Private property towing is a regulated service that allows property owners to remove vehicles parked without permission on their land. This service is common in places like retail parking lots, apartment complexes, towing service, private businesses, and gated communities. In Marble Falls, private property towing helps keep parking spaces available for authorized users and ensures safety and access for everyone.
Private property towing is a legally regulated operation that allows property owners in Marble Falls to remove vehicles parked without permission, blocking access, or violating posted rules. This article provides a comprehensive overview of:
- What private property towing is
- Key Texas regulations
- Practical steps for property owners and drivers
- Best practices for operators
Rights, appeals, and local context
Legal Framework for Private Property Towing
Towing companies operating on private property must hold a special permit issued by the state. This ensures that tow operators meet standards for insurance, vehicle safety, and driver background checks. private property Without this permit, towing activities are illegal and can be challenged by vehicle owners.
Property owners must clearly post signs notifying drivers that unauthorized vehicles will be towed. These signs need to be of a specific size, clearly visible, and located at every entrance or perimeter of the property. Signs must include the name and contact information of the towing company to inform drivers where their vehicle will be taken.
The law also caps towing fees, including the cost to tow the vehicle and any additional fees for dropping the vehicle off after the tow has started. Tow companies must adhere to these fee limits to avoid overcharging customers.
After a vehicle is towed, the towing company must store the vehicle in a licensed facility. Within a few days, the vehicle owner must be notified in writing about the tow, the reason behind it, where the vehicle is stored, and how they can retrieve it. Vehicle owners have the right to request a hearing in court if they believe their vehicle was towed unlawfully, giving them a chance to dispute fees or improper towing.
Responsibilities of Property Owners in Marble Falls
Property owners in Marble Falls who want to use private property towing services must take several important steps to comply with the law and protect themselves from disputes. First, they need to ensure that clear, visible signage is posted around their property. These signs warn drivers that unauthorized vehicles will be towed and provide towing company contact information.
It is equally important to hire a towing company that holds the necessary permits and insurance. A licensed towing operator will follow all legal procedures, including proper notification and fee limits. Property owners should also communicate parking rules clearly to tenants, customers, or visitors, so everyone understands the parking restrictions and consequences of violations.
Using towing responsibly is crucial. Towing should only be done for clear violations such as parking without permission or blocking access. Abusing towing powers or targeting visitors unfairly can lead to legal troubles and damage to the property owner’s reputation.
Whether you’re a business owner, landlord, or HOA manager, here’s what you should do:
A. Get Proper Signage
- Install signs at every entrance and throughout the lot
- Use 18″×24″ boards with bold “TOW-AWAY ZONE” statements and include towing company info
- Ensure signage remains visible, legible, and undamaged otherwise, tows become contestable.
B. Choose a Licensed Towing Company
Confirm they:
- Have a valid TDLR “private property” permit
- Maintain required insurance
- Use compliant vehicles
- Demonstrate transparency in fees and procedures
C. Educate Tenants & Customers
- Outline parking rules, guest policies, and towing consequences in leases or policies
- Distribute handouts or flyers and post digital reminders
- Update notices about towing for events or maintenance windows
D. Use Tows Responsibly
- Restrict towing to clear violations and no shade or improper use of towing powers
- Be mindful: predatory towing targeting visitors or short‑term parkers can lead to legal disputes, reputational harm, and unpaid fees
Guidelines for Towing Companies Serving Marble Falls
Towing companies working on private property must maintain all required licenses and insurance coverage. They are responsible for ensuring their client properties have proper signage, that vehicles are towed following the law, and that all fees charged are within regulated limits.
When a vehicle is towed, the company must notify law enforcement as required and send written notice to the vehicle owner within the designated time frame. Providing transparent billing and accepting multiple payment methods helps reduce conflict with vehicle owners.
Ethical behavior is essential. Tow operators should avoid predatory towing practices, respond respectfully to complaints or appeals, and comply with any court-ordered refunds or penalties.
If your vehicle is towed from private property, here’s what you can do:
A. Validate Signage
- Check for proper and visible tow notice signs
- Document them with photos, ideally time stamped
B. Retrieve Your Vehicle
- Accept multiple payment methods and able pay the correct fee
- Present ID, registration, and any requested documentation.
C. Challenge the Tow (if necessary)
- File a “Request for Hearing” within 14 days in the relevant Justice of the Peace court
- Collect evidence: photos of missing signage, repair receipts, visitor permits, or lease agreement terms
- A successful hearing can result in full refund and legal costs.
D. Additional Steps
- File complaints with TDLR for unlawful practices
- Use consumer rights under Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act in exploitative towing cases
Local Context and Best Practices for Marble Falls
Marble Falls, with its unique Hill Country environment and growing tourism, benefits from well-managed private property towing services. Property owners should install durable, weather-resistant signs that remain visible even under strong sunlight. Informing visitors and tenants about parking rules through brochures or digital notices helps reduce misunderstandings and unauthorized parking.
Selecting a reputable towing company familiar with local regulations ensures smooth operations and legal compliance. Regular inspections of signage and clear communication with the community about towing policies build trust and prevent conflicts.
Several widely reported cases show Texans reclaiming fees or winning hearings:
- In Houston, a woman’s vehicle was removed during a power outage—legal, but disputed
- A Dallas-area case refunded $156 to a driver who photographed cars blocking visitor spaces without signage
- Killeen theater volunteers won partial damages after allegedly vague signage.
