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

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

State law
TX Occupations Code Ch. 2308
City code
SAMC Chapter 19
Light-duty cap
About $272 nonconsent tow
Hearing window
14 days to contest
Signage required
Every private-lot entrance

Summary

San Antonio towing companies must hold a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation license under Occupations Code Chapter 2308 plus a city wrecker permit under SAMC Chapter 19. Nonconsent tow rates are capped, signage is required at every lot entrance, and storage fees are limited.

(a) Unless the person holds an appropriate license under this subchapter, a person may not:(1) perform towing operations; or(2) operate a towing company.(b) Unless prohibited by a local authority under Section 2308.2085, a person may:(1) perform booting operations; and(2) operate a booting company. Added by

Source: TX Occupations Ch. 2308 + SAMC Ch. 19View official code

Full Breakdown

Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2308 governs both consent and nonconsent towing in San Antonio. Tow operators and tow trucks need TDLR licenses, drug-tested drivers, insurance, and posted rate sheets. SAMC Chapter 19 layers a San Antonio wrecker permit issued by Development Services for any wrecker operating within city limits. Nonconsent tows from private property require visible signage at each entrance with the towing company name, phone, and rate. San Antonio caps maximum nonconsent tow charges by ordinance, currently around $272 for a light-duty private-property tow, plus daily storage limits set by the city. Drivers may request a tow hearing within 14 days under Section 2308.452 in Bexar County justice court, with prevailing owners recovering fees.

Violations & Fines

Towing without a TDLR license, exceeding posted nonconsent rate caps, missing required signage, or refusing access during business hours triggers TDLR fines up to $5,000 per violation, San Antonio permit revocation, and consumer refund orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can a San Antonio tow company charge for a nonconsent tow?
San Antonio caps nonconsent private-property tows at roughly $272 for a light-duty vehicle plus regulated storage fees. Charges above the posted rate violate SAMC Chapter 19 and trigger TDLR fines and consumer refunds.
How do I contest a tow in San Antonio?
File a tow hearing request with a Bexar County justice court within 14 days under Texas Occupations Code Section 2308.452. If probable cause was lacking, the tow company refunds fees and you recover court costs.

Sources & Official References

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