What to know when Fall River declares a parking ban due to a snowstorm

FALL RIVER — With snow forecast for this weekend that means residents will start thinking about where they can — and can't — park if the city issues a parking ban.

The city issues parking bans to allow emergency vehicles, including police, fire and ambulances, clear access while allowing better access to plows for cleaner and safer streets.

Here’s how parking bans work in Fall River, in 60 seconds:

Where can I park during the parking ban?

Parking is only allowed on the north side of all streets that run east and west. Parking is only allowed on the west side of all streets that run north and south. In most cases, this means you can't park on the side of the street where fire hydrants are located.

Parking is not allowed within 20 feet of a corner to allow access for plows.

Unless it’s posted otherwise, parking is allowed on both sides of any street divided by a traffic median — but not against the median.

Will my car be towed right away if I break the rules?

Traffic enforcement officers may issue parking tickets instead — a sign to move your car. If you get a ticket, you have 21 days to either pay it or appeal it to avoid additional fines.

What if my car gets towed?

If your vehicle violates the parking ban and must be towed to clear streets for plows or emergency vehicles, call the Fall River Police Department at 508-324-2801 to find out where your vehicle was towed to.

You must pay all fees to the tow company before they release your vehicle.

Dan Medeiros can be reached at dmedeiros@heraldnews.com. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Herald News today.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: Fall River snowstorm parking bans explained