Key Towing Laws in Oregon
ORS 98.810-818 - Private Property Towing
Comprehensive regulations for non-consensual towing from private property including rate caps and signage requirements.
Locally Set Rates (ORS 98.859)
Maximum non-consensual tow and storage rates are set by city or county ordinance under ORS 98.859. The Oregon Department of Transportation does not set these rates.
Portland Specific Rules
City of Portland has additional towing ordinances and consumer protections.
Vehicle Owner Presence
If the vehicle owner is present, the tow operator must give them the opportunity to remove the vehicle.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
To keep its lien, the tower must tell local law enforcement where the car is within one hour after placing it in storage. For an Oregon-registered car, the tower may not charge storage after three business days unless it mailed or gave actual notice to the owner and each titled interest holder within that time. (ORS 98.812)
Signage Requirements
A sign displayed in plain view at the parking facility must use clear and conspicuous language prohibiting or restricting public parking before a non-consensual tow may proceed. (ORS 98.854(1)(a))
Your Rights in Oregon
- Right not to pay more than the tower's disclosed prices, or your city or county's maximum rates where set (ORS 98.854)
- Right to free release if you are present before hookup is complete; after hookup, no more than the listed hookup fee (ORS 98.853)
- Right to notice by mail or directly within three business days of storage, or no storage charges after that (Oregon-registered cars, ORS 98.812)
- Right to personal property access
- Right to file complaints with the Oregon Department of Justice
How to File a Complaint in Oregon
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Oregon State Board of Towing
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 Oregon State Board of Towing.
- 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.
- ORS 98.859 - Maximum rates set by each city or county
oregon.public.law
- ORS 98.854 - Signage requirement
oregon.public.law
Regulated by Oregon State Board of Towing.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Oregon's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
Check your tow bill
Dispute towing fees