1. When Can a Tow Company Remove Your Car? #
A tow truck can only tow your vehicle from private property if:
- You gave consent to the tow, or
- The property uses approved enforcement (e.g., municipal bylaw officers), and
- The property has clear tow-away signs at entrances.
If none of these apply, the tow may be illegal.
2. Signs Required for Legal Private-Property Towing #
A private lot must have:
- A visible Tow-Away Zone sign
- The name and phone number of the towing company
- A statement that vehicles may be removed at the owner’s expense
If these signs are missing or unclear, the tow may not be enforceable.
3. Your Rights Before Your Vehicle Is Towed #
You have the right to:
- See the towing company’s rates
- Receive and sign a consent form
- Know where your car will be towed
- Refuse a tow if you did not request it and no bylaw officer is involved
If the operator starts towing without consent, you can challenge the fee.
4. Your Rights After Your Vehicle Is Towed #
You are legally entitled to:
- An itemized invoice showing all charges
- Multiple payment methods (cash, debit, credit)
- Access to your personal belongings in the car
- Pickup your vehicle during posted business hours without extra fees
Hidden fees or blocked access are not allowed.
5. Maximum Charges and Fees #
Tow operators must:
- Charge only the rates they provided before towing
- Not add unauthorized fees (fuel surcharge, admin fee, etc.)
- Follow the provincial maximum rate guidelines
If the price is higher than what was presented, you can dispute it.
6. What Property Owners Must Follow #
Property owners must:
- Install correct signage
- Use only certified towing operators
- Make sure towing is used fairly and legally
- Follow any municipal rules before ordering a tow (varies by city)
Failing to follow these rules can result in fines or invalid towing.
7. How to Verify a Legal Tow Operator #
Every tow operator in Ontario must show:
- A valid Tow Operator Certificate
- Their certificate number on the truck
- Their company name clearly displayed
If they refuse or cannot show proof, the tow may be illegal.
8. If You Believe the Tow Was Illegal #
You can:
- Ask for all documents (invoice, consent form, operator ID).
- Take photos of the area — especially missing signs.
- File a complaint under the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act (TSSEA).
- Request a fee review if charges exceed legal limits.
9. Quick Checklist for Drivers #
- Was there a warning sign?
- Did you sign a consent form?
- Did you see the rate sheet?
- Did the operator show their certificate?
- Did you get an itemized invoice?
If any answer is no, your rights may have been violated.
