Key Towing Laws in Georgia
OCGA 44-1-14 - Private Property Towing
Regulates non-consensual towing from private property including fee caps and signage requirements.
Fee Cap
Non-consensual towing fees for standard vehicles (GVWR 10,000 lbs or less) are capped statewide at $228 by Georgia DPS Maximum Rate Tariff No. 5 (effective June 17, 2024). Heavier vehicles have higher limits ($390 / $585 / $1,105).
Written Authorization
Property owners or managers must provide written authorization before a vehicle can be towed from private property.
Police Notification (O.C.G.A. 40-11-16)
After a non-consensual tow from private property, the towing firm must request the owner's information from the Department of Revenue within 3 days and notify the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction no later than one day after that request. There is no statewide one-hour deadline.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
After a private-property tow requested by the property owner, the towing firm must request the owner's identification and address from the Department of Revenue within three business days (or from the registration state for out-of-state plates), then notify the local law enforcement agency by hand delivery, electronic transmission, or fax no later than one business day after that request.
Signage Requirements
Signs at least 12 by 18 inches within 50 feet of each lot entrance (or as close as feasible), warning that unauthorized vehicles will be towed and listing the tow company's name, address, phone, lot location, fees, hours, and payment methods. Properties with four or fewer residential units are exempt.
Your Rights in Georgia
- Right to DPS fee caps on private-property tows
- Right to release if you return with the key and move the car before it leaves the lot (free if not yet hooked up)
- Right to an itemized receipt of charges
- Right to personal property access during business hours
- Right to dispute charges through consumer protection
How to File a Complaint in Georgia
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Georgia Department of Public Safety
Visit WebsiteSteps 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.
- To file a formal complaint, contact the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
- Consider filing in small claims court if you believe you are owed money for an illegal or improper tow.
Official Sources & Legal References
The fees and rules on this page are drawn from these primary sources - official statutes, administrative codes, and state regulator schedules. We link them so you can verify every figure yourself.
Regulated by Georgia Department of Public Safety.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Georgia's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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