Towing Issues: Private Property Clamping, private property owners, instant millionaire

Question
In Florida there is a newly formed corporation that sells a business "system" and a "territory" based on population to individuals so they can start a 'private property car clamping/booting business'. They provide a business model,handbook,signage,clamps,a call center,everything needed to start a booting business and instruct you on how to get contracts with private property owners. I have an interest in the business but as I investigate the opportunity I am noticing there are local and state laws being enacted around the country to stop private property clamping. Obviously this is because of past abuses of towing companies, property owners, and local campers.  How do I find out the legality of clamping in various counties and cities of Florida?? How about other state information as to the legalities of clamping?? Must a business have a towing license to clamp even though there will be no towing that is unless an actual towing company is called in to assist? Can you give me a unbiased answer to this question as it will certainly have an effect on the local towing truck business nearby?? (If you tow or own a business that tows I am certain you will have strong feelings as to why this business should not exist.)  Thank you,  Doug

Answer
Hi Doug, I am glad to know that you are doing research on this subject before getting to deep. Go to http://www.pwof.org/ and http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/ for the current statues in Florida. This will take some time on your part! Professional wrecker operators of Florida is a great organization and can provide more information. As for this new company it reminds me of a television commercial were you can be an instant millionaire by sending $39.95 for their guaranteed success kit. That's how THEY became millionaires! There have been similar marketing and franchise companies in the towing industry without much success. On the other hand, depending on the cost, it could be used as a generic resource or reference guide. Just don't expect too much. If you have that much interest nobody will sell it better than YOU and the best way is by knocking on doors, asking questions and for their business. Many states do require licenses, permits, fingerprinting and background checks for booting vehicles.  Your local and state police department can also give some information on requirements. As for my opinion on booting vs. towing, This mirrors a franchise road service provider(name withheld) vs. towing companies. They were viewed as a threat to some towers but with time proved to many stranded customers that there is no substitute for professionally trained towing operators when it comes to disabled vehicles. With that said, my opinion as a tower, "booting doesn't take care of a parking problem. The violating vehicle is still on the property and doesn't make available the parking space for the paying or future customer". That's my pitch :)! Seriously, If you can find a better way of improving or providing a better service, go for it! Don't worry what the other thinks! Best of luck and let me know what you find out.