Dallas, TX Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Local code
- Dallas City Code Ch. 18A
- State law
- TX Occupations Code Ch. 2308
- Storage facilities
- TX Occupations Code Ch. 2303
- Nonconsent tows
- Dallas Police rotation list
- Rate caps
- Set by TDLR and Dallas
Summary
Tow operators serving Dallas must hold Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation credentials under Occupations Code Chapter 2308 and comply with Dallas Chapter 18A permitting plus the Dallas Police nonconsent tow rotation list, with strict rate, signage, and consumer-disclosure rules.
Sec. 2308.101. PERMIT REQUIRED. A tow truck may not be used for consent towing or nonconsent towing on a public roadway in this state unless an appropriate permit has been issued for the tow truck under this subchapter. Each tow truck requires a separate permit. Added by
Full Breakdown
Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2308 governs tow trucks, vehicle storage facilities, and tow operators statewide, requiring TDLR licensing for companies, drivers, and storage lots. Dallas adds Chapter 18A registration and a Dallas Police Department rotation list assigning nonconsent tows from accidents and parking enforcement. Private-property impound towing requires posted signage with rate disclosures, photographs of violations, and adherence to maximum fees set by TDLR and the city. Vehicle storage facilities must follow Chapter 2303 release procedures, including notification, towing-fee caps, and lien processes. Drivers must carry incident-management training certifications. Consumers can file complaints with TDLR or the Dallas Permit Bureau, and violations risk license revocation and refunds.
Violations & Fines
Operating without TDLR licensing, failing rotation-list rules, charging above-cap fees, or removing vehicles without proper signage and photographs draws state administrative penalties, refunds to drivers, and Dallas Chapter 18A permit revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who issues tow truck licenses in Texas?
What signage must a Dallas private property require before towing?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
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Towing Companies in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle towing companies.