Pearland, TX Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

Sec. 31-2 makes it unlawful to drive or operate a tow truck on any public street in Pearland for towing wrecked or disabled vehicles for hire without a permit issued under Chapter 31, and proof that an unpermitted tow truck was present at a collision scene is prima facie evidence of the violation. Under Sec. , and, before applying to permit an emergency tow truck, must already hold a valid Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) vehicle storage facility license located within Pearland's city limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction (within 15 miles of the city limits for heavy-duty tow trucks).

The director holds a public hearing on each application and weighs public convenience and necessity under Sec. 31-4, considering the applicant's financial responsibility, number and type of vehicles, effect on traffic congestion, storage facility security, and the criminal history of the owner or operator. Sec. 31-5 sets an annual, nonrefundable permit fee per tow truck, running on a calendar year with all permits expiring December 31, and requires a unique numbered identification tag displayed facing the rear of the truck. Chapter 31 also bans street-side solicitation of towing business: Sec.

31-12 makes it unlawful to solicit towing business on a public street, and presence of a tow operator within 200 feet of a collision or police incident is prima facie evidence of a violation. Tow truck drivers must be 18 or older, hold a valid Texas driver's license, and carry a current TDLR incident management card under Sec. 31-11. Chapter 31 was repealed and reenacted in its entirety by Ord. No. 374-5 on May 13, 2024.