Towing Laws in Florida (2026)

Key Towing Laws in Florida

FS 715.07 - Private Property Towing

Detailed requirements for non-consensual towing including mandatory signage, authorization by property owner, and vehicle owner notification.

FS 713.78 - Lien on Vehicles

Tow companies can file liens on unclaimed vehicles after proper notification and waiting periods.

County Rate Regulation

Each county sets maximum tow and storage rates. Companies cannot exceed these rates for non-consensual tows.

Free Personal Property Access

Florida law requires tow companies to allow free access to personal belongings during business hours, separate from vehicle retrieval.

Illuminated Signage

Towing warning signs on private property must be illuminated at night to be enforceable.

Notification & Signage Requirements

Police Notification

Tow companies must notify local law enforcement within 30 minutes. FLHSMV must be notified through the DAVID system.

Signage Requirements

Signs must be prominently posted at each parking lot entrance with company name, phone, and fees. Must be illuminated at night.

Your Rights in Florida

Right to vehicle release if present before tow truck leaves property
Right to retrieve personal belongings free of charge during business hours
Right to county-regulated maximum fees
Right to pay by credit card
Right to an itemized receipt
Right to dispute tow through county hearing process
Right to receive notification of tow location

How to File a Complaint in Florida

Complaint Agency

If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

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Steps to File a Complaint:

Document everything: take photos of signage, your parking location, vehicle condition, and all receipts.
Note the date, time, tow company name, driver name, and truck number if available.
Contact the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to file a formal complaint.
Consider filing in small claims court if you believe you are owed money for an illegal or improper tow.

Towing Costs in Florida

Average towing costs in Florida range from $85 to $160 for a local tow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the maximum towing fees in Florida?

Florida tow rates are regulated at the county level. For example, Miami-Dade County caps standard tows at approximately $135, while other counties may allow up to $175. Check your specific county regulations or contact the county consumer affairs office.

Can I get my personal items from a towed car in Florida?

Yes. Florida law requires tow companies to allow you to access and remove personal belongings from your vehicle during business hours, free of charge, even if you cannot pay to retrieve the vehicle itself.

What do I do if my car was illegally towed in Florida?

File a complaint with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. You can also pursue the matter in small claims court. If the tow violated signage requirements or was not properly authorized, you may be entitled to recover your fees plus damages.

Does Florida require towing signs to be lit at night?

Yes. Under Florida statute 715.07, towing warning signs on private property must be sufficiently illuminated to be visible at night. A tow may be invalid if the sign was not illuminated.

Towing Laws in Florida