The Boot and Tow Program went into effect on April 2, 2007.  This program is administered under Olympia Municipal Code 10.16.270-300 approved by City Council on December 12, 2006.

Why a Boot and Tow Program?  The goal of the program is to encourage the payment of overdue parking tickets. Did you know that currently, there are over 4,800 vehicles that have 8 or more overdue parking tickets since 2003?  Parking staff must research and mail multiple letters to the registered owners of these vehicles.  Overdue parking tickets cost the city staff time, money, and take away from ensuring parking is available downtown.

Who will be affected?  Vehicles with 8 or more parking tickets that are 60 days overdue will be subject to booting and/or towing.

Were those affected notified?  Yes.  In February, we mailed notices to the registered owners of the vehicles affected (utilizing the current address on record at the Department of Licensing).  After implementation on April 2, 2007, a 10-business day pre-notification will be given prior to booting and/or towing.

Boot Information:

• What is a boot?  A boot is an immobilization device that is placed on the vehicle’s tire to prevent the vehicle from being driven.
• When does booting occur?  Booting occurs when a vehicle has 8 or more unpaid parking tickets that are at least 60 days overdue.
• Are there fees involved with booting?  Yes.  There is a $25 administrative fee and a $50 boot fee.  This fee is in addition to any outstanding parking tickets that are owed.  If the vehicle is towed, there will be an additional $100 tow fee.
• What do I do when my vehicle is booted?  Contact the Parking Services office at (360) 570-3700 within 2 business days to make payment arrangements, or the vehicle will be towed.  Payment arrangements must be made during regular business hours.

Towing Information:

• When is a vehicle towed? When a vehicle has 12 or more unpaid parking tickets that are at least 60 days overdue, or if you fail to respond to a boot, the vehicle is towed.
• What do I do if my vehicle is towed?  You must contact Parking Services and make payment arrangements for overdue parking tickets and administrative fees.  Payment arrangements must be made during regular business hours.  In addition, you will be responsible for all fees administered by the towing company.
• What are the fees involved?  There is a $25 City administrative fee, a $50 boot fee, and a $100 impound fee.  All fees and overdue parking tickets must be paid prior to the release of your vehicle.  Additionally, you are responsible for any fees administered by the company that towed your vehicle. 

Need More Information? Contact Parking Services:

    Address:   117 Legion Way, SW
    Phone:     (360) 570-3700 
    Hours:     Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,
                    except Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
    Or Email us.