Moving Season Reminders & Resources for Somerville Residents

September 1 is approaching, which means moving season is upon us. If you’re getting ready to move, here are some reminders and resources to help make the process go smoothly: 

Get a Permit for Your Moving Van 
You can apply for a moving van permit and pay to reserve a parking spot before you move. Permits cost $40 per day for up to three days, and parking signs cost $5. If there’s a meter, you’ll need to pay an additional $35 per day to reserve the spot.

Bring your completed application to the Parking Department for immediate processing, or mail it to 133 Holland St. If you mail in your application, you can pick up the permit within 10 business days. Find the permit application and instructions at somervillema.gov/parking. 
 

Get Rid of Trash and Recycling 
You’ll probably have a lot of trash to get rid of after unpacking. Thankfully, most of your trash is probably fine for curbside pickup. Put moving boxes out with your recycling in 3’x3’ pieces tied together in a bundle. To recycle a mattress, contact 311 (617-666-3311 from outside of Somerville) and schedule pickup. Find out how to get rid of any item using the Waste Wizard at somervillema.gov/wastewizard, or call 311.
 

Get a Permit for Your Personal Vehicle and for Your Visitors
If you'll be keeping a car in Somerville, you'll need a resident parking permit. Apply online, or bring in or mail your completed application to the Parking Department (133 Holland St.) with a copy of your vehicle registration showing that your car is registered in Massachusetts and garaged under the Somerville address. You will also need proof of residency, like a utility bill or bank statement.

If you need to update your vehicle registration or are waiting for proof of residency, you can apply for a 30-day temporary parking permit free of charge. Bring your current registration and a copy of your signed lease/rental agreement. You can also apply for a two-day ($20) or three-day ($40) visitor parking permit with proof of residency. For all parking permit applications and instructions, go to somervillema.gov/parking. 
 

Check Street Signs to Avoid Parking Tickets 
The City of Somerville regularly cleans the streets from April to December. Check posted street signage to confirm when parking restrictions are in effect.
 

Update Your Voter Registration 
Update your voter registration with your new address or register for the first time at somervillema.gov/elections. To register by mail, call 617-625-6600 x4200 during normal business hours to request a voter registration form.
 

Update Your City Alert Registration
If you’re new to Somerville, sign up to receive City alerts by phone, text, or email at somervillema.gov/alerts. We’ll send you important information like severe weather warnings, water interruptions, and parking emergencies. If you’re already registered, you can also update your address or unsubscribe.
 

For more moving information and resources all in one place, go to somervillema.gov/moving.