New Bedford Police Cracks Down on Snow Parking Savers

After six years living in New Bedford, I’ve learned one thing about winter here: when a big snowstorm hits, the parking drama isn’t far behind. Let’s be honest, this last storm was definitely a doozy, and the parking ban saw over $100,000 in fines issued.

Like clockwork, once the shovels come out, so do the “parking savers.” I’m talking traffic cones, folding chairs, trash barrels, lamps; I've even seen old ripped-up recliners. If someone spent hours digging out a spot, they’re going to try to protect it.

Here’s the cold, hard truth, though: nobody owns those spaces. The road is public, parking is first-come, first-served, and yes, apparently there are actual fines tied to saving spots.

New Bedford's Parking-Saver Fines I Didn’t Know About

According to a recent New Bedford Police reminder posted on the department's Facebook page, putting objects in the street to reserve parking isn’t permitted. Beyond just being annoying, it can create safety hazards for drivers, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles, and it can cost you.

READ MORE: New Bedford Snow Removal Rules and Fines

Leaving items in the roadway can fall under littering, which carries up to a $300 fine, or improper placement of receptacles, which can mean a $100 fine.

A City Reality After Storms

Look, I get it, shoveling out a space is exhausting. Nobody wants to lose that hard work. But city living comes with shared streets, shared challenges, and sometimes shared frustration.

If anything, this was just one of those “learn something new every day” moments for me. So before putting that chair or cone out next time, just know it might not save your spot – but it could definitely cost you.