The City of Newburyport will declare a snow emergency and parking ban when snow fall predictions for the area are at least 3 inches. Here’s a breakdown on everything you need to know when the city declares a snow emergency. And with snow, comes the issue of snow removal and resident responsibilities. Below are tips to keep you fine free and shoveled out when there’s snow fall in Newburyport.

How to Know if There’s a Parking Ban:

• Look for the “Blue Lights”, flashing blue emergency beacons located at major intersections. These lights are turned on 6-7 hours in advance of the ban. When the lights are shut off, the parking ban has ended.
• Call the Department of Public Services at 978-463-0472 or the Snow Emergency Information Line at 978-465-4464 ext. 1797.
• The ban will be broadcast on Cable Access, WBZ radio and the city’s website homepage.
• Sign up for email alerts by visiting the city’s website and selecting emergency alerts from the Department of Public Services

Where to Park During a Ban:

During a snow emergency all cars must be moved from public streets. Those that are not moved are at risk of being towed at the owner’s expense if the car directly affects snow removal, or fined a $50 ticket.

Residents may move their cars to any of these alternative parking locations during a snow emergency:

Green Street Municipal Lot
Cashman Park, (off Merrimac Street)
Cushing Park (off Washington Street)
Waterfront Trust Lot
NRA West Lot
NRA East Lot (Behind the Custom House)
Prince Place Lot (corner of Hales Court and Prince Place)
State Street Lot (corner of Harris Street and State Street)

Please Note: All vehicles must be moved from these lots within 12 hours following the end of the parking ban or they will be towed/ticketed.

Garage: The parking garage is not available for snow emergency parking, however it will remain open for garage permit holders and paying customers.

Snow Removal Information:

• It may take several hours for snowplows to make it to your street, regardless of snow emergency status, but if you do think that your area has been neglected call 978-465-4464 to put in a snow removal request.
• Property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from sidewalks. This should be done within six hours after the snow stops if daytime or before noon if the snow stops during the night. Much like the parking ban, a fine of $50 can be issued for failure to shovel your sidewalk.
• If you are able to help those in need of shoveling, contact the Council on Aging at 978-462-8650 or rrobillard@cityofnewburyport.com.

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