Tow operators in Milwaukee need a city tow truck operator license under Code Ch. 84, must follow Wis. Stat. §349.13 nonconsensual-tow rules, and post maximum rates set by Wisconsin DATCP and city schedule.
Milwaukee Code Ch. 84 requires every business engaged in towing for hire within the city to hold a tow truck operator license, with each truck and driver registered. Wis. Stat. §349.13 governs nonconsensual towing from private property, requiring posted signage, photographic documentation, and notice to police before towing begins. Wis. Stat. §218.205 and DATCP rules cap maximum hookup, mileage, and storage charges and require itemized invoices. Milwaukee maintains an MPD-approved rotation list for police-ordered tows. Owners reclaiming vehicles must be allowed during posted hours and accept at least one common payment method per state law. Predatory towing complaints are investigated by DATCP and the City Clerk.
Towing without proper signage, exceeding rate caps, refusing card payment for retrieval, blocking owner access, or operating without the city license brings fines, license loss, and DATCP consumer-protection action.
See how Milwaukee's towing companies rules stack up against other locations.
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