Key Towing Laws in Kentucky
KRS 376.275
Kentucky Revised Statutes governing non-consensual towing from private property.
Louisville Metro Regulations
Louisville Metro Government has specific towing ordinances with rate caps.
Vehicle Release Requirements
Tow companies must release vehicles to owners with proper identification and payment.
Signage Standards
Towing enforcement signs must meet minimum size and visibility requirements.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
After a private-property tow, the towing company must notify the local law enforcement agency within two hours of completing the tow.
Signage Requirements
A property owner who sets up a tow-away zone must post a sign clearly visible to the public stating that the area is a tow-away zone, with contact information and who may or may not park there.
Your Rights in Kentucky
- Right to notice by certified mail within 10 days of where your car is held, if it is registered in Kentucky
- Right to have your car released once charges are paid and you show ID, unless police or a court has ordered a hold
- Right to get prescription medicine, medical supplies, school materials, and work documents or devices from the car on request within 45 days of a private tow
- Right to receipts for all charges
- Right to file complaints with Attorney General
How to File a Complaint in Kentucky
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC)
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 Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
- 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.
- KRS 281.926 (Mandatory uniform rate sheet; excessive-charge refund)
apps.legislature.ky.gov
- KRS 281.930 (Storage / investigative-hold rules, amended eff. June 27, 2025)
apps.legislature.ky.gov
Regulated by Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Kentucky's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
Check your tow bill
Dispute towing fees