A Private Property Towing Service refers to a towing service authorized to remove vehicles from privately-owned property, such as parking lots, apartment complexes, or commercial areas. The property owner or manager typically contracts with the towing company to enforce parking regulations and ensure that only authorized vehicles park on the premises. Here’s how it generally works:
Key Features:
- Contracted by Property Owner/Manager: The towing service operates under a legal agreement with the property owner or management company, giving them the authority to tow vehicles from the premises.
- Signage: Legally, signage must be posted around the private property, warning drivers about the towing policy. The signs must include contact information for the towing service and indicate under what circumstances vehicles may be towed (e.g., no parking zones, fire lanes, unauthorized parking).
- Towing Regulations: Different states and municipalities have specific laws regarding private property towing. These may include how soon a vehicle can be towed, fees associated with towing, and rights of vehicle owners.
- Reasons for Towing:
- Parking in a fire lane.
- Blocking entrances or exits.
- Parking without a permit in a restricted area.
- Abandoned or inoperable vehicles left for a certain period.
- Parking in handicap spaces without a proper tag.
- Fees and Charges: The vehicle owner is usually responsible for paying the towing and storage fees to retrieve their vehicle. These fees are often regulated by local authorities to prevent excessive charges.
- Release of Vehicle: Once a vehicle is towed, the owner can usually contact the towing company, pay the necessary fees, and retrieve the vehicle. Some areas require that the towing company be available to release the vehicle at certain hours.
- Disputes and Legal Recourse: If a vehicle owner believes their car was towed unjustly, they may be able to dispute the tow through local authorities or courts. Many jurisdictions have procedures for resolving towing disputes.