The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has released updated guidance for consumers regarding towing and vehicle immobilization, aiming to clarify new regulations and inform the public about their rights. The PUC, which oversees the towing and booting industries in Colorado, is increasing efforts to educate drivers following recent legislative changes that have expanded its regulatory authority.
According to the PUC, it has developed new fact sheets, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and website updates intended for both consumers and operators. Businesses and housing complexes are encouraged to distribute this information among residents and customers to help prevent incidents of towing or immobilization.
Rebecca White, Director at 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 agency processed 447 complaints, secured over $68,000 in refunds for consumers, and issued more than $1.6 million in industry penalties and fines.
The commission highlighted several common reasons vehicles are subject to towing or booting. These include parking without a required permit, blocking driveways or roadways, improper use of handicap spaces or fire lanes, occupying someone else’s designated spot without permission, using business parking while patronizing another business nearby, or parking on a closed business’s lot.
Between 2021 and 2024, state legislation broadened consumer protections related to towing carriers. The PUC sets rules ensuring that companies meet insurance requirements and establishing reasonable rates for various types of vehicle removal services.
For those whose vehicles have been removed from residential or commercial properties—or by law enforcement—the PUC offers detailed FAQs on its website in English and Spanish. These resources explain how individuals can retrieve their vehicles and outline steps for filing complaints if improper action is suspected. Each year the commission investigates more than a thousand complaints related mostly to nonconsensual towing events.
Enforcement measures may include securing refunds for affected individuals or imposing fines on service providers. From 2022 through 2024, the PUC obtained 469 refunds totaling approximately $280,289 for customers.
Regarding booting—also known as vehicle immobilization—the industry has been regulated by the PUC since 2019. In 2025 new legislation (HB 25-1117) introduced further protections particularly affecting residential properties. The commission’s oversight includes permitting requirements for companies; setting maximum rates for removing devices; operational standards such as release procedures; payment methods; and signage obligations.
Consumers can consult additional online resources explaining when booting is allowed and steps they should take if affected. Complaints about improper immobilization can be filed with the PUC Consumer Affairs team for investigation.
Beyond these responsibilities related to towing and booting/immobilization industries in Colorado, the PUC also regulates other transportation services including taxis; sightseeing vehicles; contract carriers serving specific clients; household goods movers operating within state lines; luxury limousines; charter buses; off-road scenic charters; children’s activity buses; as well as rideshare platforms like Lyft and Uber.
Consumers seeking assistance can contact the commission by phone at 303-894-2070 (option #2), toll-free at 800-456-0858 outside Denver, via email at dora_puc_complaints@state.co.us or through its online portal.
