Key Towing Laws in Maine
Title 29-A - Vehicle Towing
Maine statutes governing towing procedures, licensing, and consumer protections.
Private Property Authorization
Property owners must authorize tows from private property.
Winter Towing Considerations
Additional rules apply for vehicles towed during winter storms and snow emergencies.
Licensing Requirements
Tow operators must be properly licensed and insured in Maine.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
The business holding the car (the premises owner or its agent) must notify the Secretary of State in writing, on the state form, that it has the car (29-A §1854). If it notifies more than 14 days after receiving the car, or not at all, it may collect no more than 14 days of storage (29-A §1857).
Signage Requirements
No statewide requirement; Maine has no statute requiring private property owners to post tow-away warning signs before a non-consensual tow. Sign requirements may be set locally, and statewide rules are under proposed reform as of 2026.
Your Rights in Maine
- Right to a mailed notice from the Secretary of State, once the holder reports the car, listing the charges to pay and the date title passes
- Right to take your personal effects (such as medications, clothing, mail and child car seats) without first paying towing and storage charges
- Right to choose destination for consensual tows
- Right to file complaints
How to File a Complaint in Maine
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Maine Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
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 Maine Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
- 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 Maine Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Maine's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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