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New Haven, CT Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

License issued by
Chief of police
Expires
April 1 annually
Required insurance
Garage-keeper + garage liability policies
Municipal tower list cap
10 towers maximum

Summary

New Haven requires any vehicle wrecker or towing company to obtain a license from the chief of police before operating in the city, whether hired directly or dispatched to a violation scene.

No tower shall engage in business within the city or offer such service within the city without first obtaining a license from the chief of police or his designee.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 31 | Zoning: Supplement 32).

Full Breakdown

Article V of chapter 29, the "tow truck ordinance", makes it unlawful under section 29-107 for any tower to engage in business or offer towing service in New Haven without a license from the chief of police. Section 29-108 requires applicants to disclose their business address, truck locations and hours, and available storage space; section 29-109 requires garage-keeper and garage-liability insurance policies; and section 29-111 lets the chief issue a license only after finding public convenience and necessity for the service, adequate insurance, and that the applicant and employees are fit and proper. Licenses expire every April 1 and the fee cannot be waived.

Violations & Fines

Operating as a tower in New Haven without a chief-of-police license violates section 29-107 and can carry a fine up to the maximum permitted by statute under section 29-117; overcharging risks license suspension or revocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a tow company need a license to operate in New Haven?
Yes: section 29-107 bars any "tower" from engaging in business or offering towing service in the city without a license from the chief of police.
What must a tow company show to get licensed in New Haven?
Under section 29-111, the chief of police must find the service is needed, required insurance is in place, and the applicant and staff are fit and proper before issuing a license.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in New Haven

All New Haven rules

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