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.
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.
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.
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