Key Towing Laws in Rhode Island
DPUC Rate Regulation
Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers sets maximum towing rates.
RIGL 31-41.1
Rhode Island general laws governing non-consensual towing from private property.
Providence Specific Rules
City of Providence has additional towing regulations.
Licensing Requirements
All tow operators must be licensed and comply with state regulations.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
The tower must notify the local police within 2 hours of removing an abandoned or unattended vehicle, and the registered owner within 7 days and known lienholders within 14 days by registered mail. If it misses the owner deadline, it cannot charge the owner storage that accrues until notice is sent. (RIGL 39-12.1-4; 815-RICR-50-05-1 §1.13)
Signage Requirements
No statewide requirement to post tow-away warning signs on private property. Statute requires only that the impound lot post its business hours on the outside of its office. (RIGL 39-12.1-12(a); RICR §1.13.1(A)(3))
Your Rights in Rhode Island
- Right to regulated maximum rates
- Right to notification of tow
- Right to personal property access
- Right to itemized receipt
- Right to file DPUC complaints
How to File a Complaint in Rhode Island
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
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 Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.
- 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.
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-12.1-12 (Towing Storage Act, private trespass towing)
webserver.rilegislature.gov
Regulated by Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Rhode Island's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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