Vehicles: removal from private property.

Existing law authorizes the owner or person in lawful possession of private property to cause the removal of a vehicle parked on the property to a storage facility under specified circumstances, including when signs are posted prohibiting public parking and warning that vehicles will be removed at the owner's expense. Existing law requires the tow truck operator removing the vehicle, if the operator knows or is able to ascertain the name and address of the registered and legal owner of the vehicle, to immediately give, or cause to be given, notice in writing to the registered and legal owner of the fact of the removal and the amount of mileage on the vehicle at the time of the removal, among other things. Existing law makes it a misdemeanor for the towing company to remove or commence the removal of a vehicle from private property without first obtaining the written authorization from the property owner or lessee, or an employee or agent thereof, except as specified, and requires the written authorization to include specified information, including the make, model, vehicle identification number, and license plate number of the removed vehicle. This bill would require the notice of removal to the vehicle's registered and legal owner to include the amount of mileage on the vehicle only if the vehicle has a visible odometer. The bill would, if the vehicle is a shared mobility device or does not have an identifiable make, model, vehicle identification number, or license plate number, require the written authorization of the property owner or lessee to include any identification numbers on the vehicle, including, but not limited to, a quick response (QR) code or serial number. By expanding the scope of an existing crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.