Fall River Board considers easing towing restrictions for auto body repair facility

The Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss a petition from local business owner Paulo Cavallo, who seeks to amend a 2014 decision that restricts the towing of vehicles at his auto body repair and towing storage facility. Currently, the facility is limited to towing operations from Monday through Saturday, between 6 AM and 10 PM. Cavallo is requesting the removal of this time restriction to allow towing at any hour, including Sundays.

Attorney Gregory Brann, representing Cavallo, emphasized that the request is aimed at ensuring compliance with city regulations while allowing for operational flexibility. He noted that Cavallo has owned the property for four years without any issues and has recently been added to the city’s towing list. The attorney explained that the current restriction creates complications, as Cavallo could receive a call to tow a vehicle on a Sunday but would be unable to store it on his property until Monday morning.

The property is situated in the Central Business District, surrounded by various commercial establishments, which Brann argued minimizes the potential impact on nearby residents. He highlighted that the closest residential building is located several blocks away, suggesting that the proposed change would not disrupt the neighborhood.

Board members engaged in discussions regarding the implications of allowing 24/7 towing operations, particularly concerning the storage of unregistered vehicles. Concerns were raised about ensuring that the facility does not become a junkyard, with suggestions that any new conditions could be imposed to prevent this.

After hearing from Brann and discussing the matter, the board opened the floor to public comments. No opposition was voiced, and the board members acknowledged that they were only being asked to remove one specific condition from the original variance.

The board is expected to deliberate further on the petition, considering both the operational needs of Cavallo's business and the potential impact on the community. The outcome of this request could set a precedent for similar businesses in the area seeking to adjust their operational hours.