Modesto, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

01 declares that non-consensual towing, defined as towing a vehicle in circumstances that do not require the owner's consent, such as accident tows, parking-violation tows and abandoned-vehicle tows, is a public utility within the meaning of Title 11, Chapter 2 of the Code. 07 requires every such franchise to be granted by ordinance rather than by a simple administrative permit. 02 sets the operating rule: the City Council may award non-exclusive, non-consensual towing franchises, and it is unlawful for any person to engage in the business of non-consensual towing within Modesto unless that person is a City employee or agent, or is a party (or the employee or agent of a party) to a franchise agreement the Council has approved.

03 to cover the City's processing costs (with any shortfall billed back to the applicant and any surplus refunded), review and a report from the City Manager, and a public hearing where protests may be filed before the Council votes. 13 lets it continue until surrendered, purchased by the City, or forfeited for non-compliance. 02(d) subjects every franchise to the City Charter, the Modesto Municipal Code, Council resolutions and the California Vehicle Code.