HF1574

This Minnesota House bill (H.F. No. 1574), authored by Representative Frazier, proposes modifications to laws governing towing authority for motor vehicles. It was first read and referred to the Committee on Transportation Finance and Policy.

Key Provisions:

1. Definition of "Properly Posted" (Sec. 1, Subd. 11a)

   • A properly posted sign must:
     1. Be conspicuously placed for drivers to notice.
     2. Remain visible and unobstructed (e.g., free of snow).
     3. Indicate that unauthorized vehicles may be towed and under what circumstances.
     4. Identify the towing company and where towed vehicles will be taken.

2. Towing from Private Property (Sec. 2, Subd. 5)

   • Clarifies that private property owners retain the right to remove unauthorized vehicles in accordance with existing state laws.

3. Conditions for Towing Unauthorized Vehicles (Sec. 3, Subd. 2)

   • A vehicle may be impounded if left unattended in certain locations for specified timeframes.
     
     • Public Property:
       
     • On a highway (if tagged by peace officer): 4 hours.
       
     • Posing a traffic hazard: immediately.
       
     • On government-owned parking facilities (if properly posted): 4 hours.
       
     • Private Property:
       
     • Single-family or duplex residential property: immediately.
       
     • Nonresidential property (properly posted): immediately.
       
     • Nonresidential, not posted: 24 hours.
       
     • Auto repair/service establishments: 5 business days after notification to the owner.
       
     • Any properly posted residential property: immediately.
       

4. New Limitations on Vehicle Towing (Sec. 4, Subd. 3)

   • Tow companies may remove vehicles from private property only if:
     
     1. The property owner or designee identifies the vehicle (make, model, license plate).
        
     2. They specifically authorize the impoundment of that vehicle.

Purpose:

This bill aims to enhance clarity and fairness in vehicle towing regulations, ensuring vehicles are removed only when properly authorized while protecting property owners' rights.