Towing Laws in New Jersey (2026): Max Fees & Your Rights

Towing Laws in New Jersey

Max tow:$125Max storage:$30

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

Reviewed July 6, 2026 by Daniel Richardson

Know your rights: towing regulations, maximum fees, and consumer protections in New Jersey (NJ).

Key Towing Laws in New Jersey

NJSA 56:13-7

New Jersey consumer protection statutes applicable to towing operations.

Municipal Rate Setting

Each municipality in NJ sets its own maximum towing and storage rates through local ordinance.

Towing Advisory Board

Many NJ municipalities have towing advisory boards that oversee practices and set rates.

Credit Card Requirement

Licensed tow companies in NJ must accept major credit cards for payment.

Notification & Signage Requirements

Police Notification

Police must authorize the tow. The towing company must notify the owner, operator, lessor, and lienholder within 30 days; failure to notify caps total storage charges at $750. (N.J.S.A. 56:13-16)

Signage Requirements

Signs must be posted at each entrance with company name, phone, address, and fees.

Your Rights in New Jersey

Right to municipally-regulated maximum rates
Right to pay by credit card
Right to 30-day written notification
Right to personal property access
Right to itemized receipt
Right to file Division of Consumer Affairs complaints

How to File a Complaint in New Jersey

Complaint Agency

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

New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs

Visit Website

Steps 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.
Contact the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs to file a formal complaint.
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.

N.J.A.C. 13:45A-31.4 (fee schedule), 31.5 (unreasonable fees), 31.6 (private property & signage) - NJ Division of Consumer Affairs, Chapter 45A Subchapter 31
njconsumeraffairs.gov · PDF
N.J.S.A. 56:13-16 (30-day notice, $750 storage cap) - Predatory Towing Prevention Act as amended by P.L. 2023 c.132
njconsumeraffairs.gov · PDF
P.L. 2023 c.132 (approved Aug 7, 2023) - NJ Legislature
pub.njleg.state.nj.us · PDF

Regulated by New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

Last reviewed July 6, 2026 by Daniel Richardson against New Jersey's official state statutes and regulator schedules.

Towing Costs in New Jersey

Average towing costs in New Jersey range from $100 to $190 for a local tow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the towing rates in New Jersey?

NJ towing rates are set by each municipality. Typical rates range from $125-$250 for standard tows. Contact your local municipal clerk office for the official rate schedule in your area.

Can tow companies in NJ refuse credit cards?

No. Licensed tow companies in New Jersey are required to accept major credit cards. If a company demands cash only, report them to the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.

How do I dispute a tow in New Jersey?

File a complaint with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs. You can also contact your municipal towing advisory board. Keep all documentation including receipts, photos, and communications.