Philly's New Towing Law Goes Into Effect Wednesday

A new law in Philadelphia that aims to curb predatory towing practices goes into effect Tuesday, according to Mayor Jim Kenney's office.

The law prevents towing operators from hooking or towing any vehicle from private lots and driveways prior to that vehicle being ticketed by any of the city’s law enforcement agencies.

Philadelphia Police Department will begin enforcing this law, which Kenney signed lat week, Wednesday, Feb. 1.

The new law puts other agencies such as the Philadelphia Parking Authority, university police, and SEPTA are coordinating with Philadelphia Police on ticketing efforts, the mayor's office said.

Previously, the law only allowed for the police department to ticket vehicles.

“Comprehensive towing reform will help ensure that all Philadelphians are protected from predatory practices and that business on our city streets is conducted legally,” said Councilwoman Quiñones Sánchez, who sponsored the law. “I would like to thank Mayor Kenney, the Philadelphia Police Department, the Philadelphia Parking Authority, and all of our law enforcement partners for their support and hard work in implementing this critical step.”

“I’m hopeful this legislation will address predatory towing practices in Philadelphia,” Kenney said. “My sincerest thanks to Councilwoman Quiñones Sánchez for her passionate advocacy on this issue, and to PPD and L&I for helping to shape this legislation’s implementation strategy.”

Sánchez facilitated meetings from involved parties to ensure the new law is enacted quickly and effectively, Kenney's office said.

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