In municipalities that officially observe the holiday, such as Boston, Massachusetts, Patriots' Day is considered a parking holiday. This designation means that standard parking meter fees are not collected. However, this status is accompanied by significant and widespread exceptions that motorists must be aware of.
The primary reason for the parking complexities on this day is the Boston Marathon. To accommodate the race and ensure public safety, extensive parking restrictions are implemented along the entire marathon route and in surrounding neighborhoods. These restrictions are temporary but are strictly enforced, often beginning the day before the event. Vehicles parked in these designated no-parking zones will be ticketed and towed. While meter payment is suspended city-wide, other regulations, such as residential permit parking rules, may still be in effect. Enforcement policies can vary between different cities and towns, like Cambridge, Brookline, or Somerville, that also observe the holiday.
For practical purposes, drivers should exercise extreme caution. It is essential to read all posted signs carefully, as temporary marathon-related restrictions override the general holiday meter status. The most reliable practice is to check the official transportation department website for the specific municipality for detailed information, maps, and schedules of the holiday parking bans. Relying solely on the knowledge that it is a "meter holiday" is insufficient and can lead to significant fines and vehicle towing.
