Allentown Takes Aim at Predatory Towing

From Santo Napoli:  The Allentown City Council voted last Wednesday night to adopt a new ordinance aimed at protecting residents and visitors from predatory towing practices on private property. The measure adds critical procedures to the city’s administrative code and establishes a uniform framework to ensure fair, transparent, and legal towing operations. The ordinance comes in response to a growing number of complaints from residents who had their vehicles towed from private property and were charged excessive, cash-only fees ranging from $400 to $700—often with little to no information on how to retrieve their cars.

Councilmember Santo Napoli, who sponsored the ordinance, said he was prompted to act after conversations with police and multiple residents impacted by these practices.

“The manner in which these vehicles were towed caught my attention,” Napoli said. “People were forced to pay hundreds of dollars in cash with no clear information or recourse. That’s simply unacceptable.”

Napoli added that such predatory fees can have serious ripple effects on individuals and families already facing financial strain. “A surprise $600 expense can push someone into late rent, missed mortgage payments, or even the risk of eviction. For those living paycheck to paycheck, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can be a devastating setback.”

The ordinance focuses on four key areas:

1. Signage - Private properties must display clearly visible towing signs (minimum 12” x 18”) that include the name and phone number of the towing company.

2. Tow Company Standards - Tow operators must be registered with the city, maintain liability insurance of at least $1 million, and be in good standing with all city ordinances. Tow trucks must also display the company name and phone number, and report all tows to the Allentown Police Department within 30 minutes.

3. Reasonable Fees - Towing companies must charge reasonable rates consistent with Pennsylvania law.

4. Decoupling - If a vehicle owner arrives before their car is removed, the tow truck operator must release the vehicle immediately and may charge a decoupling fee no greater than half the towing cost.

Violators—tow operators or private property owners—face penalties of $500 per violation or the total amount charged to the vehicle owner, whichever is greater.

"I commend City Council for passing this much-needed legislation, and I especially thank Councilperson Santo Napoli, Detective Luiz Garcia of the Allentown Police Department, and members of the community for their collaboration in addressing the issue of predatory towing,” said Chief Charles Roca. “This ordinance sends a clear message: these exploitative practices will not be tolerated in the City of Allentown, and those engaging in them will be held accountable. The new regulations provide clear expectations and transparency for both towers and residents, helping ensure a fair and consistent process for all."

Napoli also acknowledged the numerous partners involved in shaping the ordinance, including Council Vice President Cynthia Mota and City Clerk Michael Hanlon.

“I’m thankful for the collaboration and support across departments,” Napoli said. “This is a win for transparency, fairness, and the people of Allentown.”

Residents and visitors who believe their vehicles were towed in violation of the updated ordinance should report concerns to the Allentown Police Department immediately at 610-437-7732.

For more information on the ordinance, contact the Allentown City Clerk’s Office or visit www.allentownpa.gov.