The Chief of Police for the Houston Police Department recommends that City Council approve an Ordinance amending Divisions 1 and 2, Article III of Chapter 8 of the City of Houston Code of Ordinances relating to auto wreckers.
As background, the Houston Police Department’s Auto Dealers Detail is responsible for regulating and licensing all wrecker service providers in the City of Houston. The City of Houston Code of Ordinances, Section 8-126 authorizes the Chief of Police to execute agreements for police authorized tows by tow operators. Tow companies are required to have a Police Authorized Tow Service Agreement (PATSA) in place with the City of Houston to establish standards for each wrecker service performing police authorized tows in the City of Houston. Establishing standards improve traffic incident management, scene clearance and reduce safety risks to our citizens and first responders.
The purpose of the proposed amendments is to reflect current law and technology, updated towing industry standards, and the current practices of the Auto Dealers Detail Unit. Some of the changes include definitions, insurance language, violations, suspension of license, background checks, collection of city release fee and tow operator applications. The amendment also updates Chapter 8 to comply with HB 914 (and Section 2308.354(a)(3) of the Texas Occupations Code) which authorizes an employee designated by the City of Houston to request the removal and storage of illegally parked vehicles or abandoned vehicles without a peace officer’s presence.
HPD is also proposing three new fees listed below. Auto Dealers Detail coordinated with City Finance and City Legal in conducting a fee study to determine the rate and reasonableness for each fee.
- Replacement of lost/stolen wrecker medallions ($118.01): Each licensed wrecker truck is issued a wrecker medallion by ADD. Anytime a medallion is lost/stolen, a police report is generated, and the wrecker truck must be inspected again prior to issuance of a replacement medallion. This fee applies to both PATSA and private property wreckers.
The Houston Police Department presented these proposed ordinance changes to the Public Safety & Homeland Security committee on June 17, 2021.
Fiscal Note:
Revenues for this item are not included in the FY2022 Adopted Budget. Therefore, a Fiscal Note is required as stated in the Financial Policies.
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Troy Finner
Chief of Police