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1. Where do I pay parking violations?

• Fines can be paid on the first floor of Town Hall (4 Boltwood Ave) at our Central Services Counter.
• Fines can be paid by using the Collector’s drop box, which is a secure box located on the Main Street side of Town Hall.
• Fines can be paid via the mail (addressed to Collector’s Office, 4 Boltwood Ave).
• Fines can be paid using our secure online bill paying feature (Pay Bills Online).

2. How do I get information on old outstanding parking violations?

Information on old outstanding parking violations can be obtained by calling Parking Administration at 413-259-3020.

3. Can I appeal a parking violation?

Yes, everyone has 21 days from date of ticket violation to either pay or appeal the parking violation. Appeals must be submitted to our office in writing and can be made via:

•   By mailing in a detailed statement on why the parking violation is being appealed (Parking Administration, 4 Boltwood Ave).
•   Using our online Parking Ticket Appeal form here.
•   By email (parking@amherstma.gov) including a detailed statement on why the parking violation is being appealed. 

Parking Appeals cannot be made via the telephone. 

4. What happens if I don’t pay or appeal a parking violation within the twenty one (21) days?

Per Massachusetts Law Chapter 90, section 20A-20E, all tickets must be paid within 21 days. A $15.00 late fee is added on the 22nd day. If your ticket remains unpaid, your license and/or registration may be marked for nonrenewal with the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

5. My vehicle was towed last night; who do I contact in order to find out where my car is?

Contact the Amherst Police Department at (413) 259-3000.

6. Is long-term parking available in the center of Town?

Long-term parking (8 hours) is available in the north side of the North Pleasant Street lot. This lot is enforced from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

4-hour parking available in most municipal lots. See the Parking Maps page for more details.

7. Are permits available for those who live or work in Downtown Amherst?

Yes, permits are available for those who live or work in Downtown Amherst. Permits are available for purchase (permits are $25). If you are interested in obtaining a parking permit, please visit our Permit Parking page for more information. 

Permitted Parking is marked Downtown Amherst by blue signs. Permit season runs from September 1st - May 31st.  

8. How can I be notified if there is a parking ban in effect?

A parking ban may be due to inclement weather and prohibits most on street parking.  There is a blue light that flashes at intersections closest to the center of town to indicate a ban is in effect. Notification would be publicized on the Town home page, and a news flash through the Parking Reminder Notify-Me (click the link to sign up for Notify Me Alerts) that serves residents and guests who have signed up. Information on where to safely park will be included and a follow up alert once the ban has been lifted. 

For questions, please reach out to Parking Administration at 413-259-3020.