APD shares tips for dealing with SXSW streets

Getting around Austin is no easy feat during South by Southwest, and the Austin Police Department has released a couple of information sheets to try to make it a little easier. You can find information about street closures here and some tips on how to get around Austin during this busy time. If you choose to drive, remember that it is very important to pay attention to parking during the festival. Parking is limited in a lot of the city, especially downtown. In addition, drivers must navigate specific parking and no-parking zones and band load-in and load-out areas. The department’s press release specifically advises awareness when parking on private property, as there will be “towing signs placed at the entrances and exits of the properties. State law requires signs at the entrance and exit points, but not necessarily in front of the parking area. If these signs are up and you violate the warning on the sign, your vehicle could be towed.” If you do get towed, know that “there are limits on what a tow company can charge you. The maximum amount that a towing company can charge is $150.00. Once the vehicle reaches the Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF), there’s an extra $20.00 impound fee and a $20.00 storage fee (both of which are authorized by state law) – bringing the total to $190.00 plus tax. After the first 24 hours, the tow company can charge an additional $50.00 for a notification fee, also authorized by state law. This would bring the total to $240.00 plus tax.” Also,  “If your vehicle is in the process of being towed and you contact the tow truck driver before your vehicle is fully prepared for transport, it must be released – free of charge.” View the release here for options for recourse if you feel you’ve been wrongly towed.