Framingham, MA Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules (2026)

The City of Framingham's Traffic Rules and Orders, City Code Chapter 550, define what makes a curb marking official rather than just paint on a curb. Under § 550-2, a marking only qualifies as 'CURB MARKING, OFFICIAL' when its painting has been authorized by the Traffic Commission and has received written approval from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. That two-step sign-off means a resident, business or contractor cannot legally paint a curb to reserve it, mark a no-parking zone, or create a private loading area without Traffic Commission action and state approval.

Section 550-8 backs that definition with a direct prohibition: no person may place, maintain or display any unofficial device, sign, signal, or curb or street marking that purports to be, imitates or resembles an official one. The Chief of Police is empowered to remove any such unauthorized marking without giving notice to the person responsible, so a homeowner who paints a curb without Traffic Commission authorization risks having the paint removed at the City's discretion rather than their own timing. Separate enforcement applies to tampering with markings the City has already installed.

Section 550-10 makes it a punishable offense to willfully deface, injure, move, obstruct or interfere with any traffic sign, signal, marking or device, carrying a fine of up to $20 for each offense. Framingham Police officers, authorized under § 550-3 to enforce the Traffic Rules and Orders generally, handle both unauthorized-marking removal and interference complaints. Anyone who wants a curb legitimately marked, for a driveway apron, accessible space or loading area, must petition the Traffic Commission rather than paint it themselves.