Dallas drivers with multiple unpaid parking tickets will soon face a new enforcement measure that could temporarily block them from using their vehicles.
Starting on August 24, the city will begin placing self-release windshield immobilizers, commonly known as “barnacles,” on vehicles with three or more delinquent parking citations accumulated during the same calendar year.
How Dallas’ Barnacle Program Works
When a vehicle qualifies for the program, the city will place a notice on the windshield explaining why officials installed the immobilizer and how the driver can release it.
The device attaches to the windshield and blocks the driver’s view, making the vehicle unsafe to operate until the driver removes the immobilizer.
Drivers must pay their outstanding parking citations and a $100 immobilization fee before they can release the device. Payment plans will also be available, according to city information.
Drivers must also authorize a refundable $300 credit card hold to cover the cost of an unreturned immobilizer.
Once the city processes payment, the driver will receive a unique code to unlock and remove the device. Drivers who cannot use the QR code can pay online or by phone.
Drivers Have 24 Hours To Remove Device
Once drivers release the barnacle, they must return it to a designated drop box at the Oak Cliff Municipal Center, located at 320 E. Jefferson Blvd.
The city typically releases the $300 credit card hold within three business days after drivers return the immobilizer.
Drivers must remove the device within 24 hours after the city places it on their vehicle. Officials may tow vehicles that remain immobilized after that period.
Dallas has not released a list of streets where officials will initially deploy the devices.
Program Intended as Alternative to Towing
Dallas officials say the immobilizer program will provide drivers with a faster and more convenient alternative to towing.
“When possible, the City will use a vehicle immobilizer rather than towing, allowing motorists to avoid locating their vehicle at an impound facility and incurring additional towing and storage fees,” Assistant City Manager Dev Rastogi wrote in a city memo.
Officials may still tow vehicles with damaged or unusually shaped windshields that prevent workers from properly attaching the immobilizer.
Dallas says the program will reduce towing, help drivers regain access to their vehicles more quickly, and improve compliance with parking regulations.
Dallas Parking Changes Continue
The new immobilizer program comes as Dallas also prepares to increase some on-street parking rates.
Beginning on September 1, parking rates will increase in downtown Dallas and Deep Ellum, with meters along the Main Street corridor operating until midnight.
Drivers can continue to pay parking citations through the city’s parking payment portal or by phone.
