The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has released updated information to help consumers understand recent changes in regulations regarding towing and vehicle booting or immobilization. The PUC oversees these industries in Colorado to prevent predatory or illegal practices and has launched a new campaign to inform the public about their rights and how to avoid issues with their vehicles.
The PUC has produced fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and updated its website for both consumers and operators. Businesses and housing complexes are encouraged by the PUC to share this information with residents and customers.
Rebecca White, Director of the PUC, stated: “The best outcome for consumers is not to be towed or booted in the first place but when it does happen, the PUC is here to help drivers understand their rights, to investigate consumer complaints, and hold companies accountable if they violate our consumer protection rules.” She added that last year alone, “the PUC processed 447 complaints, secured over $68,000 in refunds to consumers and issued over $1.6 million in industry penalties and fines.”
To avoid being towed or booted, the PUC advises following all posted parking rules such as obtaining necessary permits, avoiding blocked driveways or fire lanes, not parking improperly in handicap spaces or others’ designated spots without permission, not using business lots when closed or when not conducting business there.
Recent state legislation between 2021-2024 expanded consumer protections related to towing carriers. The PUC sets insurance requirements for towing companies and regulates tow rates.
For those whose vehicles have been towed from residential or commercial areas—or by law enforcement—the PUC provides FAQs on its website outlining steps for vehicle retrieval. These resources are available in English and Spanish at towing carrier offices as well.
Consumers who believe they have been improperly towed can file a complaint with the PUC Consumer Affairs team. The commission investigates more than a thousand towing-related complaints each year—most involving nonconsensual towing—and may secure refunds or impose fines on companies found violating regulations. From 2022 through 2024, the commission helped customers obtain 469 refunds totaling $280,289.35: 86 refunds ($71,917) in 2022; 259 refunds ($140,064) in 2023; and 124 refunds ($68,307) so far in 2024.
The booting/immobilization industry has been regulated by the PUC since 2019. In 2025 House Bill 25-1117 further increased consumer protections especially on residential properties. The commission now requires companies offering these services be permitted and insured; sets maximum rates for removal of boots/devices; establishes operational criteria including payment options; mandates property signage standards; and sets procedures for releasing vehicles.
Consumers who have had their vehicle booted can consult additional online resources from the commission detailing when immobilization is allowed as well as complaint processes if they feel it was improper. The PUC investigates these cases as well.
In addition to regulating towing carriers and booting services within Colorado’s transportation sector—including taxis/shuttles/charter services/movers/luxury limousines/rideshare networks like Lyft/Uber—the commission provides support via phone (303-894-2070 option #2 or toll-free at 800-456-0858), email (dora_puc_complaints@state.co.us), or online contact forms.
