Franklin County, WA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Appointing authority
- Board of County Commissioners (TRAC lots: TRAC manager)
- Registration required
- Chapter 46.55 RCW
- Tagging period before tow
- 24 hours minimum
- Notice deadline to owner
- Within 24 hours of impound
- Governing section
- Franklin County Code § 10.12.140
Summary
Franklin County only allows towing operators appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, or by the TRAC general manager for TRAC lots, to remove illegally parked vehicles. Franklin County Code § 10.12.140 requires that appointment, and every tow must be performed by an operator registered under Chapter 46.55 RCW.
Franklin County, in exercising its authority to impound vehicles illegally parked pursuant to this chapter, may remove vehicles through towing operators appointed by the board of county commissioners or the general manager of TRAC. The latter shall only have such authority with respect to illegally parked vehicles at the TRAC parking areas.
Full Breakdown
12, except within the TRAC parking areas, where the TRAC general manager appoints the tow operator instead. 55 RCW, Washington's vehicle impoundment statute. 070. 130(C) requires the vehicle be tagged for removal by a law enforcement officer at least 24 hours before impoundment, unless it is a hazard or part of an accident. 120, and to give a written notice of the right of redemption with the towing and storage invoice at the time of release. 130(F).
Violations & Fines
An unregistered or unappointed tow operator has no authority to remove a vehicle under Franklin County's parking enforcement chapter, and towing without the required Chapter 46.55 RCW registration or Board/TRAC appointment falls outside § 10.12.140. A vehicle owner may request a hearing on the validity of an impound under § 10.12.150, conducted in Franklin County District Court or before a county-designated administrative hearings officer, and the vehicle is not released until the owner pays the district court's parking violation penalties plus the towing and storage charges owed the operator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can legally tow an illegally parked vehicle in Franklin County?
Can a tow company tow my car from private property on its own?
How do I get my towed vehicle back?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Franklin County
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