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Towing Laws in Kentucky

Max tow:No statewide capMax storage:No statewide cap

Storage fees stack up every day your car sits in the lot - the sooner you act, the less you owe.

Reviewed by Daniel Richardson

Know your rights: towing regulations, maximum fees, and consumer protections in Kentucky (KY).

Max Tow Fee

No statewide dollar cap, but statewide law (KRS 281.926/281.932) caps all tow charges at each company's mandatory KYTC-filed rate sheet; private-property drop fee capped at 50% of the release fee (KRS 281.924). Louisville Metro and some localities set local maximums.

Max Storage Fee

No statewide dollar cap; capped at the towing company's KYTC-filed rate sheet (KRS 281.930/281.932). No storage charge for days release was not permitted during posted business hours. Varies by company and by local ordinance.

Signage Required

Yes

Police Notification

Required

Charged more than Kentucky allows?

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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

Law enforcement must be notified of non-consensual tows.

Signage Requirements

Private property must display visible towing warning signs.

Your Rights in Kentucky

  • Right to notification of tow location
  • Right to vehicle retrieval during business hours
  • Right to personal property access
  • 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 Attorney General Consumer Protection Division

Visit Website

Steps to File a Complaint:

  1. Document everything: take photos of signage, your parking location, vehicle condition, and all receipts.
  2. Note the date, time, tow company name, driver name, and truck number if available.
  3. Contact the Kentucky Attorney General Consumer Protection Division to file a formal complaint.
  4. 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.

Towing Costs in Kentucky

Average towing costs in Kentucky range from $70 to $130 for a local tow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there tow fee caps in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not have statewide fee caps, but Louisville Metro and some other jurisdictions have local regulations. Check with your local government for applicable rate limits.
What do I need to pick up my towed car in Kentucky?
Bring valid photo ID, vehicle registration or title, and payment. Most facilities accept credit cards. Retrieve your car as soon as possible to minimize storage fees.
Can I get my personal items from a towed car in Kentucky?
Yes. Tow facilities must allow you to access personal belongings during business hours. Contact the facility for their specific hours and any requirements.

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