Kansas City, Missouri – June 17, 2025
Private Party Impound, LLC (PPI) has filed a lawsuit in Jackson County Circuit Court against the City of Kansas City and Jackson County, challenging new ordinances they allege are in conflict with Missouri law. Represented by attorneys Mark Meyer and Edward A. Stump, PPI seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to stop the enforcement of rules requiring vehicle release to individuals without verified legal ownership documentation.
According to the complaint, the new local ordinances would obligate tow operators to release vehicles to individuals lacking a title, registration, or legal proof of ownership. PPI contends that these mandates contradict Missouri statutes and pose risks to public safety and property rights.
Missouri Revised Statutes Sections 304.156 and 304.157 outline strict conditions under which towed vehicles may be reclaimed—specifically limiting that right to legal owners or lienholders. The new ordinances, however, permit release to those presenting temporary permits, expired rental contracts, or insurance documentation without verifying ownership.
The lawsuit argues that tow operators face a legal dilemma: follow local ordinances and risk violating state law, or follow state law and face penalties or loss of licensure from local authorities.
The legal action asserts that the ordinances are:
In direct conflict with state law
Unconstitutional
Adopted without due process protections
PPI warns that the ordinances could enable vehicle theft and expose towing companies to lawsuits from rightful owners and rental firms if vehicles are released improperly.
The company also notes that the ordinances disproportionately burden small businesses, stating that large national companies may be better positioned to absorb the legal and financial risks posed by the new rules.
The lawsuit further challenges licensing and suspension provisions in the Jackson County code, which PPI alleges are excessive and allow for punitive actions based on minor infractions or employee conduct outside work hours.
PPI believes these regulations threaten the viability of local towing businesses and call for judicial intervention to prevent harm to both the industry and vehicle owners who rely on lawful towing practices.
The suit requests that the court declare the ordinances illegal and unenforceable. PPI encourages community members to support the towing industry’s effort to uphold state law, property rights, and safe towing practices.
CALL TO ACTION:
Tow operators, business owners, and concerned citizens are encouraged to:
Share this release on social media
Contact Kansas City Council members and Jackson County legislators
Support lawful towing and local small businesses
Media Inquiries & Legal Contact:
The Law Offices of Mark E. Meyer, LLC
Phone: (816) 729-0866
Email: meyerlaw78@yahoo.com
The Law Offices of Edward A. Stump, LLC
Phone: (816) 550-3606
Email: law.offices.edstump@gmail.com
