Fullerton, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Franchises citywide
- 1 to 3 operators
- Rebid cycle
- at least every 10 years
- Yard/office location
- within 5 miles of City Hall
- Liability insurance
- $1,000,000 combined single limit
- Improper early release penalty
- $250-$1,000 fine and/or 6 months jail
- General violation
- misdemeanor, each day separate
Summary
Fullerton's Police Department dispatches only franchised tow operators for police-initiated tows: vehicle impounds and no-preference tows, such as an accident-scene tow where the driver has no preferred company. City Council awards one to three citywide franchises, and running a police tow business without one is a misdemeanor under FMC Chapter 3.74.
Except as specified in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to solicit or perform the business of police initiated tow operations in the city unless: (A) A franchise therefor has been granted pursuant to the provisions of this chapter and such franchise is in full force and effect; and (B) A written franchise agreement therefor has been executed between such person and the city and such agreement is in full force and effect.
Full Breakdown
020(B)). 025 makes a franchise mandatory before soliciting or performing police tow work. 030(B) requires the franchise to go out for competitive bid at least once every ten years. 035). 050 requires each operator's office and storage yard to sit within a five-mile radius of Fullerton City Hall, 303 W. Commonwealth, subject to Police Chief approval, and bars storing towed vehicles anywhere but the approved location. 060). 140 requires liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 combined single limit plus garage keeper's coverage, with 30 days' notice to the city before cancellation. 150).
Violations & Fines
Operating a police-initiated tow business without a franchise, or violating any Chapter 3.74 provision, is a misdemeanor, with each day of continued violation a separate offense (Section 3.74.160(A)-(B)). Releasing a vehicle held under a 30-day impound or evidence hold without the Chief of Police's written authorization draws a fine of no less than $250 and no more than $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail (Section 3.74.040(A)(5)(i)). The City Attorney can also prosecute the operation as a public nuisance and seek court-ordered abatement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any tow company handle a Fullerton police-ordered tow?
How many towing companies hold Fullerton's police contract?
What happens if a Fullerton tow operator releases my car early?
Does Fullerton's tow franchise chapter cover a private-property tow of my car?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fullerton
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