Detroit-authorized tow companies must hold a DPD towing permit, follow rotation lists, comply with state Towing and Wrecker Act caps, and store impounded vehicles at approved yards with regulated release fees.
Detroit operates a regulated police-authorized towing rotation administered by Detroit Police Department. Tow operators must hold a city Business License plus a separate DPD towing permit, with vehicle inspections, driver background checks, and insurance bonds. The Michigan Vehicle Code, MCL 257.252a, governs nonconsensual tow notice, accident scene towing, and storage rates. Detroit caps drop fees and storage charges, requires receipt issuance, and bars predatory towing from private lots without proper signage. Owners may dispute tows through 36th District Court. The 2024 reforms require photographic documentation before tow truck hookup on private property tows.
Predatory towing, unauthorized rotation list operation, or excess fees trigger DPD permit suspension, refunds with treble damages under Michigan Consumer Protection Act, and city Business License revocation for repeat violators.
See how Detroit's towing companies rules stack up against other locations.
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