Union City, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Rotation list size
- Up to 3 operators
- Franchise term
- 5-year terms
- Fees
- Franchise fee required
- Selection method
- RFP every 5 years
Summary
Union City requires tow operators to hold a City franchise agreement before performing police-ordered towing; unauthorized towing without one is unlawful under Chapter 10.17.
Except as specified in this title, it is unlawful for any person to solicit or perform the business of police towing in the City unless a franchise agreement therefor has first been entered into pursuant to the provisions of this chapter and such franchise agreement is in full force and effect. This chapter shall not apply to towing, repair or storage services performed for or made available to members of the public by any person.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4940544; v16 updated 2026-06-23).
Full Breakdown
Union City's Chapter 10.17 sets up a nonexclusive police-towing franchise system: the Chief of Police issues a request for proposals every five years to fill up to three rotation-list openings, and only operators under an active City Council-approved franchise agreement may solicit or perform police-ordered towing. Franchise agreements set minimum standards for drivers, equipment, storage, insurance, and response times, and require operators to pay a franchise fee plus regular business license taxes. Franchisees must open their trucks, storage facility, and tow records to Chief of Police inspection at any time.
Violations & Fines
Soliciting or performing police towing without an active City franchise is a Municipal Code violation; noncompliant franchisees also risk removal from the rotation list and denial of reinstatement for one year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any tow company perform police-ordered tows in Union City?
How long does a Union City towing franchise last?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Union City
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