Marblehead Lifts Overnight Parking Ban, Issues Snow Policy

MARBLEHEAD, MA —Marblehead visitors and residents can now park on the street overnight, but must be prepared to move their vehicles in case of snow, after the Board of Selectmen officially suspended the bylaw prohibiting overnight parking and instituted a trial snow emergency policy.

The plan, which was approved at Marblehead town meeting earlier this month, is being putting in place in a trial basis for one year.

Declared snow emergencies will prohibit on-street parking starting at midnight on the day of anticipated snow. Parking will be allowed at 7 a.m. the next morning if conditions permit.

Overnight parking will be extended for each day a snow emergency is in place.

"Many factors will be considered before the town declares a snow emergency including air and road temperatures, weather forecasts and snow accumulation," town officials said. "The town will declare a snow emergency when snowfall accumulation is forecast to be 2 inches or over, but other factors could contribute to the declaration of a snow emergency even if snow accumulation is expected to be less than 2 inches.

"The town will endeavor to provide as much notice as possible to residents when a snow emergency is declared."

Those parked on street in violation of a snow order will be subject to ticket and towing in an manner of priority for snow removal. Towed cars will be brought to the transfer station.

Notification of snow emergencies will be made through the town website, automatic notification system, social media, MHTV and other outlets.

Officials said the trial period can change based on determination of the police chief, fire chief, town administrator, Department of Public Works that it is "negatively impacting public health and safety."

Related Patch Coverage: Marblehead Nixes Winter Parking Ban, Boosts Snow Emergency Fines