Illegal parking is more than just an inconvenience—it disrupts your business, deters customers, and creates safety risks. If you’re a business owner dealing with illegally parked cars, handling the situation quickly is key. This guide explains how to report an illegally parked car, protect your business, and comply with local laws.
Why Reporting Illegally Parked Cars Is Crucial for Businesses
Illegally parked cars do more than just look bad; they disrupt operations and frustrate customers. For example, if a customer cannot find a parking space because of an unauthorized vehicle, they may leave and take their business elsewhere. Additionally, illegally parked cars block essential access points, such as fire lanes or loading docks. When these areas are obstructed, your business could face safety hazards and legal risks.
By reporting and removing these vehicles promptly, you ensure your property remains safe and accessible.
Understanding Local Laws and Regulations for Illegally Parked Cars
Before reporting a car, make sure you understand local parking and towing laws. These regulations differ depending on your city, county, or state, so familiarize yourself with them to avoid complications.
For example, many areas require private property owners to post clear signs stating unauthorized vehicles will be towed. These signs must meet specific size and placement requirements, and they should include the towing company’s contact information. Moreover, some regions require a waiting period before a car can be towed.
Document the Violation Before Reporting
Once you confirm a car is illegally parked and you’re within your rights to report it, the next step is documentation. Proper documentation protects you from disputes that may arise after the tow.
Here’s how to document the violation:
- Take photos: Capture images of the vehicle from multiple angles, showing the license plate and any signs or structures indicating why it’s parked illegally.
- Note details: Write down the car’s make, model, and color. Also, record the exact time and date you noticed the vehicle.
- Collect witness statements: If possible, speak to employees or witnesses who may have seen the car arrive.
These steps ensure that if the vehicle owner contests the tow, you will have the necessary evidence.
How to Contact Authorities or a Towing Company
Now that you’ve documented the situation, it’s time to report the illegally parked car. The process depends on whether the car is on public or private property.
- For public property: If the car is parked on a public street or public space, contact local parking enforcement or the police. Many cities have hotlines or online systems where you can report these violations. Be ready to provide details such as the car’s location and your documentation.
- For private property: If the car is on your business’s property, you’ll need to contact a towing company. Here’s what to do:
- Check signage: Make sure you have the required signs warning about towing for illegal parking.
- Call a towing company: Look for a licensed towing company that operates in your area. Provide them with details such as the car’s location and why it needs towing.
- Follow the law: Ensure the towing company complies with local regulations, including any required wait times or notifications.
Having a relationship with a towing company ahead of time can ensure quicker response times when dealing with future parking violations.
What Happens After Reporting
Once you report the illegally parked car, the issue is usually resolved quickly.
- Parking enforcement: If reported to parking enforcement, an officer will visit the site, confirm the violation, and issue a ticket. In some cases, the car will be towed immediately.
- Towing company: If you called a towing company, they will arrive on-site, hook up the car, and take it to an impound lot. The vehicle owner must then pay towing and storage fees to retrieve their car.
Prevent Future Parking Violations
To reduce the likelihood of future parking violations, consider these proactive measures:
- Install proper signage: Ensure your signs clearly indicate where parking is allowed and the consequences of illegal parking.
- Communicate policies: Inform employees and customers about your parking rules. Clear communication reduces the chances of misunderstandings.
- Monitor parking areas: Regularly check for unauthorized vehicles. Alternatively, you can hire security or parking enforcement services to manage your lot.
Taking these steps helps your business maintain smooth operations and avoids disruptions caused by illegal parking.
