Boston city parks are closed from dusk to dawn unless otherwise posted. The Parks and Recreation Department enforces park hours. Boston Common and the Public Garden have specific closing times. Unauthorized presence in parks after hours may result in trespass charges.
Boston's Parks and Recreation Department establishes hours for the city's park system. Most neighborhood parks are open from dawn to dusk unless specific hours are posted. Boston Common is open from dawn to 11:30 PM, and the Public Garden closes at dusk. Franklin Park and other large parks close at dusk. Athletic facilities and playgrounds typically close at 10 PM when lit, or at dusk when unlit. The Parks Department may extend hours for permitted events. After-hours presence in parks without authorization constitutes trespass. Boston Police Department patrols parks and may issue warnings or citations. The city's park rules also prohibit camping, sleeping, and storing personal belongings in parks overnight. The Esplanade along the Charles River is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and has separate hours (typically dawn to 11 PM). Special events with extended hours require Parks Department or DCR permits.
Unauthorized presence in parks after hours is a trespass violation under park regulations. First offense typically results in a warning. Repeat violations may result in fines or trespass charges under MGL c.266 §120. Camping in parks carries separate fines under park ordinances.
Boston, MA
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