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Towing Laws in Louisiana

Reviewed by Daniel Richardson

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

Max Tow Fee

Set by the LA Public Service Commission for non-consensual private-property tows (eff. 4/1/2026): Light Duty $152.50 ($186.00 if repositioning equipment, a fold-down light bar or an extra operator is needed); Medium $335.00; Heavy $430.50. A fuel surcharge may apply.

Max Storage Fee

Regulated by LA PSC (per day, eff. 4/1/2026): Outside $34.00/day; Covered $40.50/day; Oversize $61.50/day. Gate fee max $64.50.

Signage Required

Yes

Police Notification

Required

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Key Towing Laws in Louisiana

PSC Regulation

The Louisiana Public Service Commission regulates towing companies, sets maximum rates, and handles complaints.

RS 32:1736

Louisiana Revised Statutes governing vehicle towing, including licensing and operational requirements.

New Orleans Specific Rules

The City of New Orleans has additional towing regulations and an auto pound system.

Hurricane/Storm Provisions

Special towing rules may apply during declared emergencies and hurricane events.

Notification & Signage Requirements

Police Notification

After a non-consensual tow from private property, the storage facility must notify the sheriff or municipal police of the area it was towed from within twenty-four hours. (La. R.S. 32:1718)

Signage Requirements

Property owners who tow unauthorized vehicles must place approved State Police (TRU) signs in clearly visible spots at the entrances and exits warning that unauthorized vehicles may be towed; reserved or restricted spaces must also be marked. (La. R.S. 32:1736, as amended by Act 440 of 2026)

Your Rights in Louisiana

  • Right to PSC-regulated maximum rates
  • Right to notification of tow location
  • Right to release as soon as you pay (unless a police hold or lienholder rule applies), with no gate fee during normal business hours
  • Right to personal property access
  • Right to file PSC complaints

How to File a Complaint in Louisiana

Complaint Agency

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

Louisiana Public Service Commission

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. To file a formal complaint, contact the Louisiana Public Service Commission.
  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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who regulates towing in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Public Service Commission regulates towing companies, sets maximum rates, and investigates complaints. They license tow operators and can revoke licenses for violations.
What are the towing fee limits in Louisiana?
The PSC sets maximum rates that vary by vehicle type and service. Contact the PSC or check their website for current rate schedules.
What happens to towed cars during hurricanes in Louisiana?
During declared emergencies, special rules may apply. Vehicles may be moved to clear evacuation routes. Contact local emergency management for specific procedures during storm events.

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