How the city is making parking enforcement simpler for drivers while maintaining compliance

Towing Creates More Problems Than Most People Realize

Nobody likes getting parking tickets. But for many drivers, the real frustration begins when a vehicle is towed. Finding a tow yard, paying storage fees, arranging transportation, and spending time retrieving a vehicle can turn a parking violation into a much bigger headache. That’s one reason Kansas City is using the Barnacle as an alternative to towing for certain repeat parking violators.

Keeping Vehicles in Place

Instead of towing a vehicle across town, the Barnacle remains attached to the windshield until violations are resolved. That means drivers never have to wonder where their car is. The vehicle stays parked, giving drivers a clear and simple path to compliance.

Immediate Access Back to the Vehicle

Drivers can scan the QR code, pay outstanding citations, receive a release code, and remove the device themselves. There is no waiting for city staff and no trip to a tow yard. Once payment is complete, access to the vehicle is restored immediately.

A More Affordable Path to Compliance

Towing costs can quickly exceed the original parking violation through towing charges and storage fees. By comparison, the Barnacle provides a more predictable process and helps drivers avoid many of the extra expenses associated with towing.

Effective Enforcement Without the Hassle

Using approximately 1,000 pounds of suction force, the Barnacle securely attaches to a vehicle’s windshield and acts as a strong deterrent against repeat violations. The goal is simple: encourage drivers to resolve outstanding citations quickly and return to compliance.

Trusted by Agencies Nationwide

Kansas City is not alone. The Barnacle is trusted by more than 40 agencies and universities across more than 40 states nationwide, including major police departments, university police agencies, parking authorities, and municipalities of every size. As cities look for effective and transparent alternatives to traditional towing, adoption continues to grow.

Looking Ahead

Kansas City’s use of the Barnacle reflects a simple idea: parking enforcement can be effective without creating unnecessary complications for drivers. By helping vehicle owners resolve violations quickly, avoid tow lots, and regain immediate access to their vehicles, the city is showing there may be a smarter alternative to traditional towing.

Curious how the Barnacle works? Watch this short video to see the technology in action and learn why cities across the country are adopting it.