Key Towing Laws in West Virginia
PSC Rate Regulation
West Virginia Public Service Commission regulates towing rates for non-consensual tows.
WV Code 17C-17A
West Virginia code governing towing operations and consumer protections.
Mountain Terrain Provisions
Additional charges may be permitted for towing in difficult mountain terrain.
Licensing Requirements
All tow operators must be licensed by the PSC.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
Law enforcement notification required for non-consensual tows.
Signage Requirements
No statewide requirement for property owners to post tow-away warning signs before removing unauthorized vehicles; W. Va. Code 17C-14-13 contains no posted-sign prerequisite. (W. Va. Code 17C-14-13)
Your Rights in West Virginia
- Right to PSC-regulated maximum rates
- Right to notification of tow
- Right to personal property access
- Right to itemized receipt
- Right to file PSC complaints
How to File a Complaint in West Virginia
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
West Virginia Public Service Commission
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 West Virginia Public Service Commission 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.
Regulated by West Virginia Public Service Commission.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against West Virginia's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
Towing Costs in West Virginia
Average towing costs in West Virginia range from $70 to $130 for a local tow.