Private Property Towing Agreement: What It Is and Why You Need One

Private property towing is the practice of towing away vehicles parked illegally on private property. Property owners and managers have the right to control who can park on their property, and towing is one way to enforce those rules. However, towing is regulated by state and local laws, and property owners must follow certain procedures and obtain the necessary permits to tow vehicles legally.

One important step is to have a private property towing agreement in place. This is a contract between the property owner or manager and a towing company, outlining the terms and conditions of the towing services. The agreement should include the following:

1. Authorized parking areas: The agreement should specify the areas where parking is allowed and the areas where it is prohibited. This helps to avoid confusion and ensures that only vehicles parked in unauthorized areas are towed.

2. Notification requirements: The agreement should state how and when the property owner or manager must notify the towing company of a violation. This can include posting signs, sending notices, or making phone calls.

3. Tow fees: The agreement should outline the fees charged for towing and storage of towed vehicles. It should also specify the payment methods accepted by the towing company.

4. Liability and insurance: The agreement should include provisions for liability and insurance coverage in case of damage to the towed vehicle or property during the towing process.

5. Compliance with local laws: The agreement should ensure that the towing company complies with all relevant state and local laws, including those governing towing, storage, and notification requirements.

Having a private property towing agreement in place is essential for protecting property owners and managers from liability and ensuring that towing is done legally and fairly. It also helps to avoid disputes and misunderstandings between property owners and towing companies.

In addition to the towing agreement, property owners and managers should also post clear signage indicating where parking is allowed and prohibited. This can help to deter illegal parking and ensure that drivers are aware of the rules.

If you are a property owner or manager who is considering private property towing, it is important to work with a reputable and licensed towing company and to have a written agreement in place. By doing so, you can avoid legal issues, protect your property, and ensure that parking rules are enforced fairly and effectively.