any street or highway within 20 feet of an intersecting way, Upon any highway or street or way abutting school grounds or property, or Upon any highway designated by the Chief of Police and Selectmen at any time or for any period of time.” If there are no apparent violations, the vehicle will be allowed to remain there. Other situations, such as handicapped spaces and fire lanes, can result in separate categories and fines. Vehicles which are deemed illegally parked are subject to the listed fine and may be towed. Fines must be paid, or the violation can be appealed to a hearing with our parking clerk. Unpaid fines are subject to additional penalties. |
The Mass DOT - Registry of Motor Vehicles is also notified and will act, such as placing a non-renewable status on the vehicle registration. Always be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to ensure your vehicle is parked properly.
For those still seeking vaccination or COVID related information, it can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling The Board of Health 508-949-8036. During these challenging times, we, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community. Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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