Independence, MO Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 18.25.204, Prohibited Acts
- Consent required
- owner or operator authorization needed
- License required
- business license required under § 18.25.300
- Penalty
- $250-$500 fine or jail
- Administered by
- Community Development Director
Summary
Independence bars tow operators from moving or towing a vehicle from a street or public property without the owner's express authorization or a law enforcement directive.
It shall be unlawful for the owner or operator of a tow vehicle to: ... (3) Move any vehicle from a highway, street or public property without the express authorization of the owner or operator of the vehicle or a law enforcement officer or public agency pursuant to that agency's procedures. (4) Tow any vehicle from a highway, street or public property to a location not authorized by the owner of the towed vehicle or member of the Police Department or other public agency.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 13).
Full Breakdown
Independence City Code § 18.25.204 makes it unlawful for a tow vehicle owner or operator to move or tow a vehicle from a highway, street or public property without the express authorization of the vehicle's owner or operator, or without direction from a law enforcement officer or public agency. Tow service businesses must also hold a City business license under § 18.25.300 and comply with Article 25's tow-rotation, insurance, receipt, and record-keeping rules administered by the Community Development Director. Violating the article carries a fine of $250.00 to $500.00 or up to 180 days imprisonment, or both, under § 18.25.202.
Violations & Fines
Towing or moving a vehicle without owner authorization or law-enforcement direction violates Article 25 and is punishable by a $250-$500 fine, up to 180 days in jail, or both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tow truck move my car from a public street without my permission in Independence?
Do towing companies need a license to operate in Independence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Independence
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