HOUSTON – In response to public safety concerns, Houston will begin towing and impounding non-permitted pedicabs starting Oct. 1.
The move comes in response to complaints from major event venues such as NRG Park and Minute Maid Park about the dangers posed by unregulated pedicabs operating recklessly during large events, including Astros playoff games.
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Pedicabs, commonly seen transporting passengers from remote parking areas to event venues, have become a popular mode of transportation during major events.
However, many pedicab operators from outside the city or state do not follow Houston’s safety regulations, endangering both passengers and pedestrians. These illegal operators frequently ignore public safety rules and create traffic issues while taking business from those who operate legally and pay for city-issued permits.
The City of Houston is taking action after venues petitioned for stronger enforcement due to the rising number of incidents caused by non-permitted pedicabs. Starting October 1, police will tow illegal pedicabs and impound them.
Owners will need to show valid ID, proof of ownership, and pay a $220 tow fee, which will increase if the vehicle is not retrieved within 10 days.
“We support the City of Houston for announcing towing enforcement measures for illegally operating pedicabs,” said NRG Park Sr. Assistant General Manager Leah Mastaglio. “We are committed to keeping NRG Park safe and accessible.”
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Houston’s Regulatory Permitting Deputy Director, Kathryn Bruning, emphasized the importance of riding in a permitted pedicab.
“The City of Houston requires all pedicabs operating in Houston to be permitted to ensure that the vehicle meets safety standards and carries insurance for its passengers,” said City of Houston Regulatory Permitting Deputy Director Kathryn Bruning. “We want everyone to enjoy the many events Houston has to offer without worrying that a short ride from their parking spot might end up costing thousands of dollars in medical bills if they are in an accident involving a non-permitted and uninsured pedicab that flees the state when the event is over.”
The city has already mailed notices to known pedicab companies about the upcoming enforcement.
To identify legal pedicabs, passengers should look for a bright yellow permit sticker on the vehicle’s seat post. If the certification decal isn’t visible, passengers are encouraged to ask for proof of permit and decline service if the vehicle isn’t permitted.
For those interested in operating pedicabs legally, permits can be obtained by contacting Houston’s Regulatory Permitting office via email at araregulatorypermitting@houstontx.gov or calling 832-394-8801.
For more information on pedicab regulations, visit houstontx.gov/ara/vfh/pedicabs.html.