The Great Boston Parking Caper: Can You Handicap Park Like a Superhero?
Ah, Boston. City of history, chowder, and let's not forget, the never-ending quest for a decent parking spot. But fear not, fellow citizen with a disability placard, for within these lines lies the key to navigating the concrete jungle like a parking pro.
The Lowdown on Handicap Parking in Beantown
So, can you just waltz into any ol' spot and slap on your placard like a superhero landing beacon? Hold your horses (or should we say, motorized wheelchairs)! Here's the need-to-know:
- Designated Handicap Zones: Boston's got your back (literally) with marked On-Street Accessible Parking (OSAP) spaces. Look for the signs that say "HP/DV Parking" – that's your green light. These are fair game for any vehicle with a valid disability placard or license plate from Massachusetts, any US state, or even Canada! Consider it a parking party with an international guest list.
- Resident Accessible Parking Spaces (RAPS): These are special spots reserved for residents with disabilities in neighborhoods with Resident Only Parking. Think of it as VIP parking for locals with a placard. The good news? You can park here with a placard from anywhere, even if you're not a resident.
- But Wait, There's More! Just because you have a placard doesn't mean you're exempt from the laws of the jungle (or, you know, regular parking regulations). Don't forget about things like street cleaning or resident-only parking restrictions. Even superheroes gotta follow the rules!
Remember: Always display your placard properly – hanging from the rearview mirror is the way to go.
Pro-Tips for the Placard Patrol
- Be an Early Bird: Street parking in Boston is a competitive sport. Get there early to snag the best OSAP spots.
- There's an App for That: Download the City of Boston's handy app to find a map of all the OSAP locations. Knowledge is power, my friend.
- Respect the Space: These spots are there for a reason. Don't be a villain and park illegally in a handicap zone.
Frequently Asked Parking Questions for the Disabled Driver
How to find OSAP locations? Download the City of Boston's app or visit
How to get a handicap placard in Massachusetts? Head over to the RMV website for all the info:
How long can I park in an OSAP space? The time limit depends on the posted signs. Always be sure to check!
Can I park in a Resident Only spot with a handicap placard? In neighborhoods with Resident Only Parking, you can park in an OSAP space with a placard from anywhere. But for regular spots, you'll also need a resident sticker.
How do I report misuse of a handicap parking space? You can contact the Boston Transportation Department.
So there you have it! With a little knowledge and these handy tips, you'll be navigating the Boston parking scene like a champ. Remember, courtesy is key, and a little humor never hurts (especially when parallel parking on a narrow street). Now get out there and conquer those concrete canyons!
