New Rules for Tow Truck Operators/Owners Implemented

On January 12, the Board of County Commissioners adopted new rules for tow truck operators/owners to protect the public from unregulated operators that have left individuals stranded and frustrated with  almost no legal recourse.  The main objectives of the amended ordinance are to require all towing companies in the county to be licensed and meet minimum safety, insurance and operating rules.

In order to obtain the license, tow truck drivers must pass a criminal and driving background check.  In addition, all tow trucks will be required to display a county decal showing they meet county standards and all drivers will be required to wear an ID badge identifying their employer.

The new ordinance also includes a maximum rate for vehicles towed for illegal parking. It is recommended that motorists request to see the tow truck operator ’s county-issued ID badge and also confirm the county license number posted on their vehicle before letting their car be towed.

Prior to the adoption of these changes, the ordinance only regulated companies that performed non-consent tows (e.g. police directed tows at accident and crime scenes or removal of illegally parked vehicles on private property).   Consequently, county officials and industry observers have noted a considerable number of unlicensed towing companies that are operating with little or no insurance while utilizing unsafe vehicles or equipment.  The County Attorney’s office has issued an opinion that regulating all commercial towing companies/vehicles in Palm Beach County is consistent with state and federal regulations.

Additionally, the Sheriff ’s office reported that many local towing companies have hired drivers with extensive criminal records.  Since these drivers have considerable contact with the public and frequently provide transportation to stranded motorists, it was determined that a criminal background check would be in the best interest of the public’s safety. 
Some other revisions addressed in the ordinance include expedited release of towed vehicles, full disclosure of all costs involved, options on the destination of the towed vehicle (other than the storage yard used by the towing company) and reimbursement of any overcharges to the vehicle owner.

Again, the above-referenced measures were to taken to ensure good business practice by the towing industry and to protect the consumer. Please contact me if I can be of assistance or if you have any comments and/or suggestions.   I can be contacted at sabrams@pbcgov.org or at my office at 561-355-2204 (West Palm Beach) or 561-276-1220 (Delray Beach).  Please visit my Web site at http://www.pbcgov.com/countycommissioners/district4/ for updates and links to county divisions and other governmental agencies.