§ 10-221. Definitions.

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Attendant means any person who is authorized by the impoundment facility to release a vehicle from the facility when presented with proper documentation of ownership and payment of the appropriate fees.

Department means to the state department of motor vehicle safety, or any successor, department or agency responsible for regulating towing of trespassing vehicles on private property.

Maximum rate tariff means to the publication containing the maximum rates as prescribed by the department that a wrecker company can assess for the towing and storage of vehicles removed pursuant to the authority granted in the nonconsensual towing permit.

Nonconsensual towing means towing without the prior consent or authorization of the owner or operator of the motor vehicle being towed.

Nonconsensual towing carrier means to a wrecker service engaged in the towing of trespassing vehicles on private property without prior consent or authorization of the owner or operator of the vehicle and having a secure impoundment facility.

Nonconsensual towing permit means to a permit issued by the department authorizing removal of improperly parked vehicles and trespassing personal property from private property.

Normal business hours means the department-approved operating hours of the nonconsensual towing carrier.

Receipt means a document issued by the attendant to the owner of the vehicle stating all charges have been paid for the towing and storage of vehicle.

Secure impoundment facility means a facility owned or leased by a towing company for the purpose of providing secure storage of towed vehicles.

Wrecker means an automotive vehicle with hoisting apparatus and equipment for towing vehicles. The term "wrecker" includes any vehicle otherwise equipped and used for the purposes of towing vehicles.

(Ord. No. 2004-004, § 1(16-101), 9-7-2004)