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San Bernardino County, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: California Vehicle Code →

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Key Facts

Lead agency: SBC Sheriff
Rate caps: CVC 22651.07
Hearing right: Post-storage review
Appeals: Owner request available

These county ordinances apply to of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Tow operators that perform police-initiated tows in unincorporated San Bernardino County must hold a Sheriff rotation tow contract and follow California Vehicle Code rate posting and storage rules.

Full Breakdown

The Sheriff maintains a rotation tow program with vetted operators that respond to crashes, abandoned vehicles, and law enforcement calls in unincorporated areas. Operators must meet California Highway Patrol rotation standards, carry adequate insurance, and operate compliant storage yards. California Vehicle Code section 22651 governs when a vehicle may be removed, while sections 22850 and 22651.07 cap nonconsensual tow and storage fees and require detailed receipts. Vehicle owners can appeal tows through a post-storage hearing.

Violations & Fines

Charging excess fees, refusing post-storage hearings, or operating without rotation approval can lead to contract termination and consumer protection penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I challenge a tow from unincorporated SBC?

Request a post-storage hearing in writing within 10 days of the tow notice; the Sheriff or storage facility must hold a hearing under California Vehicle Code section 22852.

Are tow fees capped in San Bernardino County?

Yes. Nonconsensual tow rates are governed by California Vehicle Code section 22651.07 and the Sheriff rotation contract, which set maximum towing, storage, and ancillary fees.

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San Bernardino County, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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