Dallas is changing how it handles repeat unpaid parking violations, swapping out old methods and immediate towing with a windshield immobilizing device. 

Having three or more unpaid parking tickets could soon cost drivers more than the citations, and leave their windshield temporarily blocked. 

Starting Aug. 24, the city will use a device called a Barnacle to address unpaid parking fines without immediately towing the vehicle. Assistant City Manager Dev Rastogi said in a memo to city officials the equipment is an alternative to towing when possible. This allows motorists to avoid additional storage and towing fees people face when their car is impounded. 

Here’s what to know about Dallas’ new parking enforcement tool.

A Barnacle is a self-release windshield vehicle immobilizer, blocking the driver’s view and preventing the vehicle from being safely driven. 

The city and Barnacle Parking, the company that makes the device, say the device is a safer alternative to a traditional wheel boot. While a wheel boot requires officials to kneel down to place the restraint, oftentimes in traffic,  the Barnacle is placed in plain view of both traffic and the vehicle owner. 

“A windshield-mounted device blocking the driver’s view is an immediate, obvious deterrent in a way a wheel boot isn’t,” said Olivia Savino, marketing coordinator for Barnacle Parking. 

Vehicles with three or more unpaid parking tickets will be penalized using the immobilizer, according to the memo. Along with the device, a notice explaining why the immobilizer was placed on the vehicle will be provided. 

To remove the immobilizer, vehicle owners can scan the QR code or visit the website listed on the device. All outstanding parking tickets and a $100 removal fee must be paid, then a unique code will be provided to prompt removal. 

If the Barnacle is not removed within 24 hours, the vehicle will be towed. The immobilizer is unable to be used if the windshield is damaged or shaped in a way that prevents proper placement, according to the memo. 

When paying the required fees, motorists must authorize an additional $300 hold on their credit card, which is released within three business days after the Barnacle has been returned. This is to cover the cost in case the device is not returned. 

The Barnacle must be returned to 320 E. Jefferson Blvd. in Dallas.