Key Towing Laws in Massachusetts
MGL Chapter 266 Section 120D
Governs non-consensual towing from private property including rate caps and consumer protections.
Division of Standards Oversight
State agency regulates tow rates, licenses operators, and investigates complaints.
Boston-Specific Rules
City of Boston has additional towing ordinances and a dedicated tow hearing process.
Storage Facility Standards
Tow yards must meet specific requirements for security, lighting, and access.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
Before a private-property tow, the person controlling the property must notify the police chief (in Boston, the police commissioner), in writing unless told otherwise, with the addresses, plate number and tow company. Without full compliance, the car must be released with no towing or storage charge. (M.G.L. c. 266, § 120D)
Signage Requirements
Before a car is towed from private property, the driver must have been told not to park there, either directly or by a posted notice, by the person controlling the property (M.G.L. c. 266, § 120D).
Your Rights in Massachusetts
- Right to state-regulated maximum rates
- Right to ask for release for half the usual towing fee if you return before the tow is completed; the company may agree (M.G.L. c. 266, § 120D)
- Right to a Boston Parking Clerk hearing if towed from a Boston street (not for private-lot tows or tows for five or more overdue tickets)
- Right to personal property access
- Right to pay by credit card
- Right to file Division of Standards complaints
How to File a Complaint in Massachusetts
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities, Transportation Oversight 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 Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities, Transportation Oversight 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.
- M.G.L. c. 159B, § 6B - statutory authority + $35 storage cap
malegislature.gov
Regulated by Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities, Transportation Oversight Division.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Massachusetts's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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