San Marcos to use Barnacle to address parking violators
SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN) — The City of San Marcos said it was implementing a new tool to help curb habitual parking offenders.
Beginning March 10, the city said its parking enforcement personnel would be using the Barnacle, a vehicle immobilization device that attaches to a car's windshield.
'Unlike traditional boots, the Barnacle provides a more efficient process for both drivers and parking enforcement. Using the Barnacle, drivers can make payments and remove the device without onsite assistance from parking enforcement personnel,' the city said.
The Barnacle will be used on the vehicles of parking offenders with three or more unpaid citations, according to the city.
A bright orange sticker on the vehicle will notify the owner, and after 10 days, if the fines remain unpaid, the vehicle becomes eligible for the immobilization device.
'There are currently tens of thousands of dollars' worth of unpaid parking citations in San Marcos, and each citation represents an impact to parking availability throughout our community,' said Parking Coordinator Samantha Deyo. 'Updating our parking enforcement strategy to include use of the Barnacle enhances efficiency and effectiveness while encouraging access to parking for everyone.'
Drivers can check for and pay outstanding citations by visiting the San Marcos Citation Portal.
Once the Barnacle is placed on a vehicle, the fines can be paid by scanning a QR code, clicking here, or by making arrangements with the Municipal Court by calling 512-393-8190. Once a payment is received, drivers will receive a release code to remove the device themselves.
According to the city, the Barnacle must then be returned within 24 hours to the drop box near the front entrance of the San Marcos Police Department to avoid additional fees.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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