Gainesville, Florida Weighs Towing Overhaul

Gainesville city commissioners are weighing changes to the city’s towing ordinance after a police review found outdated language and a surge in resident complaints. Following nearly three hours of discussion, the commission voted 6-0 to have staff return with options, including banning vehicle booting and roam towing, limiting enforcement in multifamily communities, or revising the ordinance altogether.

Police officials presented data showing confusion around towing categories—call-in, roam, and trespass—and noted that immobilization, or booting, is not clearly defined. Officials also cited inconsistent fees and limited tools to address violations.

Data revealed towing peaked in 2021 with 951 incidents, while 2026 saw fewer tows but a spike in booting, with 667 vehicles immobilized in just 19 days of March. Currently, nearly 600 properties contract with four towing companies.

Commissioners are also considering capping booting fees at $65 to align more closely with nearby jurisdictions.