PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A 7-Eleven franchise owner in Bala Cynwyd is defending his decision to use “barnacles” – yellow suction devices placed on windshields – to deter non-customers from parking in his lot, as local officials consider whether the practice is legal.

Several signs now warn drivers outside the convenience store on City Avenue that unauthorized parking could result in a barnacle. The store’s owner, MD Rahman, said the measure became necessary after too many people left their cars in his lot while shopping elsewhere.

“So everybody park here and they go for other place for shopping, and then my customer doesn’t have space for parking,” Rahman said.

READ MORE: Residents say windshield barnacles are predatory, question legality

Northern Liberties residents say windshield barnacles are predatory, question legality

Rahman told Action News he previously relied on towing but found that the practice created steep bills for drivers.

“When they tow, it was very expensive for the customers, and I feel bad for them too,” he said. “Sometimes they go for like maybe 15 minutes and they charge for like $300 to $400, so after that we start with the barnacle company.”

Lower Merion officials say they have received several complaints about the barnacles, which cost $100 or more for drivers to remove. The concerns have prompted the township to weigh potential regulations.

Residents in other neighborhoods have also reported similar issues. Liam McNicholas of Fishtown said he noticed the towing company Bob Sponges placing barnacles on cars accused of violating parking rules at a Richmond Street lot.

“I would really hope for some kind of solution one way or another on this,” McNicholas said. “If it’s not legal, that would be kinda extortion.”

Another lot at 4th and Spring Garden streets in Philadelphia’s Northern Liberties section has also seen drivers hit with barnacles.

It’s an issue Action News has investigated for more than two years. The scrutiny has helped push officials toward discussing an all-out ban.

“Right now I don’t believe they are legal, but we’re waiting for our legal department to verify that,” Councilmember Mark Squilla said. “And we’re hoping to have legislation in place in the new year.”

However, the attorney representing Bob Sponges towing company argues the business is operating within the law.

“They drafted an ordinance that is fine when you’re only dealing with tow trucks, but this is not a tow,” attorney Kevin Mincey said. “The police don’t just get to decide to decide something is illegal that’s not covered in the law.”

Councilmember Curtis Jones, who introduced related legislation in Philadelphia, said he has called for a meeting and hopes to finalize an ordinance soon.

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