Protect Your Property

As the Town of Fairfax moves forward with its No Camping Ordinance, it is important to take steps to safeguard your property. While the ordinance is primarily aimed at public spaces, there is a possibility that some individuals may relocate to private business properties, which could disrupt your operations.

To ensure you're fully protected, we recommend the following actions:

1. File a No-Trespass Letter (SB 602)

Under SB 602, property owners can file a No-Trespass Letter with the Fairfax Police Department, which provides immediate legal grounds to remove trespassers. The letter is valid for 12 months and does not require notarization. A simple letter with your name, business, address, contact information and request to file a No Trespass Letter (SB602) would be sufficient. Similar to this example. List authorized representatives.

• Why it matters: Filing the letter proactively protects your property against unauthorized camping or squatting. If you don’t take action, you may have difficulty removing individuals from your premises if they set up camp or engage in other activities that disrupt your business.

2. Establish a Towing Contract

It’s also crucial to establish a towing contract with a reputable company. Without this agreement, relying solely on "No Trespassing" or "Tow Away" signs may not provide adequate legal grounds to remove unauthorized vehicles.

• Mitigate liability: Without a formal towing contract, you risk exposure to legal claims if a vehicle owner disputes the removal. A formal contract ensures that towing actions are legally justified.

• Select a Reputable Towing Company: Choose a towing company with a solid reputation and experience in handling unauthorized vehicle removals. In our area, reputable companies include ATA Towing, Valley Towing, and Corte Madera Tow. ATA Towing offers a straightforward process, and while there is a fee for purchasing the signs, establishing a contract incurs no additional cost.

• Ensure Proper Signage
  It’s important that any signage you use complies with California law. Under California Vehicle Code Section 22658, specific requirements must be met for signage to be legally valid for towing unauthorized vehicles. The signage must be clearly visible and include specific language regarding towing and the consequences for unauthorized parking. By using your towing company’s approved signage, you can avoid potential legal issues and ensure that towing actions are fully supported by California law.

• Add Authorized Signers: Designate multiple authorized signers who can act on behalf of the business in towing matters. This ensures that towing requests can be promptly addressed, even in the absence of specific individuals.

Why These Actions Matter

Business properties are subject to different trespassing laws than residential properties. These steps will provide you with the necessary legal support to act quickly if unauthorized individuals or vehicles attempt to take up space on your property.

Risks of Inaction Without a No-Trespass Letter or a towing contract in place, you may face challenges in removing squatters or unauthorized vehicles. These steps not only ensure that your business can operate without disruptions, but they also help mitigate legal risks and provide you with the necessary tools to address any issues promptly.

Additional Resources:

Relevant Links:

• Newsom signs bill offering enhanced trespass protections for property owners

• SB-602 Trespass

• Vehicle Code - DIVISION 11. RULES OF THE ROAD CHAPTER 10. Removal of Parked and Abandoned Vehicles

We strongly encourage you to take these actions now to avoid complications down the road.

For assistance or questions, please contact:

Rico Tabaranza | Chief of Police
Phone: 415-453-5330
Email: rtabaranza@fairfaxpd.org