By : Subuk Hasnain
Wed, 01/14/2015 - 4:42pm
The City Council Committee on License and Consumer Protection passed an ordinance on Wednesday intended to deter towing companies from illegally relocating vehicles parked on private property.
The ordinance requires towing companies to take at least one picture of unauthorized vehicles parked on private property prior to towing those vehicles. Towing companies would have to make those photographs available to vehicle owners. The photographs will have to clearly show the date and the time, the entire vehicle, the location and the license plate.
Additionally, the ordinance prevents towing companies from charging vehicle owners any fees beyond the amounts indicated on the signs at the property from which the car was towed.
“This is a public safety measure,” said Julia Ellis, chief council and director of policy for the City Clerk’s Office. Ellis said the ordinance was drafted after a review of four Chicago towing companies’ practices revealed over 150 incidents of illegal towing activity and overcharging. Backers of the ordinance hope it will help to ensure the welfare and safety of individuals who might otherwise be stranded in dangerous locations or at odd times due to improper towing practices.
Alderman Willie Cochran (20th), one of the legislation’s sponsors, said he was inspired to take action after receiving a high volume of complaints from individuals “victimized by towing companies.” He noted that many consumers end up paying unnecessary fees out of frustration because they are not familiar with how to go about challenging towing companies actions.
“The photographs or even videos that will be taken can allow the consumer to challenge the situation in a much better way,” he said.
During Wednesday’s discussion, several aldermen expressed a desire for additional action to further deter towing companies from engaging in improper activities. One issue that was mentioned as a possible subject for future review was the damage done to the bottom of cars during the towing process.
“This is just step one that we’ve taken when it comes to this industry,” said Cochran.
License Committee members also passed an ordinance on Wednesday prohibiting the establishment of valet-loading zones in "no parking" tow zones.
Alderman Brendan Reilly (42nd), sponsor of the ordinance, said the tow zones help ensure public safety and improve traffic flow. The proposed regulations would require valet loading zones to be “at least 25 feet in length immediately adjacent to its premises,” according to the ordinance.
Members of the full City Council will consider both measures next Wednesday.
This article was originally published on the Daily Whale website in 2015.