Committee approves 12-hour towing limit for vehicles on private property

The Tennessee House Government Operations Committee made significant strides in addressing parking regulations during their meeting on March 24, 2025. A key decision was the approval of a bill that modifies towing regulations for vehicles parked on private property. The new legislation reduces the towing window from 48 hours to just 12 hours, allowing property owners to have illegally parked vehicles removed more swiftly.

The bill clarifies that if a vehicle is parked in a manner that creates a hazard or blocks access, property owners can have it towed immediately, regardless of the 12-hour timeframe. This change aims to empower property owners to manage parking issues more effectively, particularly in areas where illegal parking can disrupt access.

Concerns were raised during the discussion about the practicality of the 12-hour limit. Representative McKenzie highlighted potential issues for individuals who may need more time to retrieve their vehicles, such as those who run out of gas. However, the bill's sponsor reassured members that the provision is designed to address serious parking violations while still allowing for reasonable accommodations.

Additionally, an amendment was introduced to exempt residential property owners of multi-unit dwellings from a prohibition on booting vehicles. This amendment responds to complaints from property managers dealing with tourists parking inappropriately, blocking driveways and access points. The amendment aims to provide these property owners with a tool to manage parking more effectively, although some members argued that towing remains a more effective solution than booting.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the challenges posed by parking regulations in residential areas, particularly in tourist-heavy neighborhoods. As the bill moves forward, it is expected to enhance property owners' ability to maintain access and safety on their premises, while also addressing the concerns of residents regarding parking enforcement.