Key Towing Laws in Virginia
VA Code 46.2-1231
Virginia code governing non-consensual towing including requirements for property owners and tow operators.
Towing Advisory Board
Local towing advisory boards set rates and oversee towing operations in their jurisdictions.
Northern Virginia Regulations
Fairfax, Arlington, and other Northern VA counties have specific towing rate schedules.
Vehicle Damage Liability
Tow operators are liable for damage caused during the towing process.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
Tow operator must notify law enforcement "forthwith" (immediately/without delay) after towing a vehicle without owner consent. Owner notification is handled through the law-enforcement report and DMV process. (Va. Code § 46.2-1231)
Signage Requirements
Signs must be posted clearly and conspicuously at all entrances to the lot, stating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed/immobilized and including a contact phone number. No specific size, company name, or address required by state statute. (Va. Code § 46.2-1231)
Your Rights in Virginia
- Right to locally regulated maximum rates
- Right to have law enforcement notified of the tow immediately (call police to locate your vehicle)
- Right to vehicle damage claims
- Right to personal property access
- Right to itemized receipt
- Right to dispute through local towing board
How to File a Complaint in Virginia
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
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.
- Contact the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services 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.
- Code of Virginia § 46.2-1233.1 (Limitation on charges for towing and storage)
law.lis.virginia.gov
- Code of Virginia § 46.2-1233 (Localities may regulate towing fees)
law.lis.virginia.gov
- Code of Virginia § 46.2-1231 (Signage & notification for trespass tows)
law.lis.virginia.gov
Regulated by Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Virginia's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
Towing Costs in Virginia
Average towing costs in Virginia range from $85 to $160 for a local tow.