PHILADELPHIA -- A controversial parking enforcement tactic in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia is drawing complaints from drivers who say they are being charged $100 or more to remove devices called " barnacles " from their windshields.

Barnacles, which attach to a car's windshield, are being used in a private lot.

Lawyers for the parking company say the devices are intended to keep spaces open for plaza customers. But according to discussions by the city's public safety committee, barnacles are largely unregulated and do not fall under existing towing laws.

Nick Villalta said he parked in the lot recently to run across the street to CVS.

"Literally not even five minutes later, I notice the barnacle on my windshield," Villalta said.

He paid $100 to have it removed.

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