In Massachusetts, the use of colored lights on vehicles is regulated by state laws to ensure public safety and proper identification of authorized emergency and service vehicles. Below is an overview of the authorized light colors for various vehicle types:
1. Law Enforcement Vehicles:
- Blue Lights: Official police vehicles are permitted to display flashing, rotating, or oscillating blue lights. Additionally, police vehicles may display red lights in the opposite direction of travel.
2. Fire Department Vehicles:
- Red Lights: Fire apparatus and vehicles operated by fire department officials, such as forest wardens, deputy forest wardens, chiefs or deputy chiefs of municipal fire departments, chaplains of municipal fire departments, and members of a fire department, including call members, may display flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights when responding to emergencies.
- Blue Lights: Fire apparatus may display blue lights in the opposite direction of travel.
3. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Vehicles:
- Red Lights: Ambulances and emergency medical service vehicles may display flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights when responding to emergencies.
4. Private Vehicles of Certain Emergency Personnel:
- Red Lights: Privately owned vehicles operated by forest wardens, deputy forest wardens, chiefs or deputy chiefs of municipal fire departments, chaplains of municipal fire departments, members of a fire department, including call members, or members of an emergency medical service may display flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights when responding to emergencies. A permit from the Registrar of Motor Vehicles is required for such use.
5. Service Vehicles (e.g., Tow Trucks, Utility Vehicles):
- Amber Lights: Vehicles used for emergency or service purposes, such as those operated by auxiliary police, private security agencies, utility companies, and towing services, may display flashing, rotating, or oscillating amber lights. These lights are to be used when the vehicle is actually engaged in the performance of a service where the display of such lights would be in the best interest of public safety.
General Restrictions:
- Use of Colored Lights: No person shall mount or display any flashing, rotating, or oscillating light of any color other than amber, except blue and red lights as provided in M.G.L. c. 90, § 7E, unless by written permit of the Registrar.
- Permit Requirements: Certain uses of red and blue lights require a written permit from the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. The permit must be carried by the operator in an easily accessible place.
- Unauthorized Use: Unauthorized use of colored lights by non-designated vehicles is illegal and subject to penalties. The Registrar may order the removal of any unauthorized colored light upon written notice to the registrant.
Important Considerations:
- Right-of-Way to Emergency Vehicles: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to authorized emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights and sounding audible signals. Emergency vehicle operators must exercise caution and due regard for the safety of all persons and property.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
