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

Towing Laws in Texas

Max tow:$272Max storage:$22.85/day

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 Texas (TX).

Key Towing Laws in Texas

Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2308

Comprehensive state-level towing regulations including licensing, rate caps, and consumer protections.

TDLR Rate Schedule

TDLR sets maximum rates for non-consensual tows: $272 for light-duty vehicles (10,000 lbs or less), higher for medium and heavy-duty (16 TAC 86.455).

Vehicle Owner Presence Rule

If the vehicle owner returns before the tow truck leaves the property, the vehicle must be released for no more than the TDLR-set maximum drop fee (16 TAC 86.455).

Boot Ban

Texas has banned vehicle immobilization (booting) on private property, replacing it with regulated towing.

Credit Card Requirement

All licensed tow companies must accept at least one major credit card. Cash-only operations violate TDLR rules.

Notification & Signage Requirements

Police Notification

Police notification required within 2 hours. Written notice to vehicle owner within 5 days.

Signage Requirements

Min 18x24 in., weather-resistant; must include international towing symbol, enforcement hours, 24-hr locator number, and unauthorized-vehicles-will-be-towed notice; posted at each entrance. (Occ. Code Sec. 2308.301)

Your Rights in Texas

Right to TDLR-regulated maximum tow rates ($272 light-duty)
Right to vehicle release for no more than the TDLR-set drop fee if present before departure
Right to pay by credit card
Right to 5-day written notification of tow
Right to personal property access without charge during business hours
Right to an itemized receipt
Right to file TDLR complaints online
Right to pursue triple damages for illegal tows

How to File a Complaint in Texas

Complaint Agency

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

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

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 Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) 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.

TDLR Towing Consumer Information
tdlr.texas.gov
TDLR VSF Fees
tdlr.texas.gov
16 Texas Administrative Code Section 86.455 (Private Property Tow Fees) - Cornell LII
law.cornell.edu

Regulated by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

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

Towing Costs in Texas

Average towing costs in Texas range from $75 to $145 for a local tow.

View Texas Towing Costs Calculate Your Towing Cost Texas impound & storage fees What to do with an abandoned or junk vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum towing fee in Texas?

Texas TDLR sets the maximum non-consensual tow fee at $272 for light-duty vehicles (10,000 lbs or less) under 16 TAC 86.455. Medium-duty is $380, and heavy-duty is $489 per unit. Storage fees are regulated at approximately $20-$25 per day. These rates are updated periodically.

What happens if I catch the tow truck in the act in Texas?

Under Texas law, if you return to your vehicle before the tow truck has left the property, the operator must release your vehicle. They can charge only a limited drop fee set by TDLR (16 TAC 86.455). If they refuse, call the police and file a TDLR complaint.

Can I sue for an illegal tow in Texas?

Yes. Under Texas Occupations Code 2308.404, you can pursue up to triple damages for illegal towing. This includes the tow fee, storage fees, and any related costs. You can file in justice court (small claims) without an attorney.

Are boot/clamps legal in Texas?

No. Texas banned vehicle immobilization (booting) on private property effective September 2021. Only regulated towing is permitted. If your vehicle is booted on private property, report it to TDLR.