Miami Beach to Text Residents Before Towing Vehicles

Miami Beach will launch its new "Text Before Tow" program on May 12, providing registered residents with a 15-minute warning before their vehicle is towed. The initiative aims to offer a grace period and prevent unnecessary towing.

The program automatically enrolls residents who have already registered their vehicles with the city's Parking Department. Mayor Steven Meiner called the program a "smart, resident-focused approach" that offers a grace period to spare residents towing frustrations.

However, the warning texts will not apply to vehicles parked in freight loading zones or in cases of life safety violations, such as blocking fire lanes, travel lanes or disabled parking spaces. Residents will receive only one notification per citation to prevent misuse.

Commissioner Alex Fernandez said the program addresses the frustration and cost many residents face when their cars are towed without a chance to correct an issue. He added that the goal of parking enforcement should be compliance, not punishment.

Residents can enroll in the Residential Parking Permit and Discount program online at register.miamibeachparking.com or in person at the Miami Beach Customer Service Center, 1755 Meridian Ave, 1st floor. Required documents for in-person registration include a photo ID, vehicle registration and proof of residency.

Residents already enrolled in existing parking programs do not need to take further action; they are automatically registered with the mobile number on file. More information is available on the city's parking website.