Key Towing Laws in Washington
WSP/DOL Rate Cap (RCW 46.55.118)
Washington caps non-consensual tow and storage charges at 135% of the WSP-negotiated Class A rate, set annually by the WSP/DOL (not the UTC), under RCW 46.55.118 and WAC 204-91A-140.
RCW 46.55
Washington Revised Code governing vehicle towing operations, licensing, and consumer protections.
Seattle-Specific Rules
City of Seattle has additional towing ordinances and enforcement procedures.
Impound Hearing Rights
Vehicle owners can request an impound hearing within 10 days to contest the tow.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
Immediate phone/radio notice to law enforcement at time of impound; written or electronic notice to law enforcement within 24 hours; first-class mail notice to last known registered and legal owners within 24 hours. (RCW 46.55.100, 46.55.110)
Signage Requirements
On nonresidential private property or in a public parking facility, a vehicle parked for less than 24 hours may be towed only if a sign near each entrance clearly shows the times vehicles may be impounded and the towing firm's name, phone number, and address. Residential property is exempt (RCW 46.55.070).
Your Rights in Washington
- Right, for private impounds, to tow and storage rates no higher than 135% of the State Patrol's rates (not police impounds)
- Right to a court hearing on the impound or charges, if your written request reaches the court within 10 days of the notice
- Right to 24-hour written notification
- Right to personal property access
- Right to pay by credit card
- Right to file UTC complaints
How to File a Complaint in Washington
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Washington State Department of Licensing
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 Washington State Department of Licensing.
- 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.
Regulated by Washington State Department of Licensing.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Washington's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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