Nahant winter parking ban waiver program being called a success by town officials

NAHANT-It has been almost five years since the town implemented a winter parking ban waiver program and town officials are calling it a success.Police Lt. Thomas Hutton said the waiver program has been successful because it allows residents a place to park during non-snow emergencies, but it ensures streets are clear of vehicles during snow emergencies.The waiver program allows residents who do not have adequate off street parking to apply for a permit that, if approved, would allow them to park on the street during the winter months except during a snow emergency or snowfall.Nahant residents who do not have adequate off-street parking and would like a waiver must apply in person at the Nahant Police Department between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. In order to qualify for a waiver, all vehicles at the residence must be registered to that address. According to police, if there are two vehicles registered to an address that has only has one off-street parking space, the homeowner could qualify for one waiver.The winter parking ban will go into effect at midnight on Dec. 21 and continue through March 20. During that period there is no parking on the street from midnight until 6 a.m.Residents may apply in person for an on-street parking waiver at the Nahant police station. The $30 fee is non-refundable if the police deny the waiver.If a snow emergency is declared, all cars including those with winter parking waivers must be removed from the street. According to Hutton, any vehicle remaining on the street during a snow emergency is subject to being ticketed and towed.?In the interest of public safety the parking ban will be strictly enforced,” he said. “Every single car parked on the streets of Nahant during a snow emergency will be towed. For public safety reasons we needs cars off the street to clear snow during storms.”