See a pothole on Washington Street? Trash overflowing near a bus stop? A streetlight out on your walk home? You don’t have to wonder who to call. That’s what Boston 311 is for!
Boston 311 is the City of Boston’s free, non-emergency service, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It gives residents, businesses, and visitors a simple way to report neighborhood issues and request City services.
How to Report an Issue
There are several easy ways to contact Boston 311:
- Call: Dial 311 or 617-635-4500 from outside Boston.
- Online: Visit boston.gov/311.
- Mobile App: Download the free BOS:311 app.
Simply describe the issue, provide the location, and include a photo if possible. You’ll receive a case number that allows you to track your request.
What Can You Report?
Boston 311 handled more than 470,000 cases in 2025. Some of the most commonly reported issues include:
- Illegal Parking: Vehicles parked illegally or obstructing access.
- Street Cleaning: Litter, debris, and streets in need of attention.
- Trash Storage: Overflowing dumpsters, improperly stored trash, or bins left out illegally.
- Potholes: Damaged road surfaces that need repair.
- Streetlights: Lights that are out, flickering, or damaged.
- Rodent Activity: Rat sightings and evidence of rodents around sidewalks, yards, and trash areas.
Help Keep Brighton Clean and Safe
Rodent activity is a particular concern in urban neighborhoods like Brighton. Reporting sightings through 311 helps the City identify problem areas, monitor patterns, and direct resources where they are needed most.
Whether it’s a pothole in Oak Square, overflowing trash in Brighton Center, or a broken streetlight along Washington Street, reporting these issues helps improve our neighborhood for everyone.
Remember: Boston 311 is for non-emergencies only. If someone is in immediate danger or a crime is in progress, always call 911.
Small actions make a big difference. The next time you notice something that needs attention, take a moment to report it. Together, we can help keep Brighton a clean, safe, and welcoming place to live, work, shop, and visit.
Need help getting started? Download our one-page guide to reporting an issue through Boston 311.