A HARSH parking crackdown is now underway, and drivers who aren’t following the law could be left with completely unusable cars.
Starting Monday, bizarre “barnacle” devices will be slapped on windshields in Texas.
GettyParking violators will be punished with barnacle devices that make their car undrivable[/caption] GettyThe Barnacle is a large yellow clamp placed on the windshield which blocks the driver’s view[/caption] GettyAny driver who fails to follow the rules is at risk of getting the barnacle[/caption]The Barnacle is a large yellow clamp that sticks to the windshield and completely blocks the driver’s view.
City officials in San Marcos, between San Antonio and Austin, started using the equipment to crack down on unpaid parking tickets.
Any driver with three or more tickets is at risk of getting the barnacle slapped on their rides.
This new method is designed to replace the traditional boot and make the process quicker.
Instead of waiting for staff to remove a boot, drivers can now pay up and unlock the device themselves.
Fines can be paid through a QR code, online, or by calling the municipal court.
Once settled, they’ll get a release code to detach the barnacle, but there’s an extra catch that could lead to more fees as drivers have 24 hours to return the device.
Tampering with it or driving off without payment will trigger a blaring alarm.
Parking officials say the new method boosts safety for their staff.
“This takes them out of the equation and keeps our techs safe,” city parking coordinator Samantha Deyo told KVUE.
The city issues up to 10,000 parking citations every year, but only 38% are being paid.
In 2023, warning stickers pushed compliance up to 60% but officials want that number higher.
Now, they hope the barnacle will force more drivers to clear their fines faster.
Offenders will first get a bright orange warning sticker before the clamp is used.
What to do if you get a barnacle on your car
Stay calm – Your car won’t be able to move until you pay the fines.
Look for the orange warning sticker – You may have received one before the Barnacle was placed.
Pay your fines – Use the QR code, go online, or call the municipal court to pay.
Scan the QR code or visit the website listed on the device. Click “I’ve Been Barnacled” on the website. Enter the 5-digit device number found on the Barnacle. Provide your mobile number – You’ll receive a one-time verification code via text. Enter the verification code on the website. Enter your payment information – A credit card payment allows for immediate release. Receive a 4-digit release code after payment. Enter the release code into the Barnacle keypad (may take up to 30 seconds to release). Remove the Barnacle – Gently pull it off and fold it with the yellow parts facing out. Return the Barnacle within 24 hours – Drop it off at one of the designated locations to get your $200 deposit refunded. Ensure the Barnacle is returned undamaged to receive your deposit back.Don’t tamper with it – Trying to remove it or drive off without paying will trigger a loud alarm and may alert police.
Source: Barnacle – Institutional Planning and Operations
If they still don’t pay within 10 days, their car can be locked at any time.
Even vehicles parked legally on public streets or city property are at risk.
Locals have mixed reactions, but some say it’s an easier solution.
“Making that a ‘self-process’ actually, that is better than a boot,” driver Kieran Bose said.
Drivers are urged to check for unpaid tickets through the San Marcos Citation Portal.
The barnacle has also been implemented in other cities across America.
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