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Private Parking Lot "Boot" Subject at Dallas City Hall DALLAS, TX (KERA) - Dallas City Council members are back from spring break and dealing with a variety of issues. KERA's BJ Austin says one of them sets some ground rules for private parking lot operators who are "booting" cars for non payment.


There is currently no state or city regulation for "when and how" operators of private parking lots may BOOT a car for non payment, or other infraction. That's using the immobilizing device on a wheel of the vehicle. Some private parking lots have begun the practice. Houston recently passed regulations in response to citizen complaints. Dallas is considering a permit requirement for operators to "boot" a car. Maximum fine to remove the boot would be 100 dollars, with credit cards accepted, 24/7 boot removal, boot removal within an hour of getting the call. Booting would also be allowed only on lots where a patron is issued a receipt to be displayed on the dash of the parked car. Parking lot operators want to continue to use slot boxes with video evidence to support enforcement; and wants "booting" for retail, office or other uses with free parking. A council vote is expected in May.
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