Southborough, MA Public Conduct: Loitering Rules (2026)

Chapter 117 is a single section, § 117-1, adopted as Art. X, Sec. 5 of the 1983 Code. It has two parts. The first bars loitering or continuing to stand on any sidewalk or public place in the Town so as to obstruct the passage of other persons, to impede them, or in any manner annoy them. That clause turns on the effect of the standing, not on how long it lasts. The second part bars any person in a street or way from standing or loitering after being directed by a police officer to move on. That clause turns on the officer's direction.

The chapter's general references point to related bylaws: Chapter 118 (registered sex offender restrictions), Chapter 152 (streets and sidewalks) and Chapter 195 (pedestrians). Chapter 195 adds § 195-7, which says no person shall stand in a roadway for the purpose of soliciting a ride, employment or business from the operator or occupant of any vehicle without the written permission of the board or officer having control of that roadway or highway. Section 195-8 has all officers of the Town enforce the pedestrian regulations, and § 195-10 punishes violations of the provisions on the use of ways by pedestrians as provided in MGL c. 90, § 18A. Chapter 131, § 131-1 separately bars indecent and disorderly conduct, and profane, indecent, obscene or insulting language, in any public way or place or near any dwelling house.