Key Towing Laws in Utah
Utah Code 72-9
Utah code governing vehicle towing operations and consumer protections.
Salt Lake City Regulations
SLC has specific towing ordinances with additional consumer protections.
Vehicle Release Requirements
Tow companies must release vehicles during business hours with proper documentation.
Operator Licensing
Tow operators must maintain proper licensing and insurance.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
Police notification required for non-consensual tows.
Signage Requirements
Each entrance must have a clearly visible sign in the state format: 24 x 18 inches, "Towing Enforced", who may park, the tow company's or owner's name and phone number, and "tow.utah.gov". Without such signs, a car may be towed only 24 hours after a written notice is put on it. Fire lanes, disabled stalls and gated lots are exempt (Utah Code 72-9-603).
Your Rights in Utah
- Right to notification of tow
- Right to have your car released within one hour of your call, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, after a private-property tow done without your consent (an after-hours fee up to $75 may apply)
- Right to take life-essential items (such as medication, ID, child seats and coats) during normal business hours before paying, and other unattached belongings once the towing fee is paid, unless the car is held as evidence
- Right to written receipt
- Right to file consumer protection complaints
How to File a Complaint in Utah
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Utah Department of Transportation, Motor Carrier 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 Utah Department of Transportation, Motor Carrier 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.
- UDOT 2026 Non-Consent Towing Fee Schedule (exact dollar caps; extracted from downloaded PDF)
connect.udot.utah.gov · PDF
Regulated by Utah Department of Transportation, Motor Carrier Division.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Utah's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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