Lubbock, TX Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- Article 24.09, Tow Truck Services
- Permit issuer
- City; police department keeps list
- Consent-only state permit
- Not valid for nonconsent tows
- State overlay
- Occ. Code Ch. 2308; 16 TAC 86
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor plus agency penalties
Summary
In Lubbock you cannot perform a nonconsent (police-ordered or private-property) tow without a valid city tow truck service permit. The police department keeps the permitted list and runs Class I and Class II rotation, and only city-contracted haulers have regulated rates.
(a) The city may contract with one or more tow truck businesses to perform nonconsent tows on behalf of the police department. Such contracts shall be awarded on the basis of competitive bids or competitive proposals. (b) The police department shall establish and maintain a list of tow truck businesses that have a valid permit to perform nonconsent tows. The department may also establish and maintain class I and class II tow truck rotation lists. ... in no event will the city secretary or the police department establish or attempt to regulate the rates which may be charged by a tow truck business other than a business with whom the city has contracted...
Full Breakdown
Lubbock Code of Ordinances Article 24.09 makes it unlawful to perform nonconsent tows inside the city without a valid tow truck service permit; a state consent-only permit does not qualify. Under § 24.09.008 the police department maintains the permitted-hauler list plus Class I and Class II rotation lists, and the city awards nonconsent contracts by competitive bid or proposal. Applicants file their intended rates in writing with the city secretary. Every operator also works under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2308 and TDLR rules (16 TAC Ch. 86), which cap nonconsent tow and storage fees statewide. Violating Article 24.09 is a misdemeanor fine plus TDLR administrative penalties.
Violations & Fines
Performing a nonconsent tow without a city permit is a misdemeanor fined under § 1.01.004, on top of administrative penalties from the chief of police, TxDOT, or TDLR. Each day is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a city permit to tow in Lubbock?
Who sets nonconsent tow and storage fees?
How do I get on the police tow rotation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lubbock
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