EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — The El Paso City Council approved an ordinance aimed at tightening regulations on towing practices, including a new prohibition on soliciting business at the scene of traffic accidents.
The measure, listed as agenda item 56 (No. 26-0446), would amend Title 12 of the City Code, which governs vehicles and traffic.
The ordinance would apply city-wide.
The proposal was brought forward by the El Paso Police Department, with Executive Assistant Chief Victor Zarur listed as the department contact.
“What this does is give law enforcement a tool to address individuals who are out soliciting for business, out of accident scenes. We have individuals involved in accident scenes, victims who could go through an emotional roller coaster. And we want to make sure that the decisions they make, they’ve made based on their own decision,” said Zarur.
Under the new ordinance, tow truck companies cannot respond to a crash scene unless they are called by police, the driver, or an insurance company.
Simply showing up and offering services can now be considered a violation, punishable by a fine of up to $500.
Police say the ordinance will take effect on June 1st.
But the discussion also highlighted a separate issue.
How the city currently handles towing after a crash.
Currently, there are only five towing companies under contract with the city, rotating to respond when police request a tow.
Some in the industry say they were never given the opportunity to be part of that system, and argue five companies are not enough for a city this size.
City leaders say that the contract system is separate from this ordinance and won’t be revisited until it comes up for renewal in 2027.
But some tow truck operators say the new rule will impact them in the meantime.
“We are a legitimate towing company. We’re registered. If you want to find our information, all you have to do is go to TDLR.gov.,” said Ivan Rodriguez with United Express Towing.
“This city ordinance is not going to stop, predatory towing. It’s going to stop legitimate towing companies,” he added.
City officials say the changes are intended to improve safety and reduce confusion for drivers involved in accidents, who may feel pressured or overwhelmed when approached by unsolicited tow operators.
The ordinance also aims to create a more orderly and regulated towing process across all city districts.
Watch the full city council meeting below:
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