Livermore, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Franchise required
- Nonexclusive City franchise, LMC Ch. 5.44
- Granting authority
- Livermore City Council via RFP
- Scope
- Nonconsensual police tows only
- Franchise agreement deadline
- Signed within 30 days of selection
- Suspension appeal
- Over 30 days appealable, Ch. 1.22
- Transfer
- Not assignable without Council consent
Summary
Livermore requires a City franchise before any company can perform nonconsensual police-ordered tows under LMC Chapter 5.44. The City Council grants nonexclusive franchises through a competitive RFP process, charges a franchise fee set by resolution, and runs a rotational call list maintained by the Police Chief; the rule does not touch owner-requested or private-property towing.
Except as specified in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to solicit or perform the business of nonconsensual police towing services 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. This chapter shall not apply to towing, repair, or storage services performed for or made available to members of the public directly, when not in response to police department requests.
Full Breakdown
030 makes it unlawful to solicit or perform nonconsensual police towing services in Livermore without both a City-granted franchise and an executed written franchise agreement; the chapter expressly does not reach towing requested directly by vehicle owners or private property owners. 060 requires the Police Chief to solicit proposals through a published RFP that discloses each towing company's ownership, vehicle and license-plate list, personnel and driver's license numbers, and proof of insurance. 080). 110). 140). 150). 120).
Violations & Fines
Performing nonconsensual police-ordered towing in Livermore without a franchise and a signed franchise agreement violates § 5.44.030. The Police Chief may issue a notice of temporary suspension stating the dates and basis for suspending a franchisee that violates the agreement, this chapter, or any law; a franchisee may not sell, assign or transfer its franchise without City Council consent, and a suspension exceeding 30 days is appealable under Chapter 1.22 LMC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any tow company respond to a Livermore police tow request?
Does this franchise requirement cover a tow I request myself?
Can Livermore revoke a tow franchise?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Livermore
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