Cape Town takes stand against parking bullies

The City of Cape Town has procured five custom-built towing vehicles that will help its traffic services remove vehicles that have parked in an irresponsible manner, or with little consideration for the impact it has on fellow road users.

Up to now, the metro had limited ability to tow such vehicles, confined to where a large flatbed truck can pull in front of the car causing the obstruction, and then hoist it onto the flatbed.

“This is seldom possible within CBD or congested areas,” said the City.

“Up until now, inconsiderate motorists often park their vehicles with impunity, assuming they can escape accountability.”

This inspired the development of the new purpose-built towing vehicles, which can stop alongside an offender, extend a hydraulic, side-fork crane, quickly lift the vehicle from the road, and place it on the back of the truck.

“This allows our operational efficiency to improve, as vehicles parked illegally or causing an obstruction can quickly be removed,” said the City.

“The owner thereafter will be charged for the obstruction, as well as becoming liable for the towing and release fees at the pound.”

The City hopes these trucks will lead to a shift in driver behaviour, and a reduction of inconsiderate and illegal parking.

Revenue generator

An increase in vehicle towing could also boost Cape Town’s coffers, similar to what happened in the City of Tshwane.

Last year, Tshwane went on a drive to increase its impoundments following a rise in complaints of vehicles parked in loading zones, bus lanes, and no-parking areas within its jurisdiction.

In July 2024 alone, its traffic authorities impounded a grand total of 917 vehicles, a stark increase compared to the 270 and 357 impounds in May and June, respectively.

One of the most notable outcomes of the heightened law enforcement was a considerable increase in income for Tshwane, said Grandi Theunissen, then-MMC for Community Safety.

The impounding fees alone generated approximately R2 million for the city’s metro police in July 2024, with additional storage fees levied against all impounded vehicles not immediately collected by their owners further contributing to increased revenue.